Alright, startup founder. You’ve got a vision. A name. Maybe even a logo that looks good on a napkin. But here’s the thing no one tells you: your dream brand doesn’t start with a design—it starts with a factory. And picking the right blank clothing manufacturer? That’s not just a sourcing task. It’s the foundation of everything. One bad partner can cost you months, thousands in returns, and a reputation you’ll never recover from.
I’ve seen it happen too many times. A promising new line launches, customers love the look… then they wash it once, and suddenly it’s shrunk, faded, or feels like sandpaper. Or worse—your MOQs are so high you’re stuck with 500 units of a color you didn’t even want. I’ve had clients cry over inventory they couldn’t sell because their fabric supplier skipped QC checks. I’ve also helped brands grow from zero to $200K in sales in under a year by choosing the right partner early. The difference? Not luck. It’s experience.
So if you’re serious about building a real brand—not just another dropshipping side hustle—this is your field guide. No marketing fluff. No fake “best” lists. Just raw, real talk from someone who’s been knee-deep in factories, fabric rolls, and shipping delays for over a decade. We’re diving into the top 8 blank apparel manufacturers based on what actually works in the wild—what we’ve tested, what we’ve failed with, and what we’ve seen succeed. And yes, this includes the ones you think you should avoid. Because sometimes, the “wrong” fit is the perfect one for your brand.
If you’re serious about quality, scalability, and avoiding the rookie mistakes that sink startups, Fexwear is where you want to start. We don’t just make clothes—we help you build a supply chain that lasts. Check out our fabric recommendations for sportswear before you even send a sample request. Trust me, it’ll save you $220K in returns.
1. InStyle
Best for High-End Brands (But Don’t Get Seduced by the Hype)
Let’s be real: when you hear “InStyle,” you think celebrity red carpets, glossy magazine spreads, and a vibe that screams “luxury.” And yeah, they’ve built that image. But here’s the twist—InStyle isn’t actually a manufacturer. They’re a content platform. I know, I was confused too when I first saw them listed as a top blank apparel partner. Turns out, this whole section is a ghost reference. Probably a copy-paste error from an old blog post.
So let’s clear the air: InStyle does not manufacture blank apparel. If you’re looking for high-end production, don’t go chasing a brand that doesn’t exist in manufacturing. This is a classic trap. You see a flashy name, assume it’s a factory, and waste weeks on emails that go nowhere.
What you should do instead? Look at the actual players. If you’re targeting luxury, focus on partners with verified craftsmanship, ethical certifications, and small-batch precision. Don’t fall for the glamour. Build your brand on substance, not a name that sounds fancy.
And if you’re still unsure where to start? Check out our fabric guide. It’s packed with real-world data on what actually performs under pressure—because in high-end fashion, even a 2% variation in fabric weight can ruin a garment’s drape.
2. Nikibiki
Best for Innovation (But Only If You’re Building Activewear)
Okay, now we’re talking about a real player. Nikibiki—based in Los Angeles—has carved a niche in seamless women’s activewear. And honestly? They’re good. Not just “okay.” They’re the kind of factory that makes you pause and say, “Wait, how did they do that?” Their tech is legit: seamless knitting machines that produce full garments without seams, reducing chafing and improving comfort.
But here’s the catch—this innovation comes with caveats. First, they only do women’s wear. If you’re building a unisex or men’s line, Nikibiki won’t work. Second, their focus is on performance. They’re not interested in basic tees or hoodies. You’re either building a high-performance yoga line or walking away.
I worked with a client last year who wanted to launch a premium leggings line. She was obsessed with Nikibiki’s tech—seamless construction, moisture-wicking, stretch that held up after 50 washes. We ran three rounds of samples. The third batch passed all our QC tests: no pilling, no shrinkage, excellent recovery. The final product looked and felt like something you’d see on a runway.
But—and this is big—their MOQs are steep. 300 pieces per style, minimum. And lead time? 6–8 weeks. If you’re testing concepts or launching a small collection, that’s brutal.
Still, if you’re serious about innovation in women’s activewear, Nikibiki is worth the investment. Just don’t expect flexibility. They’re not a generalist. They’re a specialist. And that’s okay—if you’re aiming for that niche, they’re one of the few who deliver.
3. Fexwear
Best in Overall (Yes, We’re Talking About Us)
Look, I get it. When you’re reading this, you might be thinking, “Oh great, a self-promo.” But hear me out. I’m not saying this because we’re the best. I’m saying it because we’ve earned it—through hard lessons, failed projects, and countless factory audits.
Fexwear, based in Guangdong, China, has been in the game since 2003. That’s two decades of OEM experience. We’ve shipped to every major market: the US, Canada, EU, Australia. We’ve handled everything from tiny batches of 50 pieces to container loads of 10,000+ units.
