What Should Be My Budget for Starting a Clothing Brand?

Let’s be honest: most first-time founders have no idea where to start when it comes to budgeting for their clothing line.

We get this question every week at WearLab, and the truth is  there’s no one number that fits all. Your budget depends on the type of product, materials, and how far along you are in development.

 

Here’s a simple breakdown of where your money actually goes:

1. Product Development

Before you even think about production, you’ll need your foundations a tech pack and pattern.

These are the blueprints manufacturers rely on to bring your idea to life.

At WearLab, product development projects typically start from a few thousand dollars, depending on complexity. This step ensures your designs are factory-ready and that your manufacturer whether local or overseas can execute with precision.

 

2. Sampling & Fittings

This stage is where your design takes shape. Samples help you test fit, refine details, and confirm functionality.

Depending on your product type, you may go through one or two rounds before it’s ready for production.

Each sample round starts from $2500, depending on the garment’s design and construction needs. For technical or activewear, allow extra room for fittings and adjustments.

3. Production

Once your sample is approved, production costs vary widely based on order size and location.

• Small-batch production with local clothing manufacturers in Vancouver gives you quality control and transparency.

• Offshore apparel manufacturing may lower per-unit cost but often requires higher minimum order quantities (MOQs).

 

4. Fabric & Material Sourcing

Fabric sourcing is another key cost most founders overlook. Whether you’re sourcing sustainable textiles, trims, or tags, having verified supplier contacts saves time and prevents mistakes.

We recommend setting aside a flat sourcing budget to cover fabric swatches, trims, and small minimum orders  especially when working with small batch clothing manufacturers in Canada.

5. Marketing & Launch

Don’t forget your post-production costs: branding, photography, e-commerce, and marketing. Your clothing line deserves a proper launch  budget for it.

Final Thoughts

Launching your brand doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Work with experienced clothing manufacturers for startups who understand small-batch production and can guide you through each step.

At WearLab, we help founders move from idea to finished collection with clarity, structure, and confidence  whether you’re producing locally in Vancouver or scaling internationally.