8 Truths About Fashion Business Tailors Learn Late

As fashion shoppers, we often don’t give much thought to the behind-the-scenes work that goes into creating the clothes we wear. 

One crucial aspect of the fashion industry that we tend to overlook is the work of tailors. 

Tailors are the ones responsible for turning a designer’s vision into reality by creating custom fits that are perfect and look amazing. 

As shoppers, we should appreciate the hard work and dedication that tailors put into creating the clothes we wear. 

Being a tailor in the fashion industry requires a unique set of skills and qualities. 

From attention to detail to time management, tailors must master many aspects of their craft to succeed.

By understanding these eight truths about the fashion business, tailors can take their skills to the next level and create custom fits that truly stand out.

 Saying “No” to a customer does not hurt your business

As a fashion brand that aggregates tailors through a unified platform, Fitted understands the importance of customer satisfaction. However, sometimes saying “No” to a customer request can be the best decision for your business.

It’s natural to want to please every customer that comes your way, but sometimes their requests may not align with your brand’s values or capabilities. For example, if a customer wants a specific design that goes against your brand’s sustainable practices, it’s okay to politely decline their request and offer alternative options that align with your values.

Saying “No” to a customer can actually benefit your business in the long run. Here’s how:

1. Maintaining brand integrity

Every brand has a unique identity and set of values that they stand for. By saying “No” to requests that go against your brand’s values, you are maintaining your brand’s integrity and staying true to your identity. This helps you build a loyal customer base who share your values and appreciate your commitment to them.

2. Avoiding overpromising and under delivering

Sometimes, customers may request something that you know you cannot deliver on time or to the level of quality they expect. In such cases, it’s better to be honest and transparent about your limitations rather than overpromising and under delivering. This builds trust with your customers and shows that you prioritize quality over quantity.

3. Focusing on your strengths

Saying “No” to certain requests allows you to focus on your strengths and offer the best possible service to your customers. By specializing in a specific area, you can become known for your expertise in that area and attract customers who appreciate your unique skills and offerings.

4. Avoiding burnout

Trying to fulfill every customer request can lead to burnout and compromise the quality of your work. By saying “No” to requests that are outside your scope or capabilities, you can avoid overworking yourself and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

In conclusion, saying “No” to a customer request may seem counterintuitive, but it can actually benefit your business in the long run. By prioritizing your brand’s values, avoiding overpromising and under delivering, focusing on your strengths, and avoiding burnout, you can build a loyal customer base and maintain a thriving business. Remember, it’s okay to say “No” sometimes – it’s all part of running a successful business.

Outsourcing is a more efficient business model than in-house

As a fashion shopper, you may have noticed that more and more brands are outsourcing their production instead of keeping it in-house. This trend towards outsourcing is a reflection of the changing business landscape, where companies are looking for more efficient ways to operate. In this article, we’ll explore why outsourcing is a more efficient business model than in-house, particularly for a fashion brand that makes custom clothing via a platform of aggregated platforms.

Firstly, outsourcing allows companies to tap into a wider range of expertise. When a company keeps its production in-house, it can only rely on the skills of its own employees. However, by outsourcing, a company can access a global network of skilled workers who specialize in different aspects of production. For a fashion brand that makes bespoke fits, this means that we work with skilled tailors, pattern makers that create awesome embroideries, fabric suppliers, and other experts who can help us create high-quality outfits that are tailored to our customers’ exact specifications.

Another advantage of outsourcing is that it allows companies to focus on their core competencies. When a company tries to handle everything in-house, it can become overwhelmed and lose sight of what it does best. By outsourcing non-core functions, a company can free up resources and focus on what it does best. For Fitted.fashion, this simply means we can focus on design and customer service, while leaving the production to experts who can handle it more efficiently.

Outsourcing also allows companies to benefit from economies of scale. When a company outsources production, it can take advantage of the supplier’s existing infrastructure and capacity. This means that the company doesn’t have to invest in expensive equipment or hire additional staff to handle production. For a fashion brand that makes custom clothing, this means that they can avoid the high capital costs associated with creating their own production facility and instead rely on the existing infrastructure of their outsourced partners.

Outsourcing can provide cost savings. By outsourcing, companies can take advantage of lower labor costs in other countries. This allows them to produce goods more cheaply and remain competitive in a global marketplace. Additionally, outsourcing allows companies to avoid the costs associated with maintaining an in-house production facility, such as rent, utilities, and equipment. For a fashion brand that makes custom clothing, this means that they can offer their customers high-quality fits at a lower cost, which can help them attract and retain customers.

