One of the most important stages in apparel production happens between the pre-production sample and bulk manufacturing. While the two should ultimately represent the same finished product, they are created in very different environments—and understanding that difference can help brands set realistic expectations for production. What Is a Pre-Production Sample? A pre-production sample, often called a PP sample, is the … Read More
Your Minimum Order Isn’t the Problem. Your Assortment Might Be.
Unpopular opinion: Most brands don’t have a minimum problem. They have a style and assortment problem. Minimum order quantities are one of the first concerns we hear from brands entering the manufacturing process. The assumption is often that a smaller minimum will make it easier to launch a collection, manage cash flow and reduce inventory risk. While minimums are certainly … Read More
The 5 Mistakes Every First-Time Founder Makes When Launching an Apparel Brand
After more than 30 years in the apparel industry, Stars Design Group has seen countless startups, entrepreneurs, and emerging brands make the same mistakes when launching their first products. The good news? Most of these mistakes are avoidable. For new apparel brands, understanding where things commonly go wrong can save time, money, and a lot of unnecessary stress. Here are … Read More
Scaling Your Apparel Business: When, Why, and How
Growing an apparel brand is exciting, but scaling successfully requires more than increasing production. True scaling means building the systems, supply chain, financial foundation, and operational infrastructure needed to support sustainable growth without sacrificing quality, customer experience, or profitability. Many brands assume it’s time to scale when orders increase or inventory starts selling out. While those can be positive signs, … Read More
Spring/Summer 2027 Trend Forecast: Silhouettes and Fits to Watch
Fashion trends do not emerge overnight. By the time a silhouette becomes widely visible in retail, it has often been influenced by cultural shifts, consumer behavior, runway collections, material innovation, and evolving ideas around how people want to dress. For brands developing Spring/Summer 2027 collections, understanding these shifts early can create an important advantage. Trend forecasting is not about predicting … Read More