One of the most common questions I get as a clothing brand owner is, “How much does it really cost to produce a product?” Today, I’m breaking down the exact costs of creating one of my pieces—a tracksuit from my brand, 24. This is a transparent look at where every dollar goes, and I hope it helps other aspiring brand owners understand the realities of production.
The Cost Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at the costs of bringing a tracksuit to life:
Sketches/Mockups: $40
This is the first step—getting your design out of your head and onto paper (or screen). Whether you’re working with a freelance designer or doing it yourself, mockups are crucial for visualizing your product and communicating your ideas to manufacturers.Sample Production: $268.50
Samples are an investment. They allow you to see your vision in real life and make any necessary adjustments before committing to bulk production. Keep in mind that samples are always more expensive per unit because they’re produced in small quantities.Bulk Inventory Order: $1,419.58
This is where the real money comes in. Ordering inventory in bulk lowers the cost per item, but it requires upfront capital. For this tracksuit, the bulk inventory cost was over $1,400.Bulk Shipment Costs: $350
Getting your inventory shipped to you adds another layer of expense. This can vary depending on the size of your order, the distance, and the shipping method you choose.
Total Cost: $2,078.08
Producing this tracksuit from concept to delivery cost just over $2,000. This number doesn’t even include additional costs like marketing, website maintenance, or packaging materials—expenses you’ll also need to factor into your pricing strategy.
Lessons I Learned
Samples Are a Must: Skipping samples to save money is a rookie mistake. It’s better to invest in perfecting your product before committing to a bulk order.
Expect the Unexpected: Things like higher shipping fees or unexpected adjustments to your samples can add up quickly. Always budget for unforeseen costs.
Start Small: If you’re new, start with smaller quantities to minimize risk. This way, you can test the waters and scale as demand grows.
My Advice to Aspiring Brand Owners
Breaking into the clothing industry takes research, patience, and a willingness to invest upfront. When I first started, I made mistakes—like underestimating costs and overspending on things that didn’t matter. But with every launch, I’ve learned and refined my process.
If you’re serious about starting your own brand, focus on these three things:
Your Niche: Who is your ideal customer?
Your Budget: Know how much you’re willing to spend—and stick to it.
Your Vision: Your brand’s identity should be clear in every piece you create.
I hope this breakdown gives you a clearer picture of what it takes to create a clothing item from scratch. Remember: every brand starts somewhere, and your first step is just as important as your final product.
