THE PRODUCTION NOTEBOOK
From Sample Approval to Bulk Production
Prepare a clear production handover after sample approval, including final specifications, materials, size quantities, quality checkpoints and delivery planning.
Freeze the approved product reference
Start by identifying the exact sample and specification version approved for production. Record the style number, sample date, colour, fabric references, measurements and any agreed corrections. A photograph marked approved is not enough if the written specifications still describe an earlier version.
Clarify whether corrections require another physical sample or can be checked through an agreed alternative. Avoid leaving important decisions open when production is released.
Keep the final tech pack, materials list and approval notes together. If a design change is requested later, confirm its effects on materials, cost and timing.
Confirm materials, trims and colourways
Check that the materials intended for bulk match the approved references. For gothic and alternative garments, pay particular attention to the relationship between outer fabric, lining, mesh, lace and decorative hardware. Identify each approved combination rather than treating every black component as interchangeable.
Ask how substitutions, unavailable trims or differences between material batches will be handled. Require proposed alternatives to be reviewed before use.
Confirm the placement and artwork of brand labels, size labels, hangtags and packaging elements included in the order. Ensure the quotation reflects the agreed specification.
Reconcile quantities and the size breakdown
Create one order matrix showing the quantity for each style, colour and size. Check that its totals match the purchase order and quotation. Keep this matrix separate from forecasts for potential reorders so the immediate production requirement is unambiguous.
Review the size specifications beyond the original sample size. Ask whether a size set or selected additional sizes should be reviewed for your design, particularly where fit depends on close-fitting panels or adjustable details.
Metrodress advertises a starting MOQ of 100 pieces. Confirm the applicable minimum and permitted size and colour breakdown for the specific order.
Agree quality checkpoints before production starts
Discuss what will be checked, when it will be checked and how findings will be reported. Depending on the style, priorities may include measurements, lace placement, seam appearance, closures, lining coverage and label accuracy.
Use the approved sample and written specifications as the reference. Define which issues require immediate discussion and who is authorised to approve a proposed correction. Do not rely on broad descriptions such as premium quality as the only acceptance criteria.
Where inspection or testing is required, agree its scope, method, timing and responsibility in advance.
Plan the handover through to dispatch
Request a schedule that separates material readiness, production, finishing, inspection, packing and dispatch. Confirm which milestones depend on your approvals and distinguish the planned dispatch date from the expected arrival date.
Agree packing details, carton identification and the documents you need for receiving the order. Before dispatch, reconcile the packed quantities with the final order matrix and discuss any differences.
For a new Metrodress project, share your approved sample information, tech pack and quantity breakdown to discuss next steps. Confirm bulk timing for the actual order rather than extrapolating it from the advertised sampling window.