How to become a lingerie designer — Getting Started
July 26, 2006 by Danae
Getting started – Can I start my own label?
So, you want to become a lingerie designer. You’ve seen all the amazing pieces from around the world, have had your fantastic idea, and now all you need is to make it a reality. But how in the world does anyone break into this industry? This series aims to help guide aspiring designers through the confusing maze of the lingerie industry, from where to find good research materials to how to find stockists. The series will run over five parts, covering these topics:
- Getting started – Can I start my own label?
- Learning to design lingerie
- Manufacturing your lingerie
- Getting in the stores
- Marketing your new label
In this first instalment, we get started with the basics – Can I start my own label? What’s involved in working as a lingerie designer? What sort of expenses should I expect, and what sort of work will I do day-to-day?
To find the answers, we’ve quizzed designers around the world, and will be putting special focus on one particular designer: Pamela Joseph, a new designer just starting out with her own range. We’ll follow Pamela’s progress throughout the series, from sketch to sale.
Finding your niche
The first step to building your own label is to think carefully about your collection, and what distinguishes it from everyone else’s. No doubt you’ve already got an idea in your mind of what your label would like to focus on – maybe your line is a new luxury range of pajamas, or a line of cheeky new knickers. Whatever the idea is, the first step is to identify what niche you want to fill in the market, and find out what other brands (if any) are currently filling that niche.
Go with what you know
So how do you find that special niche? In many cases, it’s best to go with what you know. In Pamela’s case, she went with designer larger-cup lingerie, and area of the market usually filled with boring beige and white bras. Pamela’s line brings colour, design, and personality up to cup size M, allowing larger-cup women to indulge in something a bit more unique. Pamela knew about this unfulfilled niche because she wore large cups herself, and personally experienced the lack of variety within lingerie brands. Other large-cup designers like Miss Mandalay and Jodi Gallaer had the same experience, deciding to enter larger-cup sizes after finding nothing that suited their own styles.
Going with what you know is an excellent way to define your niche, as you have a head start in defining your target-market, and can market yourself as an authority in that niche. The Internet allows you great freedom in targeting a very small niche, so don’t be scared to really get specific about what makes you special. Brands like Nippies (designer nipple pasties), Classy Bride, and NuBra (adhesive strapless bras) all do very well catering to one need. You can focus on just making the perfect strapless bra for brides, the perfect push-up bra for smaller sizes, whatever need you’re trying to fulfil This doesn’t mean that your label can’t grow later on, but defining your core selling point early on will help focus your marketing and targeting during your first years of business.
Do your research
Once you’ve got a good idea of what niche you’d like to fulfil, it’s time to start checking out the industry. The first place to start is within your defined niche, to see who (if anyone) is offering similar products to your own. You can start your research online – just define the key words for your niche, i.e. large-cup lingerie and start wading through the results. It’s not terribly glamorous, but a few hours of Googling can very quickly help you get your bearings.
Browse through exhibitor’s lists
Another great place to start is the exhibitors list for lingerie shows, such as Lingerie Americas, Harrogate, and the Lyon/Paris trade shows. The exhibitors are broken down into categories such as Underwear, Foundation, Sleepwear, etc., so you can quickly browse to find brands within your market. All of these shows list their exhibitors (usually with a website) on their main website.
Get lingerie industry publications on a budget
After identifying some of the brands within your target area, branch out a bit more to see how this market fits within the larger industry. There are a number of publications specifically for the lingerie industry, the big ones being Lingerie Buyer, Underlines, Contours, and Women’s Wear Daily. Don’t immediately spend a small fortune on subscriptions to all these magazines, as you’ll simply waste money upfront when it might not be necessary – many of these magazines are available for free if you dig around. Here are a couple of ways to grab a free copy before you subscribe:
• Look for the publisher’s website to see if they offer a free sample copy (Lingerie Buyer offers this).
• Check out a local library to see if they carry the publication – if you strike out, look in a nearby university’s library, as they’re more likely to carry the publication for their students.
• Go and visit a local lingerie boutique, and ask if you can leaf through their copy. It’s a great way to introduce yourself to a potential stockist, and will get you started in all-important industry networking.
Once you get your hands on a free copy, check out the publication to make sure it has the information you need, then look to subscribe. Even then, don’t just fill in the form – many publications will offer discounts during trade shows or if you pre-register online, so call up the publication and ask about discounts throughout the year. You can easily save 20% off your subscription by just asking. If you don’t mind reading online, some publications (like Women’s Wear Daily) also offer a reduced rate for online subscriptions.
Network, Network, Network!
Trade publications will be a great resource for familiarising yourself with the industry, but nothing is more valuable than good old-fashioned networking. Pamela cites networking as her most important tool in these first steps, citing trade shows such as Lyon/Paris and Harrogate as invaluable for establishing connections, finding out about her market, and just learning the tricks of the trade.
Get thee to a trade show!
Trade shows are the vital meet-and-greet locations for the lingerie industry, getting together designers, retailers, and even the textile industry in some cases. The major shows in Europe are Paris (early in the year), Lyon (in the summer), and Harrogate UK (both early and summer). In the US, Lingerie Americas in New York is a major event, and there’s also a show in Las Vegas. If you’ve never been to a lingerie trade show, they can be pretty intimidating on a first trip, and not without their set of unspoken rules. Photography is strictly regulated at trade shows to prevent design theft, and you’ll find that many labels will create closed-box displays governed by a mean-looking receptionist to prevent prying eyes from seeing their new collection. At Knickers, we’ve always found the “new designers” section of these shows the most open to chatting and swapping ideas – in Lyon and Paris, look for the “Spicy Garden” section, or check your trade show booklet for a similar area. Some designers may still be understandably wary about potential competition nosing around their collection, so try haunting the cafés and other coffee/eating areas around the show, and approach designers in a more relaxed environment. We’ve found the lingerie industry to be incredibly friendly, and many designers will go out of their way to help you out or point you in the right direction.
