Start designing your next collection a year ahead of when you want to release it. So, if you are working on new designs now, plan to launch them in Spring 2025.
This timeline isn’t just because we’re talking about slow fashion and we take the time to get the fit right, though that is certainly part of it. It also accounts for unexpected delays that come up. There is usually something, and you’ll be glad you have the extra time in your development schedule.
There is enough wiggle room in a 12 months to get everything done on time even when:
- Your fit model goes on vacation (she’s a real person with a life outside of fashion)
- The fabric color that you fell in love with is out of stock (it happens)
- Your package of sample materials goes MIA in the mail (currently looking at you, USPS)
- Your factory is backed up with orders and has an onboarding waitlist (don’t expect for them to be able to start on your production at a moment’s notice)
- You can’t find that perfect trim you are looking for (sometimes you just need a little more time to look at other options)
- Your vendor’s office or your own is closed for big holidays (have you tried getting anything done the last few weeks of December?)
It is possible to get a collection designed, developed, and launched quicker – and I have done it – but it can feel rushed even when everything works out as planned. Start your next collection a year ahead and your year will be much more relaxed.