Our strength? Versatility. We don’t specialize in one category. We do sweaters, jackets, T-shirts, joggers, hoodies—basically anything you can imagine. And unlike some “one-size-fits-all” factories, we actually listen. We’ve worked with indie brands, boutique labels, and even some well-known names who needed a reliable partner for seasonal drops.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- We handle end-to-end production: From tech packs to sampling, bulk production, packaging, and global shipping.
- We offer low MOQs: Starting at just 50 units per style. Perfect for startups testing demand.
- We use advanced fabric tech: Moisture-wicking, anti-shrinkage, color retention—all built into the fabric, not just added later.
- We have a strict QC process: Every batch goes through pre-production, in-line, and pre-shipment checks. No shortcuts.
Last year, we helped a brand launch a winter collection using recycled polyester blends with GRS certification. The customer loved the eco-angle, and the fabric held up perfectly—no fading, no pilling, even after 40 washes. That’s not magic. It’s process.
If you’re looking for a partner who’s reliable, scalable, and willing to walk you through the entire journey—even if you’re clueless at first—Fexwear is your best bet. We’re not just a factory. We’re your co-pilot.
4. Printful
Best for Customization and Flexibility (But Watch the Hidden Costs)
Printful is the darling of the dropshipping world. You’ve probably seen their ads. “No inventory. No risk. Just print and ship.” Sounds perfect, right?
It is, for the right kind of business. If you’re running a Shopify store with 10 designs, and you want to test which ones sell without buying 500 shirts upfront—that’s where Printful shines.
But here’s the truth no one talks about: it’s not a true manufacturing partner. It’s a fulfillment service. And while that’s fine for small-scale testing, it becomes a nightmare when you scale.
I’ve seen brands blow up overnight. Suddenly they’re getting 500 orders a day. Printful? They’re maxed out. Orders get delayed. Customers complain. Then you’re scrambling to find a real factory.
Plus, the pricing? It looks cheap until you run the numbers. A plain white T-shirt from Printful costs $12.95 + $3.95 shipping. That’s $16.90 per unit. Now compare that to a factory like Fexwear, where you can get a similar-quality tee for $5.20, plus $2.50 shipping. That’s a $9.20 savings per shirt. Multiply that by 1,000 units? That’s $9,200 in profit you just kept.
Also, customization is limited. You can’t change the fabric, the fit, or the stitching. It’s all locked in. And if you want a custom size chart or unique hemline? Forget it.
So yes—Printful is great for testing. But if you’re serious about building a brand, treat it like a stepping stone, not a long-term solution. Once you hit 50+ units per month, you need to move to a real manufacturer.
Need help figuring out the next step? Check out our fabric recommendations —it’ll help you decide what materials will actually hold up in real life.
5. Pineapple Clothing
Best for Women’s and Children’s Fashion (But Be Wary of Style Lock-In)
Pineapple Clothing is a fun one. Based in California, they’re all about vibrant prints, inclusivity, and making people feel confident. Their mission? “Every girl deserves to feel special.” And honestly? They deliver.
Their key products—dresses and leggings—are designed for movement, comfort, and joy. They use soft, breathable fabrics with great stretch. And their prints? Bold. Fun. Instagram-ready.
But here’s the problem: if your brand isn’t aligned with that aesthetic, you’ll be fighting against the grain. Pineapple Clothing doesn’t do minimalist, neutral, or “quiet luxury” styles. If you’re going for clean lines, subtle details, or muted tones, you’re wasting your time.
I worked with a client who wanted to launch a children’s line focused on organic cotton and simple silhouettes. She reached out to Pineapple Clothing. They sent samples. The fabric was soft, the stitching was solid—but the prints were all bright florals and cartoon animals. Not exactly “minimalist mom aesthetic.” She ended up switching to a different factory.
So here’s my advice: use Pineapple Clothing only if your brand is bold, colorful, and playful. If you’re trying to be “calm” or “understated,” they’re not the right fit.
And don’t forget—they’re focused on women and children. No men’s wear. No unisex lines. So if you’re expanding beyond that, you’ll need another partner.
6. Blanks
Best for Promotional and Corporate Wear (But Too Big for Startups)
Blanks, based in Montreal, is a powerhouse in the promotional apparel space. They’re known for supplying Nike, The North Face, and other big brands with branded gear. Their catalog is massive—longsleeves, sweaters, hats, bags. Everything you’d need for a corporate event, team uniform, or giveaway campaign.
They’re strong in logistics, have fast turnaround times, and their customer service is top-notch. I’ve used them for large B2B orders—up to 5,000 units—with zero issues.
But here’s the reality: they’re built for volume. Their MOQs are high—usually 200 units per style, and often more. Lead times? 4–6 weeks. And their pricing isn’t competitive for small batches.
If you’re a startup trying to launch your first collection with 100 units, Blanks is not for you. They’re not set up for flexibility. They’re set up for scale.
So unless you’re working with a company that needs 1,000 branded t-shirts for a conference, skip them. Save your energy for partners who speak your language—like Fexwear, who can handle small runs with the same quality.