Keep track of your contacts
People will be your most valuable asset in any business, so take care to keep track of people you meet and note their information. Over time, this contact list will serve as an invaluable tool to help you find suppliers, ask questions, and generally do your business. A simple Excel spreadsheet can get you a long way in keeping track of contact phone numbers and e-mails, or you could keep it as simple as a Rolodex. Gentry Lane of Gentry de Paris has three massive Rolodexes she hauls to trade shows, full of cards she’s been collecting since she started out in business. Unless you’re already using it, resist the temptation to splurge on expensive CRM software, and find a method for recording contacts that will easily fit into your activities so you’re sure to always do it.
Join networking groups
Many cities will have specific groups dedicated to just getting together to network – here in Edinburgh we have Magpie, a monthly get-together of a variety of businesspeople where everyone can just mingle and swap business cards. It’s a great way to make connections without feeling awkward about whipping out your business card, and is usually a lot of fun too. Every business will need a variety of support, from finding a cheap accountant to looking for manufacturing or a PR agency, and these events are perfect for making those connections. Try looking around Craigslist for your city or search for “networking events,” and then just sign up for the first meeting. You never know who you’ll meet or what you’ll gain from the event, but you’re guaranteed to do better than if you hadn’t gone at all!
Find some support
Once you’ve defined your niche and got a good idea of the industry around it, you can seriously start thinking about how your business will operate and finish off your business plan. You don’t have to have a business plan, but it’s a good idea, if for no other reason than to help you focus your goals and consider all the aspects of your business. Luckily, you can find a lot of support for these initial steps in planning out your business, and maybe can even get a little start-up capital.
UK business support
In the UK, Pamela had a wide range of support available, and cited Business Link as a favourite resource while getting started. The Business Gateway, the Prince’s Trust and Business Link are all fantastic resources for getting you started down your path. These services are free to help develop new businesses in the UK, and have a wide variety of tools to get you started. You can take questionnaires to help you define which areas of business you need to focus your efforts on, can download sample business plans to get an idea of how they work, and can meet with a business advisor to help you write your plan and get you connections in your first year. The old adage of “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know” is still true, so these business mentors during these first steps can help you make important connections and guide you away from early mistakes.
If you’re under 25, you may also be able to get a one-time grant of £1000 or a low-interest loan from these support services – but promise us you won’t spend it on stationary! Check out the Business Gateway and Prince’s Trust for more information.
US business support
In the United States, the Small Business Administration is the first stop for free advice and support, offering a variety of guides on what to consider when first starting your business. Your local Chamber of Commerce will also serve as an invaluable resource, offering you support and connections with fellow local businesses to help you get started. For resources within the fashion industry, large-cup designer Jodi Gallaer recommends the Garmet Industry Development Association, and Fashion Incubators from both Dallas and Toronto. Each resource is specific to its area, but the general information will prove valuable for all readers. Similarly, the Fashion Incubator blog is a fantastic resource for all designers, giving practical advice and offering a friendly environment for conversation.
Small business grants in the US are much more decentralised than the UK, and there are a variety of federal and state grants that you can apply for. The Small Business Administration has a list to help you get started, but your Chamber of Commerce should be able to point you in the right direction as well. Don’t be shy about asking for help, that’s what these organisations are there for!
Start planning your expenses
In your business plan, you’ll need to outline a rough idea of expenses in your first stages of business – we found that for Pamela, her biggest initial expenses were production of samples and travel. Attending trade shows will be an important first step in starting your own label, so you should budget for a trip to New York, the UK or France for the biggest western shows. These shows happen twice a year (once for Spring/Summer, once for Autumn/Winter), so plan ahead and book your tickets early to cut down costs. Also take advantage of the discounted reservation option these trade shows offer for hotel rooms, but again be sure to get in there early. Go ahead and sign up for frequent flyer programs as well, because between trade shows and visiting your manufacturers, travel’s going to be a pretty important part of your business!
All this talk about business, and we haven’t even started on the lingerie yet! Our next article, “Learning to design lingerie,” will go into the details about how to learn this difficult craft and how to find the resources you’ll need to support you. Until then, good luck with your first steps!
We are currently working on the next chapters for this series and hope to bring these to you very soon. In the meantime you can contact us if you have any questions!
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just wanted to add that getting lingerie manufactured in China is the cheapest way to go, it seems. I plan on doing it soon.
does anyone know of any good manufacturers? i am struggling to find any!
wel i m a 20 yr old grl 4rm kol, ovr here i have seen girls shopping their lingeri 4m the street shops which is vry cheap in quality, they give a vry odd shape to the breast, so i want to design for those girls who can purchase their bras in vry low cost, but it will give them a perfect shape.. and their body will look walla……….
Knicker Girls,
Danae:
Your series of articles aren’t all here. This is it! What happened. I really want to read all of it. The next article is partial. You stated in this article “Our next article, “Learning to design lingerie,” will go into the details about how to learn this difficult craft and how to find the resources you’ll need to support you. Until then, good luck with your first steps! ” Please let me know where I can read the entire series. I noticed on the second article others have had the same problem. It is so interesting know we are frusterated. It’s good, must have, helpfull info. Help us out!!!!
