Sample Gauchos
What is a Sample?
A sample is a prototype of a particular style of garment and a critical step in the garment manufacturing process. The purpose of a sample is to provide the designer with an opportunity to evalute a style for fabrication, fit, design, construction, and trims, after which modifications may be made to improve it. It is how designers decide on whether to move forward with the reproduction of a particular style.
A sample is generally made in a single or limited number of sizes, can cost hundred dollars to create, and involve multiple iterations and significant time on the part of the sample maker as well as the designer. Designers are only able to recover the cost of the sample through the mass reproduction of an approved style, and frequently offer their high quality samples for purchase at significant savings over their actual costs.