Apparel Product Development Process
By Brian Wayne
1. Trend or Concept Board 2. Color Board
● A visual representation of the current trends, themes, and ● This board shows the chosen color palette for the
concepts that will inspire the new collection. It’s the upcoming season. It is used to communicate the primary
foundation that guides the design team's creative direction colors, shades, and tones that will be incorporated into the
and overall aesthetic. designs.
3. Fabric Board 4. Line Board
● A selection of fabric samples and textures that will be used ● A preliminary overview of all styles to be produced, often
in the collection. It helps ensure that materials align with with sketches or digital renderings. It shows how different
the aesthetic and functional needs of the garments. pieces in the collection relate to each other.
5. Prototype 6. Order of Operations
● An initial sample of each garment, created to test the ● A detailed sequence outlining each step in garment
design, fit, and fabric choices. This prototype is reviewed construction, from cutting fabric to adding finishing details.
for necessary adjustments before moving to production. This plan ensures consistency and efficiency in
manufacturing.
7. Technical Package (Tech Pack) 8. Bill of Materials (BOM)
● A document that includes detailed specifications for each ● A comprehensive list of all materials needed for
garment, such as dimensions, materials, and assembly production, including fabric, trims, and other components.
instructions. The Tech Pack guides manufacturers in the The BOM helps track costs and ensures all resources are
mass production process. ready for manufacturing.
Importance of Target Market in the Development Process
The target market is critical in the product development process for several
reasons:
1. Guides Design Choices: Understanding the target market ensures that
designs cater to specific tastes and preferences, increasing the chances of a
successful launch.
2. Determines Price Point: Knowing the target demographic helps set an
appropriate price range, balancing quality with affordability based on the
market segment.
3. Informs Marketing Strategies: The target market shapes advertising and
promotional tactics, aligning the brand message with the audience’s values
and lifestyle.
Reflection on the New Design Process
This structured process for fashion production prioritizes
efficiency and market alignment but can sometimes constrain
creativity. While the method ensures collections meet
consumer demands, it may limit designers' freedom to
experiment due to the focus on trends and cost-effectiveness.
Despite this, the process also allows for innovative designs to
reach broader audiences, suggesting that even within
structure, there’s room for artistic expression to adapt and
thrive.