Nicole
Lisa,
Anyone can answer this that has an accurate answer. When you say China is the cheapest, can you narrow that down a bit? Like how do you comparison shop? Where do you find the manufacturers? How do they give you a price since each item is somewhat different? Where do you get material, lace etc. suppliers? I am researching like crazy and I'm not coming up with anything helpful. What information can you give me on starting. I am starting from scratch! Do you have to sketch your stuff and make a sample one, do you sketch it and send it to a pattern maker? Where do you get sizing information? Where do you get things like underwire for bras and things? Any help that anyone can be I would really appreciate. I want to start right away. Anyone know how much it takes roughly to start? Do most manufacturers in other countries speak english — fairly good? How do you get a trademark or copyright the name of your line? Does anyone know how to be a retailer of adult toys also?
Thanks for any help!!
Nicole
We are a lingerie manufacturing company in China. Please contact us for more info.
If the price is the object of your research you’d be better of manufacturing in China. You can’t beat 5$ a day labor cost and with good marketing the sky is your limit. I mean, look at Victoria’s Secrets new Italian line, even though the label says “Made in China” I’m sure it means made in little Italy in Shanghai or little China in Rome or was it some of the Chinese laborers speak Italian? Well, anyway, my point is that with a good marketing plan you’ll sell snow to Santa Claus on a Christmas Day. Why not, every other little thing made in China. But, if quality is on top of your list you might want to look a little harder. Depends on how you visualize your line, what standards you want to set. Do you want to take pride in your product? I do. It’ll take a little longer to get on your feet, but as soon as the customer realize what you’re selling, he’ll keep coming back to you and it’ll worth it in the end. The easiest way to start manufacturing would probably be to find a Chinese manufacturer (online, trade shows), find a good selling lingerie line, change some details, threads, colors, etc. and start the production. They can make really good replicas. I’d ask for some samples first, catalogs, definitely, referrals, the company has to be established. By all means, I am not an expert and I don’t manufacture anything. Just my point of view.
To Anastasia – did you know that when you buy garments with the label “Made in Italy”, it is often so that the item is made elsewhere… but that the very label/tag is produced and sewed on in Italy. It’s a way of making the garments more exclusive… and they don’t lie.. technically.
~ L.
I was wondering if I would need any other type of Business License to get started and would the Manufactors need to see it?
Dear Nicole,
If you are still intrested in your own label or brand, then i think you and me can go together. I am from Pakistan and i can easily provide you turn key solution.
If you are still intrested then do contact with me. I hope everything will become fine.
Thanks.
Omer Salee.
00-92-321-6835589
omersaleem@gmail.com
Hi there all you lingerie designers. I’ve been designing my own lingerie for the past two years. I found business link, to be a complete waste of my time, as they were not taking me seriously and my mentor has said that it is simply a hobby of mine, well maybe intially, but I’m bloody serious and have ploughed plenty of my own money into this. And I still haven’t sold any just yet!! Anyway, I’m just about to start manufacturing my designs. Personally speaking, I don’t
find that China to be all that cheap, considering the distance, time and barriers to communication. You will definitely need a an agent, someone who speaks english at a good level of communication, particularly written. I think also that China has the world’s loin’s share of lingerie manufacturing. What is to stop them from hiking their prices in a few years down the line and holding everyone hostage, because they can. I suggest someone closer to home. They have fantastic lingerie manufacturers in Turkey, Tunisia and Oman of all places. I’m hoping to get mine manufactured in Thailand, where I have seen the manufacturers and have liked what I saw and the price is very competitive. I went on to learn
how to make bras my self in the end, as it was proving to be so expensive for my sample and besides I couldn’t get any one to do the samples for me last year for love or for money. I also visited The America’s Lingerie fair last year in NY. I was quite disappointed by it, it was the same old same old except for one designer whom I hadn’t heard of. But like the article states, find your niche, and don’t give up, we have such a fantastic tool at our fingertips, the internet. I did most of my research on google. If anyone has any specific questions regarding my quest for my own label, then I would be more than happy to answer them if you want to email me on funkpro@gmail.com
Good luck!
Sushy
Hi,
im wondering if any body would know of a good lingerie design course to go?
im based in london and am searching around but can only find a limited choice!
many thanks guys x
Hi Amanda,
There are a couple of courses at the London College of Fashion
a beginners course for lingerie and swimwear and a lingerie workshop – hopefully this will help, but let us know if you need any other information!
Alison
I would also like to know what happened to the rest of the articles – I am very keen on designing lingerie and swimwear.
I have found a fantastic site on stretch fabric pattern making – http://www.patternschool.com. I am now looking for something similar for lingerie designing. Anyone?
Hi where can i find a Manufactor or designer in turkey?
Here is one of the best sources to actually start a lingerie business. It’s called LingerieAnswers.com I’ve been in the industry and this would help anyone who’s starting. Visit http://www.lingerieanswers.com/lingerie/index.html
please i support nicole in her enquires. how do i get materials, etc to start
i live in nigeria so i too want know.
I have connections in India who would be happy to provide manufacturing of your designs, I am based in the UK and run a couple of businesses here and will be only too happy to venture into a new business with a serious person.
I can help with production, packaging and shipping to the UK ready for selling. You would need to be able to have a marketing plan and be able to show how you will sell the products and who to.
I can get the products manufactured in small quantaties to start with and should cost us very little to get the business moving.
If you are serious about the business then contact me and we can work out a plan to get a production run made and shipped ready for market testing.
If you think you could work with someone like me then get in touch with your proposal.
email your proposal or business plan to ram@ponex.co.uk
Hi everyone,
I am starting my own lingery brand, however I am seeking for a highly talented lingery designer.
I have a business finance background, so I am looking for a creative partner in the business I am setting up.
I am based in London.
