Are you basing your clothing design on a competitor’s sample?

And feeling weird about it?

There’s a moment on most calls with new brands where I can tell my client is feeling a little uncomfortable. 

It’s that moment when they tell me they’d like to reference a competitor’s sample to make their own design.

They might look away, and they usually clarify that they don’t want to COPY their competitor, it’s just that they like the fit, collar, placket, etc. and don’t want to try to reinvent the wheel.

If you’re new to this, here’s an industry secret for you that I let all my clients in on:

Everyone starts with a competitor’s sample. 

Everyone. 

At least every person and every brand I’ve ever worked with. 

It’s normal, and it’s ok!

You have to start somewhere, and I agree, there’s no reason to reinvent the wheel. 

I’m not talking about knocking off someone else’s design. 

Copycat brands exist and they’re always pale imitations of the original. 

Referencing another brand’s garment is different than copying it. 

First of all, it’s important to be aware of what’s going on in the market. 

But equally important, starting your design with a competitor’s sample speeds up the development process because it helps you communicate what you want. 

Usually it’s the fit, or the stiffness of a collar my client wants to reference, and a physical sample is the best way to communicate this.

Along with their tech pack, I advise my clients to send the sample they’re referencing to their factory, especially if it’s the fit or interfacing (the stuff inside something like a collar that makes it stiffer than the rest of the garment) that they like. 

With any factory, but especially an overseas factory, a physical sample is a great communication tool, making it very easy for the factory to understand what you want.

Starting with a competitor sample can save you and your factory time and make the process of getting to a production ready proto faster.

 Have an idea for a design you want to make?  Let’s chat!