Introduction

Before a garment hits the production line, it goes through a series of carefully planned sample stages. Each type of garment sample plays a vital role in ensuring that the final product meets design intent, fit, quality standards, and brand expectations.

For fashion designers, startups, and established brands alike, understanding these sample types is essential to navigate the production process smoothly. At R3 Studio, we guide our clients through each stage, making sure no detail is overlooked.

1. Prototype Sample (or Development Sample)

Purpose: To bring an idea to life.

This is the very first version of a garment, developed from the initial design or tech pack. Prototype samples are usually made with substitute fabrics and trims (not the final approved materials) to test the concept, silhouette, and construction feasibility.

• When used: Early product development stage.
• What it helps with: Approving overall design direction before investing in expensive materials.

2. Fit Sample

Purpose: To test fit and sizing.

Fit samples are created in the intended fabric (or close to it) and are usually made in a base/sample size (often Medium for women, Large for men). This allows the design team to evaluate proportions, movement, comfort, and grading needs.

• When used: After prototype approval, before size set.
• What it helps with: Adjusting pattern for true-to-size wear.

3. Size Set Sample

Purpose: To check grading accuracy.

A size set sample includes garments across the entire size range (XS–XL or more). This ensures grading rules applied to the base pattern translate correctly across all sizes.

• When used: Once fit sample is approved.
• What it helps with: Identifying inconsistencies in proportion, especially in extended sizes.

4. Salesman Sample (SMS)

Purpose: To showcase the collection for buyers.

SMS are produced in the final fabric and trims, and they represent the product exactly as it will appear in stores. Brands use these samples in trade shows, lookbooks, photoshoots, and retail meetings.

• When used: Pre-production marketing stage.
• What it helps with: Generating purchase orders and retail commitments.

5. Pre-Production Sample (PPS)

Purpose: To approve before mass production.

Made using final approved fabrics, trims, construction techniques, and packaging, PPS represents the definitive version of the garment. Once approved, the factory uses it as a reference for bulk production.

• When used: Right before production.
• What it helps with: Aligning brand, designer, and manufacturer on final specifications.

6. Top of Production Sample (TOP)

Purpose: To verify production accuracy.

TOP samples are pulled directly from the first pieces of bulk production. They are inspected to ensure that quality, measurements, and finishing match the PPS.

• When used: Early in production run.
• What it helps with: Preventing costly mistakes across large quantities.

7. Shipment Sample (or Gold Seal Sample)

Purpose: To confirm shipment standards.

These samples are taken from the actual finished goods that are packed and ready for shipping. They serve as the ultimate reference for what customers will receive.

• When used: Post-production, pre-shipment.
• What it helps with: Verifying packaging, labeling, and final QC.

Other Specialized Samples

• Photo Shoot Samples: Produced early for marketing campaigns.
• Wash/Finish Samples: Show how fabrics respond to dyeing, washing, or distressing.
• Fabric Hand-Feel Swatches: Mini samples to confirm fabric weight, drape, and finish.

Conclusion

Each garment sample plays a specific role in the journey from concept to consumer. Skipping or rushing through a stage can lead to costly errors, poor fit, or dissatisfied customers.

At R3 Studio, we partner with brands to manage every sample stage with precision—ensuring smooth transitions, minimized risk, and a final product that matches your vision. Whether you’re launching a new line or scaling an established brand, mastering the sample process is the foundation of successful apparel production.