If you think you are very talented in designing lingerie or have a lot of knowledge regarding the manufacturer side.
Please contact me on carolinevanloon@hotmail.com
Kind regards
Caroline
starting a new line underwear need manufacture.Thanks Leslie
I’ve heard Vietnam also has low manufacturing costs.
I’m starting a lingerie business in India. If there are exporters from China, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Thailand on this forum; would be happy to connect to them.
Please contact me on mansilalsawant@rediffmail.com
I am going to be starting a small, luxury lingerie line to be sold online (and hopefully in stores later on) and need someone who is able to manufacture my designs at low-cost.
Please contact me on e.puleston@hotmail.co.uk
Thank you
Want to be a designer? you need to love the product!
And to keep the quality high you must have control over the production.
If you are in the UK have it made in the UK, USA, make it there.
Quality without compromise keep it close and love what you do.
If anyone needs a freelance lingerie designer, I have great ideas, please get in touch!
I’m fr graphic art design, advertising background, I don’t know why I’m always passionate to start off designing my own lingerie label somewhat in future and make a 1st appearance in my local scene, now i’m researching to start of my foundation in lingerie design.
Btw, I based in Malaysia. Manufacture wise i think still ok. Anyone could kindly share and advise me do email me ya
hello, my name is kari an i am in the process of designing an selling my own lingerie line! can u give me any tips such as step by step to being successful an wht i can expect to pay a clothing manufaturer to start with a small bulk of clothing? any information would be greatly appreciated! thank you!
I am starting my own business, will run a small callection early 2010, I have my own designs and will manufacture them in Colombia SA, is probably just as cheap than china but i feel quality is better.. I think China and vietnam are for the big picture as far as production, not for starters, though I found Colombia to be very competitive in the industry..
hi,I am from China mainland and is making some different lingeries in styles .I have lower cost and hign quality and high reputation.welcome to give cooperation to me .I trust I should be a honesty friend with each other.
my msn:queenpen@live.cn.I am waiting for you .
Fantastic article. I wish I’d have had this kind of information before I started designing Lingerie, would have saved me years of heart ache. I design for a large company now (won’t name them) but still long to go it alone.
Might just try again……
Thanks
Message for Annika – you said you’re a freelance lingerie designer – fantastic! I’m looking for someone with wisdom in lingerie design to help me. Would it be possible to talk on email please? I’m on joy.matthews@dmwgroup.co.uk Thanks in advance – Joy
Hi Amanda,
http://www.lingeriemasterclasses.blogspot.com/
I went to a workshop last October , which was fun and very professional.
They also do offer corsetry workshops etc.
http://www.morleycollege.ac.uk started running some basic lingerie classes, since last summer.
I wonder if anybody could give some feedback on De Montfort University?
Courses are rather pricy, so is it worth it?
cheers
Hi everyone, I started my own website a few months ago as a retailer, however I am also looking into designing and manufacturing my own range. I have lots of great ideas but I’m in need of help to find a manufacturing company in the UK and starting my own lingerie label. If anyone has any advise on this I would be most grateful.
Best wishes
A-M x
Also does anyone know of places online that sell unusual high quality fabric?
Thanks
A-M x
Hello I made my lingerie and sold it in my own store now I am looking to do it with another party I can't sew anymore and have a great lingerie line that nobody has out there yet! I have been to numerous shows and again nothing is out there I would like to run with somebody if you are intrested.. drop me a line hellogorgius@comcast.net many Thanks,
I have been a successful lingerie designer for 20 years, and I would be glad to help any aspiring designer – I have a new blog dedicated to it
http://francessmily.com/how-to-become-a-lingerie-…
I'd be glad to answer any questions….
Hi there i am interested in getting some bra set samples made up, please advise me on how you could help me in any way. Kindest Regards, Jayne.
Please e mail me at ladyjb9905@yahoo.co.uk
Hi,
Can you email me on dishi.kaur@gmail.com so that we can discuss further. I am very interested.
Thanks
Hi Nicole.
Do you still need a manufacturer?
I am a freelance lingerie specialist and am in the processs of setting up a small lingerie production line in South East London.
If you are based in the UK then this can be beneficial to you in regards to communication and travel. I aim to build the bridge between sample runs and bulk production in eastern countries, being flexible in timescale and quantities.
I understand the difficulty in finding suppliers and and various info. Once graduated In Contour Fashion I began producing a label for a couple of boutiques, I had the sames struggles as you because fabric manufacturers require minimum orders of 400 or more meters of lace etc. Theres a fabric and trimmings supplier I go to who has helped me a lot and is based in the UK if you want his details. Theres also another great trimming supplier in the UK.
I won't ramble on.
If you need a lingerie or corsetry pattern cutter, grader, seamstress, designer etc or to learn any more about what I do then please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Regards
Maxine
maxine.wells23@googlemail.com
Hi Bea,
I went to DMU and absolutley loved it. It's the most advanced course in the world, and industry specialists, even when from another country, are impressed when you tell them where you graduate from. Not that I'm saying it's a definate path to success as the industry is small but you definatly stand a little further from the crowd when you have the title.
There was mixed opinions from my course mates, some saying it was badly run etc but I think most Uni's are, according to friends of other uni's.
I'm really happy I went as you gain really broad skills and cover everything. You also get live breifs which involve producing collections for well known companies with the possibility of getting your stuff into production.
Hope this helps, maybe someone else can give their opinion on it too….
Max
I provide a wide range of lingerie services with my own london based studio. I aim to have a small lingerie production line up and running in a month or two . Contact me: maxine.wells23@googlemail.com to discuss.
Regards,
Maxine
Hi does anyone know of lingerie construction classes in New York?
