Start with the reference source
Identify whether you have an inspiration image, physical cutting, existing article or website development direction. Keep the source and permission with any photograph to be shared. Attach composition and dimensions only when they belong to the identified article. A useful reference record makes uncertainty visible instead of letting an attractive image silently become a production specification.
List what must remain
Write the appearance priorities and mandatory material requirements in separate fields. For appearance, describe rhythm, colour relationship, surface and the important garment part. For article constraints, state composition and any real dimensional targets. Keep mandatory wording clear so a proposed alternative cannot be mistaken for an accepted change.
State what can be discussed
Tell the team which properties are open to recommendation. A buyer may want to preserve a quiet panel rhythm while considering several material or finishing options. Ask for identified candidates that can support the garment, then compare the actual samples. Do not invent a common GSM, width or availability simply to complete the brief.
Choose the sample stage
A swatch narrows surface and colour, a larger cutting helps with panel appearance, and sample metreage supports a sewn detail. Describe the task and ask what can be supplied. Keep each stage's identity and purpose with its review. A directional inspiration, colour sample and garment trial can support different decisions.
Keep approvals within their scope
Record who reviewed which sample, which properties were accepted and what remains open. Buyer observations are separate from factory approval, test evidence and a bulk standard. When an article, colour or construction changes, identify the revision and ask which earlier decisions require another review.
Your decision and record
| Check | Decide | Keep with the reference |
|---|---|---|
| Reference | Identify its role and evidence level. | Source, permission and sample ID. |
| Requirements | Separate mandatory conditions from preferences. | Appearance and article fields. |
| Sample | Choose the stage that answers the question. | Task, size and availability to confirm. |
| Decision | Limit approval to the actual reviewed scope. | Sample version, owner and unresolved points. |
Questions for this step
Can I develop from an inspiration photo?
Yes. Keep its source and permission, label it as inspiration, and ask for identified article options and physical samples.
Must all article targets be fixed first?
Unknown targets can stay open. State actual hard requirements and explain which properties you want the team to recommend.
Is a direction swatch a bulk standard?
Identify the stage and approval scope. A bulk standard needs the appropriate sample, article specifications and explicit confirmation.