Top 15 Clothing Manufacturers for Startups (2025)

Starting a clothing brand is exciting, but finding the right manufacturer is key to your success.

Many manufacturers now cater specifically to startups, offering services from custom design to small-batch production.

Whether you’re looking for eco-friendly options or specialized techniques, there’s likely a manufacturer that fits your needs.

Don’t forget to consider factors like minimum order quantities, production times, and quality control.

This guide will introduce you to some of the best clothing manufacturers for startups.

Let’s get started!

A List of Clothing Manufacturers for Startups

1. Appareify (China)

Founded in 2017 in Shenzhen, China, Appareify has quickly grown into a recognized name in clothing manufacturing.

The company focuses on sustainability and innovation, offering end-to-end services from fabric selection to final design.

Their advanced equipment supports both simple garments and complex designs, while an experienced team of designers and craftsmen ensures consistent quality.

Appareify stands out for its eco-conscious approach, using biodegradable fabrics, recyclable packaging, and a closed-loop system that transforms plastic waste and worn-out textiles into new materials.

Their partnerships with trusted suppliers like Coats, JUKI, and YKK further add to their credibility.

Products Offered

• Activewear
• T-shirts
• Hoodies
• Underwear
• Shoes
• Children’s clothing
• Custom designs

MOQ

Appareify’s Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) is flexible, making it suitable for startups.

Pros

• Sustainable manufacturing practices
• Advanced technology and equipment
• Affordable pricing with discounts for bulk orders
• Quick turnaround times (7-20 working days, with 3-day rush options)
• Customization services
• Private labeling support
• Use of eco-friendly fabrics
• Partnerships with reputable suppliers

Cons

• Limited information on specific MOQ requirements
• Potential language barriers due to Chinese location
• Possible longer shipping times for international orders

Pricing

Appareify offers competitive pricing suited to various budgets. They provide discounted rates for bulk orders, making it easier for startups to scale their production.

2. Organic Apparel USA

Based in Los Angeles, Organic Apparel USA has been a leader in sustainable fashion for over 15 years.

They’re an ideal partner for startups launching eco-conscious lines, combining experience with strong environmental standards.

Their facilities run on renewable energy, cutting carbon emissions by 40% compared to conventional manufacturers. The company is GOTS-certified (Global Organic Textile Standard), guaranteeing both environmental and social responsibility.

They’ve also received multiple awards, including the 2023 Green Business Excellence Award, for their innovative practices.

With strict quality control (99.8% accuracy rate) and responsive 24/7 customer support, startups can count on reliable service.

Products Offered

• Organic cotton t-shirts and tank tops
• Sustainable denim jeans and jackets
• Eco-friendly activewear and yoga apparel
• Organic cotton hoodies and sweatshirts
• Bamboo fabric loungewear and sleepwear
• Hemp-blend outerwear and accessories

MOQ

Organic Apparel USA offers a startup-friendly MOQ of 100 pieces per style and color.

Pros

• All fabrics are ethically sourced.
• Organic Apparel is fully certified in organic garment manufacturing and can provide certification for your orders too.
• The customization options are quite extensive and offer lots of creative freedom over in-stock design.

Cons

• Organic fabrics deliver premium quality clothing but it costs considerably more.

Pricing

Expect to pay about 15–20% more than conventional production, reflecting the use of organic materials.

Basic organic cotton t-shirts start at $8–$10 per unit (MOQ level), while sustainable denim ranges from $25–$35 per unit. Eco-friendly packaging and labeling are included.

Tiered pricing offers cost savings for larger runs: 5% off above 500 units and 10% off above 1000 units.

3. TEG (USA)

TEG, also known as The Evans Group, has been a trusted name in fashion development and manufacturing for nearly 20 years. Based in Los Angeles’ Arts District, they provide full-service support for brands ranging from emerging designers to established labels.

Their vertically integrated facility ensures smooth production processes and consistent quality. TEG also emphasizes ethical and sustainable practices, appealing to brands focused on responsible manufacturing.

A unique aspect of TEG is their “By Your Side” mentorship program, which helps new designers navigate the complexities of apparel production. Their skilled pattern makers and tailoring professionals deliver garments with exceptional fit and attention to detail.