Hi Frances,
I saw your website and your collections are beautiful.
I want tips and advise on becoming a lingerie designer. How do I start?
my email address is……talk2nabs@hotmail.com
Thank you
Yes, you can go to Exotic Silks exoticsilks.com
Hello Annika. Where do you live?
hi all, I'm looking for a female lingerie disgner, she may reach me at : saudi-broker@hotmail.com
Thanks
Hi, anybody out there have experience in designing a Bra..? with matching briefs…. We are looking for a stylist/ designer for a new line..
Contact me.. please.
jlvforu@hotmail.com
Hi. I represent a Lingerie Manufacturing company based in Noida(next to Delhi) in India. We specialise in manufacturing high end upmarket lingerie products like Knickers, Babydoll dresses, Cami, Bras, bedjackets etc. We are already manufacturing for our clients in Australia and France. We have added on our production capacity and are looking for new clients. Please drop in an email at kdcpl@airtelmail.in . Thanks, Gagan
Hi, I am planning to open my boutique in Montreal, Canada, and I want to offer my clients some "soft cup" bras, at a resonable cost. You can reach me at fstamour76@hotmail.com for more info.
Hello everyone. My name is Ashley and I am 22 years old. I have been working in the lingerie business for several years now and have decided that I would love to design bras myself. Though I thrive in retail, I feel I would be better suited for the design process. I have so many ideas for bra designs its insane, however I have absolutely no idea how to make my designs into a reality. I am from a very small town in Tennessee and there are no resources here to help fuel my dream. If anyone has any advice or suggestions for me please do not hesitate to tell me! Best wishes.
hi prerna,
i am looking for designers contacts me at subhasish.kolkata@yahoo.com
hi Annika
I was looking for a good designer you can contact me at subhasish.kolkata@yahoo.com
Hello my name is Mia And i looking for a lingerie manufacture please contact me with your information. my email address is miaakilah@gamil.com thank you ,
mia
You are looking to start up a lingerie online store, well its not as easy as it seems, alot
of good and bad quesitons to ask yourself, if you have found a supplier the first thing you should do is google them, with google maps as this is a sure way to find out if they are for real, so many people have sent money to companys they have never checked out and lose the lot, with google maps, you can find out where they are what type of area they are in and if its going to be a spam.
By doing this way you will find out if they are on a housing estate or work from a flat.
its the easyest way to find out where they are and cost nothing, at trade lingerie google us on google earth with the post code ox25 6hx and you will see what i mean, we sell lingerie and costumes, and sell all over the world. we can be found athttp://www.trade-lingerie.com
we import lingerie ie corsets babydolls and costumes from china if you are interested you can have a look at our sitehttp://www.trade-lingerie.com
london college of fashion do a summer course- morley college do a weekend pattern course
Hi
I am a lingerie designer been in the industry for just over three years. I work for a supplier designing lingerie for one of the UK largest retailers. Would love to start my own label but dont currenly have the start up funds. I am looking for a new challege, I am currenly working part time designing, sourcing fabric and working with factories in china and sri lanka. im looking for a new challege, if anyone would like a part time designer or would like to work on starting a label. feel free to contact me- natalie
nataliepaul50@hotmail.com
Hi Annika, I am looking for a freelance designer that I can work with possibly over a long period of time. I have already sourced materials (haven't seen it used in lingeri before) and it will be very easy to source manufacturing bases. I know how they operate, I have good contacts in China and speak Chinese. I am looking at sleep wear primarily eg. babydolls.
I need some designs and some help with material selsction so designs can be sent and samples made, then when they come in some QC. Maybe there will be more opportunity than just freelance work in the future.
Contact me on 07950859338 or email rbutchins@live.co.uk
Best wishes
Robert
hi were are you based- im looking for soe freelance work been designing lingerie for four years
Natalie i have sent you an email can you read it and either reply by email or by phone.
Thanks
Terry
sonyblueray@hotmail.com
Hi Francis
I am looking to get started to and would very much like some advise on getting samples made up and how to promote the product.
Thanks
Terry
sonyblueray@hotmail.com
I am looking for someone with the knowledge of the lingerie business to work with on creating a new label if anyone is interested.
Sonyblueray@hotmail.com
I am planning on starting a lingerie retail store and am looking for suppliers. I’m in Harare,Zimbabwe. Manufacturers out there,here’s your chance to penetrate the Zim market!!!
e-mail me on plaxie06@yahoo.ca
I am looking for a lingerie designer all that is is required is their expertise and knowledge so i am able to start a new label and brand.
The financial side and costs i will take care of.
i can be contacted at sonyblueray@hotmail.com
Thanks.
Hello All,
I am in the process of starting an online lingerie business catering to a specific niche. I have had much difficulty finding quality manufacturers that can make my designs, or that have some designs that I could sell.
I have spent several months researching this industry and finding what is needed for my business and the missing piece right now is finding a quality manufacturer that I can work with to produce my designs at a fairly inexpensive price. They would be in small quantities to start..
If anyone has any information that can help, I would be greatly appreciated.
I can be reached at steph76rose@yahoo.com
Kind Regards,
Hi Annika,
Are you still doing your freelance lingerie designing? I'm working on my own line and would love to see your ideas. Are you in India? Email me at javanibeauty@yahoo.com
Thanks,
Ranjna
Hi . I am looking for a corset designer trissha (dot) CA
Hi Annika
I'm starting a new business with bras for a specific market. I am not a designer, but know from experience how I want my bras to look and feel.
Where are you based? I am in UK.
Please email me on Emma.Cook1@hotmail.co.uk
Thanks
Hi
I am looking for a female lingerie designer. I am manufacturing a selection of bras for a specific market but I am not a designer.