Not all customers are your customers

As a fashion brand, it’s easy to assume that everyone who walks into your store or visits your website is a potential customer. However, that’s not always the case. Not all customers are your customers, and it’s important to recognize that in order to focus your efforts and resources on the right audience.

First and foremost, it’s important to understand your brand’s identity and target market. Who are you creating clothes for? What is your aesthetic? What values do you stand for? Once you have a clear understanding of these things, it becomes easier to identify who your ideal customers are.

One mistake many fashion brands make is trying to appeal to everyone. This can lead to a lack of focus and a diluted brand identity. Instead, it’s better to hone in on a specific group of people who align with your brand values and aesthetic. This can be based on factors such as age, gender, interests, or even geographic location.

Once you have identified your target audience, it’s important to tailor your marketing efforts towards them. For example, if your brand is geared towards younger women who are interested in sustainability and bohemian style, you might want to focus your social media advertising on platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. You might also consider partnering with influencers who align with your brand and have a similar following.

On the other hand, if your brand is geared towards older men who are interested in classic, timeless style, you might want to focus your advertising efforts on platforms that have enough data to target your key audiences. You might also consider partnering with publications that cater to this demographic, such as men’s lifestyle magazines.

It’s also important to recognize that not everyone who fits your target audience will be interested in your brand. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as personal taste, budget, or even geographic location. That’s okay! It’s better to have a smaller group of dedicated customers than a larger group of people who aren’t truly invested in your brand.

One way to ensure that you are reaching the right audience is by analyzing your sales data. Who is buying your clothes? What are their demographics and interests? Are there certain products that are more popular among certain groups of people? This information can help you fine-tune your marketing efforts and ensure that you are reaching the right people.

Picking a niche gives you more money

When shopping online, you probably know how overwhelming it can be to browse through endless options of clothing items. With so many brands and styles to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. However, picking a niche can actually make your shopping experience easier and more rewarding in the long run.

Likewise for fashion brands, the strategic decision to carve out a niche can prove to be a lucrative endeavor for brands seeking to thrive in a competitive market. By honing in on a specific demographic, style, or product category, fashion brands can unlock a plethora of opportunities for increased profitability. Targeted marketing efforts become more precise, resonating deeply with the desires and preferences of a specialized audience. This tailored approach not only fosters stronger connections with customers but also cultivates a sense of exclusivity and authenticity, driving higher perceived value and allowing for premium pricing strategies. Moreover, niche brands benefit from reduced competition, as they occupy a unique space in the market that is less susceptible to mass-market retailers. Through innovation, cost efficiency, and unwavering commitment to their niche, fashion brands can not only survive but thrive, solidifying their position as leaders in their specialized segment of the industry.

There is more money in repeat purchases for fashion brands

In the world of fashion commerce, the adage “there is more money in repeat purchases” rings particularly true, serving as a cornerstone of sustainable growth and long-term success for brands. While acquiring new customers certainly holds its allure, the real goldmine lies in fostering loyalty and enticing existing clientele to return time and again. Repeat purchases signify not only satisfaction with a brand’s products but also a deep-seated trust and affinity that transcends mere transactions. Fashion brands that prioritize cultivating strong relationships with their customer base through personalized experiences, exceptional customer service, and consistent quality are poised to reap the rewards of repeat business. Furthermore, loyal customers often serve as brand advocates, spreading positive word-of-mouth and driving new customer acquisition through their endorsement. By recognizing the inherent value in nurturing repeat purchases, fashion brands can solidify their foothold in the industry, fortify their bottom line, and pave the way for sustained prosperity amidst an ever-changing marketplace.

Standard Sizing is bad for business

In the realm of fashion, the reliance on standard sizing has long been regarded as a hindrance rather than a help for brands striving to thrive in an increasingly diverse and inclusive market. The one-size-fits-all approach fails to accommodate the myriad of body shapes and sizes that exist among consumers, leading to frustration, dissatisfaction, and ultimately, lost sales opportunities. Fashion brands that cling to rigid sizing conventions risk alienating large segments of their potential customer base, particularly those who fall outside the narrow parameters of standard sizing. Furthermore, the prevalence of returns due to ill-fitting fits incurs substantial costs and logistical challenges for brands, undermining profitability and efficiency. Embracing a more inclusive approach to sizing not only fosters goodwill and loyalty among customers but also opens up untapped markets and revenue streams. By championing diversity and prioritizing the needs of all consumers, fashion brands can break free from the constraints of standard sizing and position themselves as trailblazers in an industry that celebrates individuality and self-expression.

As a fashion brand, you’ve likely been relying on standard sizing for years. But have you ever considered that this traditional sizing system may actually be bad for your business?