Products Offered

• Custom apparel designs
• Pattern and sample development
• Small volume production runs
• Marketing services
• Fabric and trim sourcing

MOQ

TEG’s minimum order quantity (MOQ) starts at 10-50 pieces per style for studio-level production.

Pros

• Having a dedicated team eases and hastens the production process.
• TEG manufactures all types of clothing including niche items such as bridal and couture pieces.
• The scale of services addresses every need from design and size grading to packaging and order fulfilment.

Cons

• TEG vets its clients and prefers those that align with its brand.
• You may need a significant budget to afford the premium services provided by this firm.

Pricing

Customized pricing based on project scope, design complexity, materials, and volume. TEG offers flexible payment plans, which can help startups manage costs. Be sure to confirm all fees upfront to avoid unexpected charges.

4. Yotex (China)

Yotex stands out as a specialized functional apparel manufacturer based in China. They focus on producing high-quality sportswear, activewear, streetwear, outdoor gear, and swimwear.

Their expertise in technical fabrics and commitment to sustainable practices make them an attractive option for startups in the athletic and outdoor clothing markets.

Yotex has established itself as a one-stop solution for functional apparel production in China. With multiple factories specializing in knit, woven, seamless, and print garments, they offer a comprehensive range of manufacturing capabilities.

Their production capacity is impressive, with the ability to produce thousands of pieces monthly.

This efficiency can be a significant advantage for startups looking to maintain inventory levels and respond quickly to market demands.

Products Offered

• Sportswear
• Activewear
• Streetwear
• Outdoor apparel
• Swimwear
• Seamless garments

MOQ

Yotex offers flexible minimum order quantities (MOQ) that can be tailored to suit startups’ needs.

Pros

• The fabric options are vast and each of them offers a unique advantage.
• All clothing manufacturing services are available in-house.
• Yotex is committed to high-quality standards and is open to pre-shipment inspection.

Cons

• Each sample costs 3 times what it would cost during mass production.

Pricing

Yotex offers a tiered pricing structure that benefits growing businesses. As your order volumes increase, you can expect lower prices.

This scalable approach allows startups to start with smaller orders at competitive rates and enjoy more favorable pricing as their business expands.

5. Hujoin (China)

Located in Suzhou City, China, Hujoin Apparel has established itself as a go-to manufacturer for startups and independent designers.

Their expertise lies in small-batch production and customization, allowing new brands to test the market without significant financial risk.

Hujoin’s production capabilities span a wide range of clothing items, from basic t-shirts to more complex outerwear. They pride themselves on their quality control processes, ensuring that each garment meets high standards before shipping.

What sets Hujoin apart is their commitment to nurturing small businesses. They offer design services and logistical support, making the manufacturing process more accessible to newcomers in the fashion industry.

Products Offered

• T-shirts and tanks
• Hoodies and sweatshirts
• Dresses and skirts
• Pants and shorts
• Jackets and outerwear
• Activewear and athleisure
• Accessories (hats, bags, etc.)

MOQ

Hujoin offers exceptionally low minimum order quantities, with some styles available for as little as one piece per order.

Pros

• Hujoin offers a wide array of manufacturing approaches including printing, embroidery, custom trims, and labels.
• Hujoin can source any fabrics you prefer.
• Sampling fees are refundable if you order 100 pieces or more.

Cons

• You have to initiate returns within 3 days of receiving your order. This can be challenging if you are sorting through a bulk order.

Pricing

Hujoin’s pricing structure is designed to accommodate startups and small businesses. They offer competitive rates that vary based on the complexity of the design, materials used, and order quantity.

For the most accurate pricing information, you’ll need to contact Hujoin directly with your specific requirements.

They offer personalized quotes based on your designs and production needs, ensuring you get a clear picture of costs before committing to an order.

6. Wings2Fashion (India)

Wings2Fashion has built a solid reputation as a versatile clothing manufacturer in India. They specialize in a wide variety of garments for different markets and maintain strict quality checks at every stage of production.

Their modern infrastructure includes single and double-needle machines, blind stitch technology, and digital printing facilities.