If you are freelance please contact me with approximate pricing. Emma.Cook1@hotmail.co.uk
Thanks
Emma
HI SANDY,HOW DO YOU EVEN FIND A MANUFACTURER?
I'd like some prototypes made up for some briefs that I designed. It is not on the market and would like some samples made of it before full manufacturing. Could you do something like this?
What is your e mail Plaxedes?
Hi,
I am a just graduated fashion designer from paris by the end of july I ll be ending 7 month of internship at Chantal Thomass,
I would love to moove to london to start my career in lingerie,
if you are interesting on knowing more about me, please feel free to contact me at: llucia.coralie@gmail.com.
best regard,
coralie
Hi, I am also looking for a manufacture. my email is admin@Msundercover.com
hi all i work with a lingerie manufacturing firm, we are looking to hire the services of a professionally trained patternmaker/ or a pattern making firm dealing specifically with lingerie!
if there is anyone out there who can help by giving some names/ numbers/ site address i would really appreciate. mainly intrested in some body from turkey, sri lanka, thailand/ honkong, or mainly from south east asia.
hope to hear from some one.
hi all i work with a lingerie manufacturing firm, we are looking to hire the services of a professionally trained patternmaker/ or a pattern making firm dealing specifically with lingerie!
if there is anyone out there who can help by giving some names/ numbers/ site address i would really appreciate. mainly intrested in some body from turkey, sri lanka, thailand/ honkong, or mainly from south east asia.
Hi Jane,
Sent you an email. Please get back to me.
Thanks
Hi Tony,
Sent you an email. Please reply.
Hi Natalie,
I sent you an email. Please read and reply.
Thank you
Christine
Hi Terry,
Sent you an email. Please read and reply. Thank you.
Hi Coralie,
Sent you an email. Please read and reply. Thank you
Just to let you all know, we also have Knickers Community where you can also discuss with and meet fellow lingerie lovers and upcoming designers. It's currently free to join – just go to http://knickers.ning.com/
Alison
[...] Want to be a lingerie designer. [...]
Hi my name is Caitlin and I am looking at starting my own lingerie line in Australia. I would like to know the processes of having lingerie manufactured from my designs, as well as whether your manufacturing includes finding the correct materials to make the bras too. Please contact me on caitlin-curran@hotmail.com
Thank you
This is a fantastic blog post and as a lingerie retailer, I must say that whoever wants to be a designer in this business should go ahead and try for it. Ir you aim high enough you're bound to reach the stars!
- Jennie Mazda
hi
thanks.
I would love to become a lingerie designer but i just dont know where to start. If anyone could help or give me some advice i would very much appreciate it
Hello, I'm a lingerie designer and I'm looking for a manufacturer in China, India or Bangladesh and can anybody tell me how it works with materials when you have found a manufacturer??
Do you go over there and they source for everything or do I have to do that from here?? Love to hear from you desigual.outlet@gmail.com LOL, MARELAINE
Hi I sent you an email
I'm 12 and I might pursue a career in lingerie design.
Freelance lingerie, swimwear, loungwear designer – If you need any design services, from colour palettes, trend boards, brand creation, or designing to specific requirements please get in touch. I have over 25 years experience within the industry, supply and brand – email me specialk11@hotmail.co.uk
HI there
Would you be interested in making a maternity and nursing range? It is a high demand area that hardly anyone seems to specialise and those that do have very limited designs… We have a website being built and an investor.
Let me know
Email me on kirstenbannister@hotmail.com
Kirsten
HI there
We (sister and myself) are currently in process of setting up a specialist lingerie line that has been identified to have high demand but lack of products. We are looking for both someone that could design and someone to manufacture.
PLease contact me on here or by my private email kirstenbannister@hotmail.com
many thanks
Kirsten
Hi, We are looking for a manufacturing company in China or elsewhere ? to make our maternity lingerie from our design collection. Please could you email me details to eleanor_ring@yahoo.co.uk
Hi
I am setting up my own online lingerie business and have been trying to source manufactureres fron china, india and hong kong but with little luck. does anyone one any good reputable manufacturers even in uk so i can get started. thanks
ninavaseer@yahoo.co.uk
Highly creative, vast knowledge of the lingerie industry, looking to create own brand label, looking for factory or financial partner to back. Live contacts within the UK retail sector. Please get in touch.
specialk11@hotmail.co.uk
hey guys
we are currently in the process of starting our lingerie line in LA. I know great manufacturers based in Turkey.
find me on twitter @eranacrisz if you have any questions
cheers
Hey,
I am looking for a lingerie manufacturer in China.
Please contact me at malik.nandita@gmail.com
Here's my email address swhapparel.com for large and small cup lingerie
Hello! I have a design for a neiche lingere product that I am confident will make a lot of money. I have the design, patterns and mock ups but now all i need is the funding. Is anyone interested in being in a partnership to help out with the buisness side? email me on kayle_baker@hotmail.com
Thank you
Kayle
Where do I learn here in Nigeria to be a lingerie designer.
Anyone with any idea should please contact me on this email getzenphil@yahoo.com
Please visit our website at http://www.annamu.com. We are seeking for new partnership in the lingerie business which include selections over 3000. If you need further information, kindly send us your inquiry at hengjia@hengjia.com.tw
please visit us at http://www.annamu.com. We are seeking for business partnership to promote your lingerie collection even starting from home. let us know.
Hi Adega,
My name is sartana and my email add is sartanun31@yahoo.com. I live in new-york, please let me know when you find the materials also because, I want to start my own lingerie line also
hi,
i am interested in starting off a company in India. Can you pls respond to me as to the best steps to go about getting started. My contact is aarti0604@gmail.com. thank you!
