Build quantity by style first
Start with the number of styles you want to develop and the quantity you expect to order for each. Then break each style down by colour and size so the quantity plan reflects the collection you are actually buying.
Ask how the minimum order is applied to that plan. Clarify whether it refers to the combined order or to smaller groups such as a style, colour or size mix; the answer should be confirmed for the specific project.
- List every style in the first collection.
- Estimate the quantity needed for each style.
- Break the quantity down by colour and size.
- Ask how the minimum applies to the actual plan.
- Record confirmed quantities against each style.
Plan the colour and size mix
A single total quantity can hide small colour or size groups. Show the expected quantity for each option so sampling, material purchasing and production can be discussed against the same plan.
Explain which colours and sizes are essential for launch and which can be adjusted. Ask what conditions apply to each colour, including the fabric or trim needed, and confirm the final size split before production is released.
- Show a clear quantity for every colour.
- Show the planned size ratio within each colour.
- Mark launch-critical colours and sizes.
- Ask what fabric or trim conditions apply to each option.
- Confirm the final split before production.
Confirm the material conditions
Fabric and trim availability can change how a quantity plan is put together. A colour may be available in one material but not another, and a small colour or size group may depend on the amount needed to source that material.
Share the planned quantities with the material direction and ask the supplier to confirm the conditions for the project. This keeps the minimum-order discussion connected to the actual fabric, trim and colour requirements rather than a single number used for every case.
- Name the intended fabric or material direction.
- List trims that differ by colour or size.
- Ask whether each colour is conditional on material availability.
- Confirm any project-specific colour conditions in writing.
- Update the quantity plan when the material direction changes.