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Alison Hoenes Design Turns 4! (Exciting Updates)

Fashion Business, Patternmaking, Sustainability

I get to work with amazing clients and be part of making clothes that fit the lifestyle, values, and bodies of real women. This year has been the busiest yet and I’ve had a lot going on behind the scenes. Today I’m excited to share a few exciting updates about Alison Hoenes Design!

Should You Start Your Brand By Making Pattern Blocks?

Fashion Business, Fit, How To, Industry Basics, Patternmaking, Product Development

I often get asked “should I make pattern blocks for each category before developing and launching my collection?” Blocks and slopers are what we all were taught to start with in fashion. However, I recommend a different approach that gets you testing your market quicker and is more efficient for future development.

Stop Defining The Success Of Your Business Like Fast Fashion

Ethics, Fashion Business, Mindset

Most of us agree that fast fashion is toxic. We see the dangers of fast fashion and are eager to change that mindset about our clothes. But, even once it’s gone from your wardrobe, the fast fashion mindset can still creep into your business.

5 Ways To Become More Ethical In Your Manufacturing

Ethics, Fashion Business, Fashion Resources, Sustainability

Fashion Revolution Week is a big mission and there are many ways to get involved as a brand and as a consumer. Today I want to talk about five things you can do as a fashion brand to become a more ethical manufacturer and be part of that better fashion future.

What Makes Clothing A “Good Fit”

Fit, How To, Product Development

In fashion and especially during product development, we talk alot about fit and making sure designs fit well. We all agree that fit is important and can make or break the success of a design, but what even is a good fit? And, how do you know when you’ve achieved it?

Starting With A Finished Sample Doesn’t Make Pattern Development Cheaper

Industry Basics, Patternmaking, Product Development

With a finished sample already approved, having a pattern made for the garment will be simple and cheap, right? Actually, no, that is most likely not the case. Having a finished sample is great for reference, but isn’t going to save you much money when it comes to getting a production pattern made.

How Fabrics Are Measured In The Fashion Industry

How To, Industry Basics

Measurements are found all over within the fashion industry and fabrics are no exception. Whether you are looking at a Bill of Materials, ordering fabric or swatches online, or doing some fabric testing, understanding how fabrics are measured and listed will help you make the best choices regarding your fabric.

Why Small Batch Production Is No Small Cost

Costing, Fashion Business, Industry Basics

Small batch production is an attractive option for brands that are just starting out and want to test their products in the market before investing in large amounts of inventory. But, while producing small batch has a lower environmental and start-up cost, the cost per unit is actually much higher.

Size Charts, Spec Charts, and Grade Rules – What They Are For And How They’re Different

Fit, Industry Basics, Product Development, Sizing, Tech Design

Size charts, spec charts, and grade rules are all terms that are thrown around a lot during development and pre-production. While they do sound (and sometimes look a bit) similar, their meanings are all distinct and each has a different use and purpose.

How To Troubleshoot An Out-Of-Spec Garment Sample

Fit, How To, Industry Basics, Product Development, Tech Design

During development and even pre-production, there are times that you might get a sample back that isn’t quite how you wanted it. But, when the sample doesn’t fit, how do you determine whether cutting, sewing, shrinkage, markers, or the pattern itself caused the problem and what needs to be done to correct it?

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