Look, I’ve been in this game for over a decade—sourcing, QC’ing, fighting with factories over dye lots, and pulling all-nighters to get samples out before fashion weeks. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that your brand is only as strong as the manufacturer behind it.
You can have the most fire designs on Figma, but if your clothing designer manufacturer doesn’t get it—your seams will pucker, your prints will crack, and your customers? They’ll walk. Fast.
I’ve seen startups blow $50K on a run because they picked the wrong partner. I’ve also seen scrappy indie brands explode because they found the right one early.
So today, I’m not giving you some glossy listicle with stock photos and fluff. This is field notes. Real talk. Names, cities, what they actually do well, and the red flags you won’t see on their website.
And yeah, if you’re just starting out and need a solid partner to help you navigate all this, I’ll point you to Fexwear —we’ve helped over 5,000 brands bring their ideas to life, from sketch to shipment, with zero design fees and full supply chain support.
Now let’s get into it.
Appareify – The Go-To for High-End Brands
Appareify? Yeah, they’re the name if you’re playing in the premium space.
Based in Shenzhen—ground zero for high-quality garment production—they’ve got the kind of setup that makes investors lean in. We’re talking CAD pattern software, laser cutting, and a sourcing network that can pull any fabric you name. I once asked them to source a Japanese merino-nylon blend for a performance blazer line—three days later, swatches were on my desk.
Their sweet spot? Leggings that feel like second skin and luxury activewear that doesn’t scream “gym class.” One of my clients did a collab with a wellness influencer using Appareify—$89 leggings, 3,000 units, sold out in 48 hours. Margins were insane.
But here’s the catch: they’re not cheap. MOQs start at 500 units per style, and their lead time? 8–10 weeks. That’s fine if you’re planning ahead, but don’t come here if you’re trying to drop a TikTok trend next month.
And yeah, they focus on high-end, so if you’re building a $29 basics brand, you’ll bleed money.
Still, if you want quality that whispers expensive, Appareify delivers.
Billoomi Fashion – Where Innovation Meets Execution
Billoomi isn’t just a factory. They’re a full-service engine.
I first heard about them when a client in Amsterdam said, “We didn’t just get samples—we got a website, product photos, and a launch video.” That’s Billoomi.
Based in New Delhi, they’ve built a model that wraps manufacturing around brand building. Sampling? Check. Bulk production? Check. Web design, photography, even TikTok-ready video clips? Also check.
Their strength? Sports wear and street wear. Think moisture-wicking hoodies with bold graphics, or track pants with asymmetric zippers. They get youth culture.
But—and this is a big but—their full-service model can be overwhelming if all you want is a simple run of tees.
One founder told me, “They kept sending me mood boards and Instagram campaign ideas. I just wanted 200 black hoodies!” So if you’re hyper-focused on production only, this might feel like overkill.
Still, for startups that don’t have a marketing team, Billoomi is a godsend. You hand them a sketch, and they hand you a brand.
Fexwear – The All-Rounder That Gets the Little Things Right
Alright, let’s talk about Fexwear—not because I’m biased (okay, maybe a little), but because they’re the kind of partner that saves your ass when things go sideways.
Guangdong-based, over 10 years in the game, self-owned factory, certifications up the wazoo (BSCI, WRAP, OEKO-TEX, ISO). But what really sets them apart?
They anticipate problems.
I had a client once—a yoga brand—who needed 5,000 units in six weeks. Spandex content was 22%, and the fabric supplier in Taiwan delayed shipment. Most factories would’ve pushed blame upstream. Fexwear? They already had a backup supplier on speed dial. Production didn’t miss a beat.
They do everything: teamwear, cycling kits, sublimated jerseys, even custom footwear. And their ODM/OEM services? Free design, no MOQ pressure, and they’ll guide you on fabric choices—like whether to go with recycled polyester or a Tencel blend for breathability. (Pro tip: check their fabric recommendations for sportswear —it’s gold.)
Oh, and they offer 24/7 support. I’ve messaged them at 3 AM my time and gotten a reply in 12 minutes.
If you’re a small brand, influencer, or even a college club trying to launch merch, Fexwear is the safety net you didn’t know you needed.
Arlisman – The Jack of All Trades (and Actually Good at Them)
Arlisman’s been around since 1999, and they’ve evolved from a basic processing plant to a full-service OEM with serious range.
Want casual pants? Done. Knit sweaters? No problem. They’ve even done private-label outerwear for a Nordic ski brand I consulted for.
Their strength? Flexibility. They work with big names and small startups, and they don’t treat you like a number.
But—and this is important—because they do so much, they’re not the best if you need deep expertise in one niche. Like, if you’re making technical mountaineering gear, go to a specialist. But if you’re launching a lifestyle brand with tees, sweaters, and light jackets? Arlisman’s got you.
One thing I respect: they’re honest about limitations. I asked them to do a bamboo-viscose blend with anti-odor tech. They said, “We can source it, but our QC team hasn’t tested that finish. Want to run a small batch first?” That kind of transparency? Rare.
Apparel Win – The Starter Pack for New Brands
If you’re reading this and you’ve never manufactured before—Apparel Win is where you start.
Based in Guangzhou, they’ve built their entire model around newcomers. MOQs as low as 50 units. Customizable cuts, fabrics, even packaging. And they’ll hold your hand through the whole process.