Standard sizing has been used in the fashion industry for decades, but it’s a system that’s becoming increasingly outdated. Why? Because people are all different shapes and sizes, and standard sizing simply doesn’t account for this. When people try on clothes in a store and find that nothing fits them quite right, it can be incredibly frustrating. In fact, it’s one of the main reasons why people end up returning items they’ve purchased – and that’s bad news for your business.

So, what can you do? Well, it’s time to start thinking outside the box when it comes to sizing. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Offer custom sizing.

One way to ensure that your clothes fit your customers perfectly is to offer custom sizing. This might sound daunting, but it’s actually easier than you might think. You could offer a simple form on your website where customers can enter their measurements, or you could even offer an in-store measuring service. By offering custom sizing, you’ll be able to provide clothes that fit your customers like a glove. And happy customers are more likely to return and recommend your brand to others.

2. The Fitted AI Measuring tool

With Fitted your unique body dimensions can be captured with our AI powered measurement system, ensuring a perfect fit, tailored exclusively to you. Say farewell to tedious measuring tapes and welcome the era of hassle-free, AI guided measurements, that guarantee an impeccable and customized experience.

3. Use a variety of models.

Another problem with standard sizing is that it doesn’t take into account different body shapes. By using a variety of models in your marketing materials and on your website, you can show that your clothes are designed to look good on a variety of body types. This can be incredibly empowering for customers who may have previously felt like they didn’t fit into the traditional fashion mold.

3. Provide detailed sizing information.

If you’re not quite ready to offer custom sizing, you can still make sure that your customers have all the information they need to make an informed decision about what size to order. Provide detailed sizing information on your website, including measurements for each size and information about how the clothes are intended to fit. This can help customers feel more confident about ordering online, which can lead to more sales for your business.

Of course, there are some challenges to moving away from standard sizing. For one thing, it can be more time-consuming and expensive to produce custom sizes. But the benefits – happier customers, fewer returns, and a more inclusive brand image – are well worth the effort.

Standard sizing may have worked in the past, but it’s time to start thinking about the future of fashion. By offering custom sizing, using a variety of models, and providing detailed sizing information, you can create a more inclusive and customer-focused brand. And that’s good news for everyone involved.

You need those feedback badly

As a bespoke clothing brand, you know that understanding your customers’ needs and preferences is crucial to your success. One of the best ways to gather this information is through feedback. However, feedback can be a double-edged sword. While positive feedback can be a great morale booster, negative feedback can be disheartening. But no matter what type of feedback you receive, it is essential to take it seriously and use it to improve your business.

Here are a few reasons why you need feedback badly:

1. It helps you understand your customers 

Feedback is one of the best ways to understand your customers. By listening to their comments and concerns, you can gain insight into what they like and dislike about your products and services. This information can help you make informed decisions about what to offer and how to improve your offerings.

2. It helps you improve your products and services

Feedback can also help you improve your products and services. By understanding what your customers like and dislike about your offerings, you can make changes to ensure that they are meeting their needs. This can help you retain customers and attract new ones.

3. It helps you build trust with your customers

When you ask for feedback and take it seriously, you show your customers that you value their opinions. This can help build trust and loyalty with your customers. They will feel that you care about their needs and are willing to make changes to ensure that they are satisfied.

4. It helps you stay ahead of the competition

By listening to your customers, you can stay ahead of the competition. If you are the first to offer a new product or service that meets your customers’ needs, you will have a competitive advantage. Additionally, by continuously improving your offerings based on feedback, you can stay ahead of competitors who are not as responsive to their customers’ needs.

So, how can you gather feedback?

One of the best ways to gather feedback is through surveys. You can send out surveys to your customers via email or social media. You can also include a survey on your website or in your store. Be sure to keep the survey short and to the point, and ask questions that will provide you with actionable feedback.

Another way to gather feedback is through customer reviews. Encourage your customers to leave reviews on your website or on third-party review sites. Be sure to respond to all reviews, both positive and negative, to show that you value their feedback.

Feedback is essential to the success of any fashion brand that makes custom clothing. By listening to your customers and taking their feedback seriously, you can improve your products and services, build trust with your customers, and stay ahead of the competition. So, don’t be afraid to ask for feedback, and use it to improve your business.

The value of creativity

Creativity is an essential element in the fashion industry. It is what sets successful fashion brands apart from their competitors. Creativity is the foundation of the fashion industry, and without it, fashion brands would not be able to produce innovative and unique designs that appeal to their customers’ tastes.

For fashion brands, creativity is an essential tool in achieving success. Creativity allows fashion brands to create unique and innovative designs that appeal to their target audience, making them stand out from their competitors. It enables brands to create collections that are not only stylish but also functional and practical, making them more appealing to customers.