The company also emphasizes hygiene and product safety, with dedicated sanitization practices. In addition, their in-house design team can develop custom clothing tailored to your needs, while fabric sourcing services make it easy to find the right materials at affordable prices.

Products Offered

• Women’s Fashion: Tops, dresses, skirts, leggings, pants, nightwear, kaftans, shorts
• Men’s Wear: T-shirts, shirts, pants, shorts, track suits, night suits, joggers, jackets, coat pants, jeans
• Kidswear: Similar items as men’s wear, sized for children
• Sportswear and gym wear
• Party wear
• Beach wear
• Undergarments
• High fashion clothing

MOQ

Wings2Fashion accepts both small-scale and large-scale orders, making them suitable for startups with varying production needs.

Pros

• Wings2Fashion can manufacture an extensive variety of clothing.
• Fabric sourcing is easier and affordable given that India is a renowned fabric hub.
• Wings2Fashion is well-experienced in export shipping.

Cons

• Multiple parameters such as MOQs and timelines are not well-defined,

Pricing

Offers competitive pricing with attractive deals for private label clothing. Costs vary by order size and style complexity, making them flexible for startups at different stages.

7. Hongyu Apparel (China)

Founded in 2003 in Guangdong, Hongyu Apparel is a versatile manufacturer serving both startups and established brands.

With over 20 years of experience, they provide solutions ranging from ready-made clothing to fully custom designs. Their monthly capacity exceeds 73,000 garments, demonstrating strong production capability.

Hongyu enforces strict quality control, inspecting stitching, measurements, and fabrics before shipping. They also stand out for order flexibility, offering services for both small and large runs to help startups manage inventory risk.

Products Offered

• Women’s dresses
• Men’s shirts
• Sportswear
• Swimwear
• Custom designs

MOQ

Hongyu Apparel’s Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) varies based on the level of customization:

• Ready-made clothing: 50 pieces (mix of sizes and styles)
• Logo customization: 50 pieces (mix of sizes and styles)
• Fully custom designs: 100 pieces per style and color (across 4 sizes)

Pros

• Initial consultations are free.
• You can customize sizes and lots of other details such as logos and clothing labels.
• Hongyu is equipped to provide different production approaches and also offers product photography for your marketing needs.

Cons

• Ordering a broad selection of sizes costs more.

Pricing

Pricing varies by customization level: ready-made items are listed on their site, while logo and custom designs are quoted individually. Samples cost $20–$50 each depending on complexity. Bulk orders require a 30–50% deposit, with the remainder due before shipping.

8. The Odd Factory (India)

Based in Mumbai, The Odd Factory has carved a niche in sustainable, small-scale production. Their focus on slow fashion and ethical practices makes them an attractive partner for startups.

They provide 24/7 customer service and free shipping within India, while their production facility integrates modern technology with sustainable methods such as waste reduction and upcycling.

The company also uses offcuts and leftover materials to create accessories, making sustainability part of every order. This commitment allows startups to align with eco-friendly values without compromising on style.

Products Offered

• Custom suits
• Unique outfits for special occasions
• Casual wear
• Formal wear
• Sustainable clothing lines
• Bespoke garments

MOQ

The Odd Factory caters specifically to startups, offering flexible minimum order quantities (MOQ).

Pros

• Odd Factory offers collaborative guidance throughout the order process.
• The company can source a diverse range of fabric and also customize prints through dyeing and other techniques.
• Odd Factory offers upcycling services and uses cut-offs and production remnants to make unique accessories.

Cons

• The MOQs for custom accessories like buttons and labels are much higher than those of clothing.

Pricing

Emphasizes affordability while maintaining sustainable standards. Pricing depends on design complexity, fabrics, and order volumes. Exact quotes are provided upon request.

9. Arlisman Garment Factory (China)

Located in Shaxi, Zhongshan, often called the clothing capital of China, Arlisman Garment Factory has been operating since 1999.

They are known for rigorous production standards and strict quality control, with a client list that includes U.S. Polo Assn., H&M, and Debenhams.

Recently, Arlisman expanded into design and sales support, providing startups with valuable guidance for developing new collections.

