A salesman sample (sales sample) is a finished-quality garment made for showing to retail buyers, showrooms, and trade shows. It's the physical selling tool of wholesale fashion.
What Makes a Good Sales Sample
A sales sample must represent what bulk production will deliver: correct fabric, accurate color, proper trims, and clean construction. Buyers judge your entire brand on these garments - a sloppy sample kills orders before they're written.
How Many Are Needed
It depends on your sales structure. Each showroom needs a full set. Each sales rep needs one. Trade shows need display sets. A brand with three showrooms and five reps might need eight or more complete sample lines - a significant investment.
Cost Considerations
Sales samples are expensive because they're made in tiny quantities with full attention to detail. Budget for them as a selling cost, not a production cost. After the season, many brands recoup some expense by selling sample sets at sample sales.
FAQs
- What's the difference between a salesman sample and a PP sample?
- Salesman samples sell the line to buyers before production. PP samples approve production after orders are placed.
- Can I sell my salesman samples?
- Yes, many brands sell sample sets after the season through sample sales.
- Do I need salesman samples for every color?
- Ideally yes for key styles. At minimum, show the full color range via swatches if not full garments.
Glossary: see the full fashion glossary for more apparel industry terms.