A TOP sample (top of production sample) is a garment pulled from the very start of the bulk production run. It confirms that the production line - not just the sample room - can make your garment correctly.
Why TOP Samples Matter
Sample-room quality doesn't guarantee production-line quality. Different operators, different machines, production speed instead of careful handwork - the TOP sample catches line issues before they multiply across thousands of units.
What to Check
- Construction - matches the approved PP sample
- Measurements - check across the size run, not just one size
- Workmanship - quality at production speed, not sample-room pace
If the TOP Fails
Stop the line, fix the issue, and re-submit. Catching problems at the top of production saves the entire run - a defect found in unit 10 costs almost nothing; the same defect in unit 10,000 is a disaster.
FAQs
- How many TOP samples are pulled?
- Usually a few units per style, sometimes a full size run.
- What's the difference between TOP and PP samples?
- PP is made in the sample room before bulk. TOP comes off the actual production line.
- Can production continue while I review the TOP?
- Risky. Most brands hold the line until TOP approval - running blind risks the whole order.
Glossary: see the full fashion glossary for more apparel industry terms.