Hey there,
I am interested in starting a line of lingerie for heavy women like myself who want comfortable coordinates in a variety of colors at a price built for the working poor. I loved the information on the business aspect, because that's where my strengths are, and I can not thank you enough for providing industry specific information. Please keep the information coming on the industry. I look forward to reading more information about this new interest of mine.
Hi,
I am a freelance Lingerie/Swimwear/Sleepwear designer based in the UK.
I have over 7 years experience in design and and have strong technical capabilities to take a product through from initial design concept to a high standard of finished product.
I have great contacts within the industry having worked with suppliers worldwide.
If you are looking for a designer please contact me on kate_anians@hotmail.com
Hi,
I am interested in manufacturing my own line of lingerie,but I need designs.If you can please contact me at sales2lymvana.com maybe we can work together.Thanks
sales@lymvana.com
hey maxine, my names michelle im 19 & from new york, i was browsing on websites to see if any other lingerie company is going to provide what my intentions for designing the lingerie are, and i cant find anything, im new to all of this and i want to some how get my foot in the door, if you can please e-mail me with information on how to get going and how to go about manurfacturing and designing and all that id really really appreciate it! im verry motivated and want to do this terribly. my email is imwhaty0uenvy@aim.com . thanks.. or find me on facebook " michelle donwory "
hey Annika,
i need someone who can sew 2 or 3 product samples of my lingerie line.
please get in touch with me,
thank you!
Hi
Im a retailer of lingerie and adult toys, I own what is known as the oldest naughty shop in the UK called Gwenap. I only purchased the business last oct and have turned it from a seedy sex shop into a burlesque boutique. Ive let my customers guide me on stock and demand and now find myself pulling my hair trying to find sexy large sizes for our burlesque beauties….Ive spent a huge amount of time and effort seeking out both manufacurers and designers. Most of my stock is by small but efficient designers like kiss me deadly, stockings and romance and what katie did. Im looking for similar innovative designs that cater for the larger lady. I would consider making my own design of bullet bras for example but dont have enough hours in the day at the moment. same with Pants, I need sexy designs up to a size 24. Any advise, recommendations or tips greatly appreciated.
Regards Cheryl
Hi Sushy, where are you based? Im a 39 yr ol mom of 4 kids, ex model and want to get into designing lingerie for larger cups, sexy not boring! Are you in the UK and would you consider going into business?
regards
Lisa
hi nicole im doing alil research myself u put up some very interestng questions i can see that it has been a few weeks since u posted this comment how has it been going since?i also am starting from scratch
hi,
do u have a website? pls contact me on susanel22@yahoo.com on how to go about doing business with you. Thanks
Sue
Hi
I would like to introduce http://www.lingeriesamplemaker.co.uk which is a website for the Intimate Apparel and fashion sampling unit, Maxine's Lingerie Creatives.
If you are a start-up designer or a small to medium sized clothing company who would benefit from some additional pattern cutting or sample development then to find out more please click on the link below or email:
enquiries@lingeriesamplemaker.co.uk
http://www.lingeriesamplemaker.co.uk/
Thank you.
hi Ashley
we are intersting to make lingerie factory and looking for some one who can help us for design and production
if you would like to have cooperate with me please e-mail me info@iran-sew.com
looking for a freelance female lingerie design in Botswana.contact:unwrapmaloli@yahoo.co.uk
Hi Mandy;
You can drop your query to my mailbox, so that I can assist you accordingly. pls note I am from Bangladesh and a Lingerie Manufacturer. I also do T-shirts and other knit items. Feel free to contact me at shajeedhossain@yahoo.com
cheers.
Hi,
Hi,
I'm looking for an underwear designer who could turn my idea into a prototype to present to manufacturers.
Looking forward to hearing from you
Aurora
aurorejoua@gmail.com
Hi Estelle,
eventhough your message was posted 94 weeks ago, I am hoping that you will still receive this message. I am viani from Indonesia, and right now I am planning to start a same business like you, but I really dont have any idea where to start or what to look for interms of product design, manufacture, size, etc, since my background is law.
so anyway, i just want to check you out, whether you have opened your business now, and have some tips for me on where to start the business.
If you would kindly contact me on Vinkshome@hotmail.com.
Thank You
Hi we from UK, we manufactor many lingerie http://www.1step2heaven.co.uk
Hi we from UK, we manufactor many lingerie http://www.1step2heaven.co.uk
Hi we from UK, we manufactor many lingerie http://www.1step2heaven.co.uk
Hi we from UK, we manufactor many lingerie http://www.1step2heaven.co.uk
Hi we from UK, we manufactor many lingerie http://www.1step2heaven.co.uk
Hi we from UK, we manufactor many lingerie http://www.1step2heaven.co.uk
hi..
I was actually doing another resarch to find who are the buyers of the Sri Lankan Lingerie products. Stumbled across thi page. I have no formal connections to any one in particular. but I know some people whjo knows factory owners.. I talking of ppl that work to brands…
I can put them through to you. I have no business interest.. Just building the network only… please post or write to info@nanekma.com
Hi there,
I have been running my own online sexy lingerie business very successfully since April of this year when my company was formed, although very new I have found succsess in a niche selling area online and have made some great profits on what I am currently selling.
As of yet I am buying my products wholesale from overseas (not my label, purley wholesale lingerie most of which would be copies from the more expensive USA branded lingerie), however the next stage of my business is to design my own label of lingerie.
I want to brand my whole label around my partner who has and still is a professional glamour model, I feel this will add a touch of mini celeb to my brand and will be another great selling point to edge me away from the crowds so to speak.
