Start with measurements, not size names
Labels such as US 6, UK 10, EU 38, S or M are not universal specifications. Supply a measurement chart for the intended customer and state the market convention used. At minimum, identify the body or garment measurements that control bust, waist, hip and finished length.
Clarify whether the chart records body measurements or finished-garment measurements. If finished measurements are used, agree the intended ease and how stretch, corsetry, lining and seam construction affect fit.
- Market and size-label convention
- Body or garment measurement basis
- Bust, waist, hip and length points
- Intended ease and fit direction
Approve a sample size and grading rules
Choose a sample size that represents the center of the planned range and provide the corresponding measurements. Review the sample on a person or fit model whose measurements are recorded, then return comments with photographs and measured differences where possible.
Grading determines how measurements change between sizes. Do not assume every circumference and length increases by the same amount. Necklines, straps, armholes, cups, waist placement and skirt proportions may need separate rules to preserve the design across the range.
- Approved sample-size measurements
- Grade increments by measurement point
- Length and proportion rules
- Tolerance and measuring method
Build the four-size quantity ratio
The standard 30-piece minimum applies to each color and can be divided across four sizes. Use sales history, pre-orders or the profile of your target customer to decide the ratio rather than dividing the units equally by default.
For illustration, a buyer might place more units in the two central sizes and fewer at each edge of the four-size range. This is a planning example, not a prescribed ratio: the final numbers should total 30 and be written clearly on the purchase order for each color.
- Exactly four agreed sizes
- A whole-number quantity for each size
- 30 pieces in total for each color
- Separate confirmation for every style and color
Lock the size information before production
Place the approved size chart, grading rules, measurement method, tolerances and order ratio in one controlled specification. Make sure the style number and revision date match the approved sample and purchase order.
If fit comments change construction, confirm whether the change affects every size. Final size labels and packing assortments should also match the purchase order so receiving teams can check cartons against the agreed breakdown.
- Final size chart and revision date
- Approved fit comments
- Quantity ratio by color
- Label and carton assortment check