Their specialty is men’s knitwear, particularly sweaters, sweatshirts, polo shirts, and casual pants, though they also produce jeans and accessories.

Products Offered

• Knit sweaters
• Sweatshirts
• T-shirts
• Polo shirts
• Casual pants
• Jeans
• Clothing accessories

MOQ

Arlisman offers a minimum order quantity of 100 pieces per color per design.

Pros

• The company offers special fabrics developed to suit particular types of clothing.
• Sample fees are refundable if you place an order thereafter.
• Production processes are optimized to ensure proper cost control.

Cons

• The low MOQs may be destabilized if you order clothing with custom details.

Pricing

Arlisman focuses on cost-effectiveness and startup support. While exact prices are not published, rates are competitive. Brands should contact them directly with design and volume details for a tailored quote.

10. Hook and Eye UK

Hook and Eye UK is a clothing manufacturer and design company based in Birmingham, England.

They specialize in helping startup fashion brands and streetwear labels create high-quality clothing. The company offers a range of services from design consultation to bulk manufacturing.

Hook and Eye UK has been helping hundreds of startup fashion brands since 2013. They’ve grown steadily and now work with clothing brands across the UK and internationally.

Their expertise lies in creating “bridge brands” – those that fill the gap between value high street brands and luxury labels.

Their designers offer one-on-one online sessions to create tech packs and designs. This personalized approach allows for direct collaboration between clients and expert designers.

Products Offered

• T-shirts
• Hoodies
• Joggers
• Custom clothing designs
• Tech packs
• Patterns
• Samples

MOQ

The minimum order quantity (MOQ) is 50 units per design/color. This can increase with design complexity. To start bulk manufacturing, you need at least two designs. This could be one garment in two colorways or two separate garments.

Pros

• Hook and Eye has a large production capacity and can handle your orders even as your brand grows.
• The scope of services includes services that can help start-ups grow.

Cons

• Customers bear the cost of shipping returns.

Pricing

Project-based pricing depends on garment complexity, fabrics, graphics, and shipping method. They provide an “Estimated Pricing Guide” for common items like hoodies, T-shirts, and joggers upon request.

Tech Pack design sessions can be purchased online, usually scheduled within a week. Bulk manufacturing typically takes 4–8 weeks after sampling, plus shipping time.

11. Billoomi Fashion (India)

Billoomi Fashion, founded in 2005, is based in New Delhi, India. With over 15 years of experience, they’ve established themselves as trusted clothing manufacturers for startups and emerging brands.

The company is ISO 9001:2015 certified and SEDEX audited, ensuring high-quality standards and ethical business practices.

Billoomi Fashion specializes in eco-friendly and sustainable fabric sourcing, catering to clients worldwide, particularly in the USA, UK, Australia, and UAE. Their full-service approach covers every aspect of garment production, from pattern making to delivery.

As small batch clothing manufacturers, they offer personalized attention to each client, making them an ideal partner for startups and small businesses.

Their commitment to confidentiality and design protection further enhances their appeal to emerging brands.

Products Offered

• Women’s clothing
• Men’s clothing
• Children’s clothing
• Sustainable and eco-friendly garments
• Custom designs
• Bohemian clothing

MOQ

Billoomi Fashion accepts small batch orders with low Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ), making them suitable for startups and small businesses launching new clothing lines.

Pros

• Billoomi Fashion has a detailed quality inspection list and thorough checks to ensure each item is ascertained.
• The company has easy access to lots of fabric suppliers and can source your chosen fabrics.
• Consultations and inquiries are free.

Cons

• The services are strictly manufacturing-oriented and may not be adequate for a start-up that requires more support.
• Billoomi Fashion does not manufacture clothing in certain fabrics like leather and faux leather.

Pricing

Competitive pricing tailored to design complexity, fabric, and volume. Startups can expect cost-effective solutions without compromising quality. Quotes are provided directly for each project.

12. Grade House (UK)

Grade House, based in the United States, has earned a reputation as a go-to partner for fashion startups. Their expertise spans the entire product development process, from initial concept to market launch.

