Factory Q & A – Le Mélange

Q1:

What are your top capabilities/specialties? 

We specialize in helping designers build a technical foundation based on their ideas and needs and help them transfer it to the professional development team. Most designers don’t have sketching skills and have a hard time making people understand their design status and ideas. They spend so much money with sample makers and freelance pattern makers to develop their product, but oftentimes they do not achieve the results they want. We have a great team that is experienced in development and sourcing and we make sure that we thoroughly communicate every detail of the process with our clients. Also, we focus a lot of our attention on making the perfect pattern to start any development; having a perfect fit is crucial to achieving the ideal result the client strives for.

Q2: 

What products are you best at making?  

Womenswear, Men’s wear, Kids wear, Swimwear, Activewear, Evening gowns.

Q3:

What are your minimum quantities?

We have no minimum quantity. We are open to making as many units as our clients require. Lower quantities normally affect the cost, therefore we quote projects according to the quantity and design complexity.

Q4:

What is your team like? 

In efforts to promote emerging fashion brands that challenge the industry standards, we’ve gathered a team of the foremost sourcing specialists, technical designers, pattern and sample makers equipped with the skills and technology needed to handle each stage of clothing manufacturing. Our enthusiastic, passionate and experienced team is ready to ease your process and guide you in the right direction for achieving seamless results. 

Q5:

What are some tips for sourcing fabrics and trims?

The fabric you choose is an essential part of your collection. It influences the way your garment drapes, looks, feels, and flows. You should also attend textile and other trade shows related to your collection as often as possible to stay updated.

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Here are a few questions you should ask before you decide on a supplier:

  • a. What season is your line designed for? Are you working on an F/W line or creating a lighter collection for spring/summer? This will help you decide on the fabrics and materials you’ll need.
  • b. What is the purpose of your collection? Whether it’s a small-scale collection for retail or a runway line for a fashion show, the purpose of your collection helps determine things like functionality, rigidity, and durability, which are essential to the proper execution of your design.
  • c. What type of garment are you creating? Consider what type of garment you’re making before determining the right fabric. Undergarments are often made with breathable fabrics like cotton or even modal which have high absorption. While Polyester fabrics don’t have great breathability, they wrinkle much less than natural fibers, making them great for many contemporary items that lay loosely on the body. Understanding each fabric and its properties in relationship to the garment you’re making allows you to ensure you’re picking the right material for your project. 


Q6:

When you are purchasing your fabric, you should ask the following information from your supplier: 

  • a. Exact material content.
  • b. Style number or any reference info for repurchasing
  • c. Width of fabric
  • d. Wash and shrinkage info
  • e. Minimum order quantity and price
  • f. Sample yardage quantity and price 
  • g. Country of origin
  • h. Delivery and availability dates


Q7:

What are some challenges you’ve faced while sourcing?

Sourcing can begin when you figure out your needs as a designer. Without an understanding of what you need, it’s nearly impossible to find the right materials and supplier for your line. As a new fashion designer, efficiency can save you a lot of time and money. This is especially true of sourcing, which can be a complex process with multiple variables including vendors, shipping, timelines, and more; the materials you use can make or break your line, so as difficult as it might be, it’s important to find the right suppliers that meet your needs.

Q8:

What sourcing trends are you seeing this year? 

As time goes by, our world will always evolve and if you think the current craze for sustainability is simply a phase you have another thing coming. Eco-friendly materials and processes are extremely important in any industry, especially in fashion.We support brands prioritizing fair trade practices and materials so that they can ensure they are promoting improved environmental standards in factories all over the world.

Q9:

Do you stock any materials in your factory?

We usually don’t stock any materials as every client’s needs are different.

Q10:

What is the range of fabric lead-times? 

Purchase order lead times vary from company to company, and depend on many factors such as the types of materials being ordered, their relative abundance or scarcity, the location of the suppliers, and even the time of year. If the supplier is domestic, It may take from five business days to three weeks to receive the fabric. 

Q11:

What do you love about what you do? 

Helping client’s dreams come to life is the most enjoyable part of my job. Every project is an encouragement to try something new each time!

 

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