A first production order is always about finding the right balance between assortment variety and financial security. One of the main risks for a new brand is spreading the budget across too many products, only to run out of popular sizes while being left with excess stock in those with lower demand.
SKU Anatomy: Understanding the Real Complexity
Every combination of style × color × size creates a separate Stock Keeping Unit (SKU). Each SKU requires its own labeling, pattern grading, packaging, and inventory management.
A simple formula shows how quickly the assortment can grow:
4 styles × 2 colors × 5 sizes = 40 SKUs.
If your initial production run is 200 units, that leaves only 5 pieces per size in each specific color. This makes cutting and inventory management more complex. For a first launch, it is advisable to keep the SKU matrix limited.
Collection Architecture
Divide your initial assortment into clear roles:
Core styles (Hero products): 1–2 proven fits with reliable support and well-tested ergonomics in neutral colors such as black, ivory, and beige.
Statement style: a seasonal color or trend-led silhouette designed to attract attention and create strong visual content.
Complementary bottoms: offer two panty styles for one top or bra, such as classic briefs and Brazilian briefs. In swimwear, allowing customers to purchase tops and bottoms separately is a basic expectation.
The top 10–20% of products can generate around 80% of revenue.
Size Range vs. Size Ratio
The size range defines which sizes are available, for example XS–XL or 70B–80D. The size ratio determines how the total production quantity is distributed across that range.
Avoid ordering every size in equal quantities (1:1:1:1). Traditionally, core sizes such as S and M or 75B and 75C tend to account for a larger share of demand, while sizes at the ends of the range may require smaller quantities during the initial test.
However, there is no universal size ratio that works for every brand. The size distribution should be based on your target audience, pre-orders, sales data, or the results of a test launch.
Finalizing the Production Matrix
Before the collection goes into production, prepare a final matrix that includes the style reference, fabric, Pantone color, size range, and approved production sample. This helps reduce the risk of errors when ordering elastics and closures or cutting the fabric.
The PrivateLabel.lv team can help calculate material consumption, optimize the size range for your target audience, and launch your first lingerie or swimwear production run with a manageable MOQ while avoiding unnecessary excess stock.