The company’s commitment to utilizing innovative machinery and cutting-edge techniques sets them apart in the industry.

Grade House specializes in both small-batch production for startups and large-scale manufacturing for established brands. Their team of design experts brings versatility to every project, capable of creating timeless classics or avant-garde pieces.

Quality control is at the heart of Grade House’s operations. They employ a rigorous quality-centric production approach, ensuring that every garment meets the highest standards before reaching consumers.

Products Offered

• Custom clothing lines
• Pattern development
• Fabric printing
• Labels and tags
• Cost and marker making
• Design consultation services

MOQ

Grade House offers flexible Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ) to accommodate startups. Their MOQ starts as low as 50 pieces per style, making it accessible for new businesses to launch their clothing lines without excessive inventory commitments.

Pros

• The startup support services can significantly ease the development process.
• Feedback on consultations and product development can be provided within 1 to 5 days depending on the complexity.

Cons

• Grade House does not offer any fabric printing or embroidery services.
• Customers have to provide fabrics and other accessories for product sampling.

Pricing

Pricing is customized to each project based on design complexity, fabric, and order size. Startups can contact Grade House for personalized consultations and detailed quotes.

13. Affix Apparel (USA)

Based in the United States, Affix Apparel has been in the apparel industry for over 10 years. They specialize in made-to-order clothing that helps brands showcase their unique identities.

Affix Apparel’s expertise lies in transforming ideas into custom apparel that resonates with target markets.

Their production capabilities include cut and sew, private labeling, sublimation printing, custom embroidery, and screen printing. Affix Apparel prides itself on using innovative design and production techniques to meet industry standards.

Products Offered

• Custom hoodies
• Private label apparel
• Screen printed clothing
• Embroidered garments
• Sublimation printed items
• Cut and sew products

MOQ

Affix Apparel offers a low minimum order quantity (MOQ) of 50 pieces per design for many services.

Pros

• Low MOQ of 50 pieces
• Over 10 years of industry experience
• Six certifications in ethics and sustainability
• Wide range of customization options
• One-stop solution for diverse apparel needs
• Quick sample production and manufacturing

Cons

• Limited information on international shipping
• Pricing not readily available on website
• May have longer lead times for complex custom orders

Pricing

Pricing is tailored per project. While not published online, Affix Apparel emphasizes affordable customization for startups. Quotes are based on product type, quantity, and design requirements.

14. D&J Fashion (China)

Headquartered in Hong Kong, with operations across multiple countries, D&J Fashion started as a sock factory in Guangzhou under founder Siuwan Tang before expanding into women’s fashion.

Over the years, the company has navigated economic shifts and tough competition to establish itself as a reliable partner for both startups and established brands.

D&J Fashion’s strength lies in adaptability and cross-market expertise. With a deep understanding of Eastern and Western consumer preferences, they can create styles that resonate globally.

Founder Siuwan Tang’s ability to communicate in four languages also makes collaboration with international clients smooth.

They emphasize quality and sustainability, with rigorous inspections before shipping and certifications for eco-friendly production methods, a valuable selling point for brands targeting conscious consumers.

Products Offered

• Women’s apparel
• Socks and hosiery
• Casual wear
• Formal wear
• Activewear
• Outerwear

MOQ

D&J Fashion’s minimum order quantity (MOQ) is 500 pieces per style.

Pros

• You would have an easy time working with this manufacturer if you are not skilled in clothing development tasks like grading or pattern making.
• The company is experienced in working with e-commerce brands.

Cons

• Undefined MOQs can be hard to predict both at the onset and as you develop designs in the future.

Pricing

Pricing is customized by order size, fabrics, design complexity, and timeline. Payment terms typically require a 30% deposit upfront and 70% before shipment. Startups can place smaller test orders at a higher per-unit cost to validate products before scaling.

15. H & Fourwing (China)

H & Fourwing, founded in 2014, is located in China and focuses on high-end women’s clothing. Their expertise spans both woven and knitted garments, positioning them as a versatile partner for your startup.

The company boasts an in-house design team of over 10 professionals, ready to bring your ideas to life or enhance your existing designs.