So what am I here for.? I am looking to hear from any talented freelance UK lingerie desingers to bring this idea to life, the kind of garments I will be looking to produce will range from elegant corsets through to babydoll/chemises and also my own stocking range.
Due to my dealings in the far east currently I suspect my products will be produced over there although I have not gone as far as sourcing manufactures at this stage.
If you think you are what I'm looking for then do not hesitate to get in touch to discuss in a bit more detail.
Trevor
trev81@me.com
I am looking to get some more information about your prices for woman panties
Hi Everyone,
Our company manufactures a patent antimicrobial fiber which inhibits the growth of any bacteria/viruses. We tested a gym towel that was used everyday, left in the trunk of a car and then tested it after a week only to find that not only was it completely clean, but there was no bacteria or odor left behind. We use this same technology in a respiratory mask used in hospitals.
This could be a great additive to your lingerie brand from a marketing stand point.
Feel free to email me with any questions – Thanks!
ctsatsaronis@fossmfg.com
Any lingerie manufacturer or designer seeking to penetrate the nigerian market should please contact me.
Ikem Valerie
ikemonyebuchi@yahoo.com
Please send mails to the above address
I like the above post for lingerie but you can get Lingerie Discounthere.
I am interested in designing lingerie, it seems that the quality is not out there, or the fit, or the price. Let me know if you are still in the market for a designer.
Hi…
I am looking for some help and advice… I have read through all comments and it seems difficult to find information about manufacturing your own label. I have many ideas but struggling to find a manufacturer. I understand that China is very popular but have also herd that Turkey is great as well .
Please email with any connections ielaine@hotmail.co.uk look forward to hearing from anyone
Regards Elaine
Hi,
I am also an experienced designer who wants to set up her on lingerie brand. I also do freelance lingerie design. But as most of us I'm also having some difficulties. I cannot find any place/shop/wholesaler in the UK who sells good quality french lace.
I' m also looking for an experienced pattern maker. I have found few places who makes samples and production but none of them supply any materials for lingerie.
If anyone could help me with any of these queries, it would be great.
Thanks,
Zuhal
zaksoyy@hotmail.com
try De Monfort University in Leicester – They do specific courses in "Contour Fashion Design"
Nice post. I learn something tougher on completely different blogs everyday. It'll all the time be stimulating to learn content from other writers and follow a little bit one thing from their store. I’d choose to use some with the content on my blog whether or not you don’t mind. Natually I’ll offer you a hyperlink on your net blog. Thanks for sharing.
Hi Annika,
You appear to be in demand, as both myself and business partner are looking for a freelance designer. We have a lot of ideas but need someone who can put this into reality. We only want luxury high end products, ie satins and French lace etc… We are easy going yet determined and motivated. If still interested please reply.
Thanks
Denise
Hi I am thinking about setting up a lingerie line, would you be able to make some prototypes of my designs.
could you please contact me on lil_hayley_2@yahoo.co.uk
Hi Spencer can you please contact me amybeacham89@hotmail.com with some details I am looking for a cheap lingerie manufacturer
Hi Frances, I have seen your website and have been hugely inspired. I am looking for information on manufacturers, do you have any contacts? I would really appreciate your help and would love to hear your story of how you got started. Please contact me amybeacham89@hotmail.com
Thank you xx
Hi All,
My name is Sahil and I am from India. I am planing to start lingeri business but i dont have much idea. I am keenly interested in this business. can someone please help me in starting this business. I want to start this business in Partnership and I am looking for female Business partner who have is familier in this business. If anybody is interested then please contact me on below email id.
sahil23_87@yahoo.com.
Thanks in Advance
hi all
my name is elina and am 25 yrs old and am looking for a good lingerie designer for myself who can design beautiful lingeries in a low budget. you can contact me in this e-mail address as tuli_roy2003@yahoo.com
Hey annika do you have any contact information. I have some great ideas for a hot and trendy lingerie line. I attending the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, San Francisco. I would love to put my skilss to work! I am looking for a free lance lingerie designe to enhance the line! You can contact me at eshi2e@gmail.com. Thank you very much. I look forward to hearing from you.
I am hosting a Ladies Evening at our flagship Peugeot franchise in Hampshire in October 2012 in aid of Breast Cancer Campaign and want an elegant lingerie range to display and make some sales – percentage of evening's sales/orders to charity.
Hi we have an exciting new underwear product that we want to get sampled and produced, if you can help please email Sissy.rooney@gmail.com
thanks
Hi there, I am starting my own niche collection of lingerie, I am unsure of the stages for the lingerie business, do I first sketch out flat sketches of my designs, then send them to a pattern cutter who puts the through a cad/cam machine get my samples made then find a manufacturer and send them over to be produced. I am very dedicated and have designed my collection but am unsure how to find a good manufacturer who can ship to the UK and can help me with high quality fabric as my designs are quite specific and very different to what is out there, I have researched for many years before this and have found a big gap in the market which has yet to be filled.
Am looking for a good business partner/manufacturer to get things going this year, I am a great networker and already have a solid marketing plan and how the business can grow in three years in place its just a matter of getting my ideas from paper to hanger. Any help or advice on how I get things produced would be a big help
Thanks
HMO
Hi Minglao! I am starting my own lingerie line I need a manufacture with different styles, I have my website set up, I just need the lingerie(private label) Im looking for different and sexy.
please contact me at : jasmineward31@gmail.com
I am a Australian lingerie designer looking for a manufacturer in Asia. Please contact me at sandrakiddemail@gmail.com
Hello, I would like to speak to you regarding manufacturing my lingerie range. Please could you contact me at sandrakiddemail@gmail.com thank you