THE DENIM BUYER’S DESK
Guides for denim sourcing
From your first reference to sample approval: practical guides for making your next sourcing decision.
READ BY STAGE
Three decisions. A clearer next step.
Start with the question you are working through today.
A clearer brief. A more useful quote.
Turn a reference into an actionable brief: customer, silhouette, fabric, wash and quantity.
- Front & back references
- Fabric and wash direction
- Quantities by style & size
Review the sample, detail by detail.
Check the agreed measurements, fit, wash and construction. Keep one clear revision record.
- Measurements & fit
- Wash & workmanship
- Written approval record
Stock sourcing or custom development?
Compare what is already available with what needs developing, then align your budget and schedule.
- Stock and size availability
- Scope of customization
- Commercial terms
FIND YOUR STARTING POINT
Match the route to your requirements.
| Decision | Stock / wholesale sourcing | Custom / private label |
|---|---|---|
| Starting point | An existing style and confirmed available options. | Your reference, tech pack or revised specification. |
| What to confirm | Stock by size, minimum quantity, price and dispatch. | Fabric, fit, wash, trims, sample scope and revision plan. |
| Before committing | Confirm the current offer and delivery terms for your destination. | Approve the sample and written production specification. |
A collection image does not confirm inventory. MOQ, pricing and timing are agreed for the specific style and project.
BEFORE YOU REQUEST A QUOTE
Make your first inquiry count.
Use this checklist to organise what you already know. Missing a detail? Tell us what needs discussing.
Your selections will accompany your inquiry after you review and submit the form.
Complete your sourcing inquiry
Your preparation summary updates with the checklist. Add the actual specifications below; changing a selection will not erase your details.
BEFORE BULK PRODUCTION
Three details worth putting in writing.
- 01
Use measurable fit comments
Name the measurement point, target value and revision. “Make it fit better” leaves too much open.
- 02
Keep one sample revision list
Combine fit, wash and trim feedback into one version, then confirm what is approved.
- 03
Define the scope of the quotation
Confirm sampling, garment production, packaging and delivery terms separately.
More sourcing notes
Choose a supply route
If an existing style, size range and branding suit your plan, check stock and delivery conditions. Changes to fit, fabric, wash or branding call for development and sample review first.
Prepare the brief
Gather front and back references, measurements, fabric and wash direction, trims, packaging, quantities and destination. Separate confirmed requirements from points to discuss.
Review the sample
Record measurements using the agreed method and check fit, sewing, shade and hand feel. Consolidate revisions in one list and keep the approved version.
Read by stage
The development brief covers the first conversation; the sample review guide organises inspection points; the sourcing comparison explains stock and custom routes.