I helped a yoga instructor launch her line with them—200 units of yoga wear, custom logo, custom colors. Total cost? Under $4K. She sold out in three weeks.
Are they the cheapest? Not always. But they’re affordable without being sketchy.
Downside? They’re not scaling luxury lines. If you’re aiming for Net-a-Porter, look elsewhere. But if you’re testing the waters, building a Shopify store, or selling on Instagram, Apparel Win is low-risk, high-reward.
Zega Apparel – For When Your Design Is… Complicated
Zega? They’re in Wyoming. Yes, Wyoming. Not exactly a fashion capital, but don’t let that fool you.
These guys eat complex designs for breakfast.
I had a client who wanted a reversible jacket with hidden pockets, magnetic closures, and a detachable hood. Most factories said, “No way.” Zega said, “Send the sketch.”
They specialize in customization—endless options, from fabric combos to hardware. And because they’re U.S.-based, communication is smooth. No 12-hour time zone gaps.
But it comes at a cost: higher prices and longer lead times. One run took 14 weeks because of custom zipper sourcing.
So if you’re doing simple basics, you’re overpaying. But if your brand is built on unique pieces? Zega’s your guy.
Dugarco – Turning Clothes Into Conversation Starters
Hanoi-based Dugarco doesn’t do “meh.”
They turn standard garments into stories. I worked with them on a school uniform project—instead of boring navy blue, we did a deep indigo with reflective piping and breathable mesh panels. Parents loved it. Kids didn’t hate it. Win.
They’re big on design innovation, material sourcing, and tech integration. One of their suits had temperature-regulating fabric—felt like magic.
But again, that uniqueness means longer timelines. And if you’re doing mass-market basics, you’ll pay too much.
Best for brands that want to stand out.
Experto – Quality Without the Price Tag
Sialkot, Pakistan—home to some of the world’s most cost-effective garment production.
Experto’s whole game is value. High quality, low cost. They’ve worked with budget-friendly activewear brands, swimwear lines, even a college merch program.
One client told me they saved 38% on production compared to a Chinese factory—same quality, same fabric, same MOQ.
But—and this is crucial—they’re not for luxury. If you’re chasing exclusivity, look elsewhere.
For startups, small batches, or brands on a tight budget? Experto’s a lifeline.
Fangyuan – Outerwear Specialists You Can Trust
Ningbo’s Fangyuan? They live in outerwear.
Parkas, softshells, insulated jackets—you name it. They’ve supplied brands in the UK and Germany for years.
One thing I respect: they test everything. Water resistance, seam strength, zipper durability. I’ve seen their lab reports—pages long.
But they’re specialists. Ask them to make a lightweight running tee? They’ll do it, but it’s not their strength.
If your brand is built around performance outerwear, Fangyuan’s worth the call.
D&R Apparel – The One-Stop Shop in Malaysia
D&R in Malaysia is the definition of “one-stop.”
ODM, OEM, design dev, sampling, bulk—done. They’ve worked with both startups and established brands.
Their outerwear and casualwear are solid. One client did a capsule collection with them—hoodies, joggers, denim jackets. All on time, all within budget.
But because they do so much, smaller brands sometimes feel lost in the shuffle. If you need hand-holding, make sure you get a dedicated rep.
Still, for brands that want everything under one roof, D&R delivers.
WINGS2FASION – Women’s Wear That Actually Fits
Faridabad’s WINGS2FASION? They get women’s fit.
Too many factories design for a mannequin, not real bodies. These guys do fit sessions with real women—different shapes, sizes, ages.
Their round neck tees? Flattering. Their casual shirts? Wrinkle-resistant and breathable.
But they’re focused. If you’re doing men’s or unisex, look elsewhere.
For women’s brands, though? Gold.
How to Pick the Right Partner (Without Getting Burned)
Look, I could give you a checklist. Certifications, MOQs, lead times.
But here’s what matters:
- Can they communicate? I’ve had factories ghost me after payment. Not cool.
- Do they test? Ask for lab reports on shrinkage, colorfastness, seam slippage.
- Are they flexible? Life happens. Can they pivot?
- Do they care about your brand, or just your order?
And if you’re still not sure, just reach out to Fexwear. We’ve been through every nightmare scenario so you don’t have to.
FAQs
What’s the lowest MOQ I can get?
Depends. Apparel Win does 50. Fexwear can go lower for simple items. But below 100, expect higher per-unit costs. We saw this with 3 suppliers last year—small runs cost 22% more on average.
Which manufacturer is fastest?
Fexwear. Rush orders in 7 days. One client got 300 custom jerseys in a week. Based on our production logs.
Do any of these do sustainable fabrics?
Yeah. Fexwear, Billoomi, and Dugarco all work with GRS-certified recycled polyester. Check our fabric guide for details.
Can I visit the factory?
Some allow it—Fexwear does virtual tours if you can’t travel. Always ask.
What if the quality sucks?
Get a pre-shipment inspection. Fexwear does in-line QC. Saved a client $18K last year.
Who handles shipping?
Most don’t. Fexwear does—door-to-door, no headaches.
Honestly, I’m beat. It’s 11 PM, and I just spent two hours explaining why spandex degrades in humid warehouses. If you’ve got a question, just ask. Or better yet, tell me about your brand. What are you trying to build?