The second model is where designers are doing “made-to-order” on a smaller more bespoke scale which is a difficult operation to truly scale especially if you include made-to-measure which many of these brands are doing  (sometimes including bespoke colour and fabric too).  

This can take up to three months from order to delivery however if you're going into it with a more sustainable future in mind, and no intention of scaling too much it is a viable option and it could also be a stepping stone to wholesale.

For these designers transparency, ethics and sustainability are what attracts their customers. Some designers even detail exactly how they landed on the cost, including everything from fabric to studio space.

These brands price themselves in that mid-range spot - £50-£250 for a top - expensive enough to ensure fair pay and quality construction, while still being a cheaper option than most designer items on the market.

Even some wholesale brands are now widening their scope by beginning to offer bespoke services alongside their off-the-rack collections.

It's so much more exciting for the customer to know that an item of clothing is being made just for you.   By the time it arrives, you have an emotional connection to that piece, not just a physical one.

The taking of measurements has apparently been successfully done by customers measuring themselves.   Some designers even create their own 'how to' guides which enables brands to reach a global audience and it's where they can scale up since they are no longer limited by the physical location of their customers.

If you want help to apply this to your business below you will find a coupon to receive £300, that's a 75% discount, off Fashion Entrepreneurs Academy's  FASHION BRAND FORMULA  programme.   This is available until 15th November '24.