In today’s fashion industry, creativity plays a crucial role in brand identity. Consumers are always looking for something new, original, and exciting, and fashion brands must continuously come up with fresh ideas to keep up with their customers’ demands. By incorporating creativity into their designs, fashion brands can create a strong brand identity that resonates with their customers, making them more likely to become loyal customers.

Creativity also allows fashion brands to explore different styles, colors, and fabrics, and to experiment with new materials and techniques. This experimentation allows brands to create designs that are unique and innovative, setting them apart from their competitors. It also allows them to stay ahead of the curve, anticipating and creating trends before they become mainstream.

Fashion brands that prioritize creativity are also more likely to attract and retain talented designers and creative teams. Creative professionals are drawn to companies that value innovation, originality, and experimentation, and are more likely to stay with a brand that allows them to express their creativity and push the boundaries of fashion.

In addition, creativity can also help fashion brands to establish themselves as leaders in sustainability. By incorporating sustainable materials and production techniques into their designs, brands can create products that are both eco-friendly and stylish. This can help to attract environmentally conscious consumers, who are increasingly looking for sustainable fashion options.

Creativity is essential for fashion brands looking to succeed in the industry. It allows brands to create unique and innovative designs that appeal to their target audience, establish a strong brand identity, stay ahead of the curve, attract and retain talented designers, and establish themselves as leaders in sustainability. By prioritizing creativity, fashion brands can set themselves apart from their competitors and create products that are not only stylish but also functional, practical, and eco-friendly.

You lose money on your outfits (sell magic tags)

As a brand, you know that your success relies on both creating stunning designs and making sales. However, have you ever thought about how you can increase your profit margins beyond just increasing the price of your fits? One solution to consider is selling magic tags.

Magic tags are a relatively new concept in the fashion industry, but they have the potential to revolutionize how we think about clothing. Essentially, magic tags are small, discreet devices that are attached to fits. These tags allow the wearer to track how often they wear a particular item of clothing, how long they wear it for, and when they wear it. The data collected by the magic tags can then be used to help the wearer make more informed decisions about their wardrobe, such as which items they wear the most and which items they should consider getting rid of.

But how does this benefit you as a fashion brand? By selling magic tags with your fits, you can offer your customers a unique and valuable service that they can’t get anywhere else. Additionally, the data collected by the magic tags can be used by you as a fashion brand to better understand your customers and their needs. For example, if you notice that a particular style of outfit is only being worn a few times before being discarded, you may want to rethink the design of that item to make it more versatile or durable. Alternatively, if you notice that a particular garment is being worn frequently, you may want to consider producing more of that item to meet demand.

Selling magic tags also has the potential to increase customer loyalty and repeat business. When customers see that you are offering a unique and valuable service that helps them make better decisions about their wardrobe, they are more likely to return to your brand for future purchases. Additionally, by offering a service that other brands are not, you are setting yourself apart from the competition and creating a unique selling point for your brand.

Of course, there are some potential challenges to consider when selling magic tags. The cost of producing the tags and implementing the necessary technology may be a barrier for some brands. Additionally, there may be concerns about privacy and data collection that need to be addressed. However, with the right approach and careful consideration of these challenges, the benefits of selling magic tags can far outweigh the costs.

Selling magic tags with your fits has the potential to revolutionize the fashion industry by offering a unique and valuable service to customers, providing valuable data to fashion brands, increasing customer loyalty, and setting your brand apart from the competition. While there may be some challenges to consider, the potential benefits make this a strategy worth exploring for any fashion brand looking to increase their profit margins and improve customer satisfaction.

In conclusion, these eight truths about fashion business tailors learning late can help you understand the industry better. By saying “no” when necessary, outsourcing certain tasks, focusing on your ideal customer, specializing in a niche market, valuing repeat purchases, adding a “magic tag” to your products, taking feedback seriously, offering custom sizing, and investing in technology, you can create a successful and fulfilling fashion business.

In the dynamic world of fashion business, the journey to success often entails uncovering truths that come with experience and perseverance. For tailors and fashion brands alike, embracing these eight truths can be transformative, guiding them towards sustainable growth and longevity in an ever-evolving industry. From the importance of mastering the art of storytelling to the power of cultivating relationships and the necessity of adapting to changing consumer preferences, these insights serve as invaluable lessons that shape the trajectory of a brand’s journey. By heeding these truths, fashion businesses can navigate the complexities of the market with confidence, harnessing their creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit to carve out their own unique path to success. As they continue to learn, evolve, and innovate, these truths become the foundation upon which they build thriving businesses that leave an indelible mark on the fashion landscape.