Their production capabilities are impressive, with more than 300 skilled staff members. H & Fourwing employs seasoned pattern makers with 25 years of experience, ensuring excellent fit and quality.

They utilize advanced techniques like infrared ray cutting for precise pattern placement.

Quality control is a priority, with multiple inspection points throughout production. This attention to detail has helped H & Fourwing support over 980 brands worldwide, building a solid reputation in the industry.

Products Offered

• Blouses (organic cotton, silk, Pima cotton, modal, Tencel, viscose, linen)
• Dresses (woven and knitted, casual and party styles)
• Pants and shorts (various materials including acetate and wool)
• Suits and jackets (silk, wool, cotton, PU leather)
• Skirts (various lengths and materials)
• Jumpsuits and overalls
• Tops (sustainable materials, silk, custom designs)

MOQ

H & Fourwing offers a startup-friendly minimum order quantity (MOQ) of 100 pieces per color per style.

Pros

• The company has strict quality standards and uses an internal and independent quality control team.
• Samples for in-stock designs are free.
• Rush orders allow you to achieve product development, manufacturing, and shipping in 40 days.

Cons

• The sample price is 3 times the bulk price.

Pricing

The company offers various cost-saving strategies, including fabric sourcing and design optimization. They work with different shipping terms (FOB, CIP, DDP) to accommodate your budget and needs.

For accurate pricing, you’ll need to contact them directly with your specific requirements.

FAQs about Clothing Manufacturers for Startups

Where Is the Cheapest to Manufacture Clothing?

China, Bangladesh, and Vietnam top the list for low-cost clothing manufacturing. These countries offer competitive pricing due to lower labor costs and well-established textile industries.

China’s vast manufacturing infrastructure and skilled workforce make it a popular choice. Labor costs in China are about 1/4 to 1/5 of those in the United States.

Bangladesh has become a major player in garment production. Its minimum wage for garment workers is around $95 per month, significantly lower than many other countries.

Vietnam’s clothing manufacturing sector has grown rapidly. It offers a good balance of cost-effectiveness and quality, with labor costs about 50% lower than in China.

How Do You Begin Your Own Clothing Line?

Starting a clothing line is not too different from establishing any other start-up. Here is a summary of the key steps in the process.

• Research – study your market and find out what kind of clothing items are in high demand and identify any supply gaps that you can fill.
• Create a plan – use the feedback from your research to create an actionable business plan including a budget.
• Register your business – formally register your business and pay any fees that the authorities require. Consider trademarking your logo too.
• Develop designs – create Designs or identify samples that you can modify to achieve the style you are targeting for your brand.
• Find manufacturing partners – find manufacturers that offer services that match your needs for fees within your budget.
• Obtain samples – shortlist potential suppliers, obtain samples to judge their work, and pick one to work with.
• Market your brand – begin marketing your brand as production progresses to generate interest among customers.
• Launch and sell – launch your clothing store in a remarkable way to make an impression on customers and entice them to buy your pieces.

What Makes a Good Clothing Manufacturer for a Startup?

Look out for:

• Flexible manufacturing terms – your order requirements may fluctuate in the early stages as you get to learn your market and only a flexible manufacturer may be able to accommodate such changes.
• Low MOQs – it is advisable to start with small orders and increase them as your clientele grows. This may save you the agony of dead stock and also works to your advantage if you are on a limited budget.
• Value-adding services – aim for a manufacturer that offers extra services such as design assistance, grading, or pattern making if you are uncertain how to navigate them on your own.
• Reasonable prices – the cost of manufacturing should be fair enough to allow you to make adequate profit margins.
• Quality and compliance – an ideal manufacturer should meet industry compliance standards and have high quality control standards.

Final Thoughts: Partnering with Clothing Manufacturers for Startups

Choosing a clothing manufacturer can neatly be summed up into one key agenda: weigh all your feasible options and aim for one that you believe can help your startup thrive.

Alternatively, let us take the pressure off your shoulders. We can find clothing manufacturers that meet all your specifications, vet them, and even negotiate fair terms on your behalf.

We also provide product development services and worldwide shipping support.

Ready to get your fashion start-up in business? Send us manufacturing requirements and request a free quote at any time.