7. VS Tees
Best for Comprehensive Services (But Only If You Need Printing)
VS Tees is a family-run operation in LA that’s all about customization. They do screen printing, embroidery, heat transfer—everything. They treat clients like family. And honestly? That warmth shows in the work.
Their key products—joggers and T-shirts—are solid. Durable. Comfortable. And their printing services? Top-tier. I’ve seen their embroidery hold up after 50 washes with zero fading.
But here’s the kicker: they’re not a blank apparel manufacturer. They’re a customizer. You bring the blanks, they add your design.
That means if you want to source your own fabric, cut, and sew—great. But if you need a full-service partner who handles everything from design to delivery? VS Tees isn’t it.
Also, their MOQs are higher than average—200 units per style. And their lead times? 5–7 weeks.
So if you’re looking for a one-stop shop that does everything, including sourcing the blank base, VS Tees won’t cut it. But if you already have a design and just need it printed on high-quality blanks, they’re a solid choice.
8. Blankteeshirts
Best for Ethical and Sustainable Options (But Pricey)
Blankteeshirts, based in Brisbane, Australia, is a leader in sustainable apparel. They’re part of Vescovato Pty Ltd and focus on ethical production, low environmental impact, and social responsibility.
Their main products—longsleeves and hoodies—are made from recycled materials, organic cotton, and ECONYL®. They’re certified by GRS, OEKO-TEX, and others.
This is where they shine: if sustainability is core to your brand, Blankteeshirts is a great partner.
But here’s the trade-off: price. Their fabrics cost more. A recycled polyester hoodie might run $18 vs. $12 at a standard factory. And their MOQs? 100 units minimum.
I’ve seen startups try to launch with Blankteeshirts, only to realize they couldn’t afford the margins. One client almost quit because their retail price had to be $65 just to break even.
So yes—go green if you can afford it. But don’t let ethics blind you to economics. Balance is key.
And if you’re unsure what fabric to choose? Check out our detailed fabric guide . It breaks down everything—from moisture-wicking to recyclability—so you can make informed choices.
4 Tips That Actually Matter (From the Field)
Let’s wrap this up with the real stuff—the things I wish I knew when I started.
1. Never Trust a Swatch Alone
You see a fabric swatch. It feels soft. Looks perfect. But that’s not the real world. I’ve seen dozens of cases where a “perfect” swatch turned into a fabric that pilled after one wash. Always test samples from the beginning, middle, and end of the roll. Use the 3-Zone Test—it’s saved me from disaster more than once.
2. Demand Certifications (and Verify Them)
“Sustainable” means nothing without proof. Ask for GOTS, GRS, Bluesign, or OEKO-TEX. And don’t just accept a PDF. Request the certificate number and verify it online.
3. Know Your Denier
Polyester blends dominate sportswear. But not all polyester is equal.
- 15D–25D: Lightweight tops (30–40 washes)
- 30D–50D: Universal sportswear (50–70 washes)
- 60D–75D: Heavy-duty bottoms (80+ washes)
Stick to 78–82% polyester with 18–22% spandex. That’s the sweet spot.
4. Pre-Shipment Checks Are Non-Negotiable
Before you pay, run these tests:
- GSM verification: Weigh 10 random samples
- Shade banding: Unroll 3 yards continuously—no color shifts
- Stretch recovery: Must bounce back >95%
- Seam slippage: No fraying under tension
These aren’t optional. They’re your insurance.
Final Thought
Ugh. I’m done. My brain hurts from typing all this. But if one thing sticks—don’t rush. Pick your partner like you’re choosing a co-founder. Because they are.
Now, tell me—what’s your biggest challenge right now?
Are you struggling with fabric quality? MOQs? Sustainability? Or just figuring out where to start?
Drop your story below. Let’s keep this conversation going. I read every comment. And if you’re ready to take the next step, contact us at Fexwear . We’re here to help—no fluff, just real answers.
FAQs
Q: How do I know if a fabric will hold up after washing?
A: Look for moisture-wicking, anti-shrinkage, and color retention. Run the RET test (Resistance to Evaporation)—values under 15 are excellent. We’ve seen this in 3 factories we audit annually.
Q: Can I really get a low MOQ with a real manufacturer?
A: Yes—Fexwear starts at 50 units. Some others charge 500+. It’s not magic. It’s about being strategic.
Q: Is recycled polyester as durable as virgin?
A: GRS-certified recycled polyester now matches virgin in performance. The difference? Only a 10–15% premium. Retailers pay 25–30% more for certified items.
Q: What’s the worst mistake new brands make?
A: Skipping QC. One startup lost $220K because they didn’t test stretch recovery. Simple fix—now we require it in every contract.
Q: Do I need to worry about certifications?
A: Absolutely. Major retailers now require GOTS, GRS, or Bluesign. Skip them, and you’re locked out.
Q: Where can I learn more about fabric choices?
A: Check out our fabric recommendations —it’s our most-used resource. We’ve updated it with real-world data from 37 wholesale accounts.