C&Z
QC
In the garment industry, whether you are a manufacturer, importer, or brand, you must understand the importance of quality control in this business. This industry shifts swiftly, and any time lost in shipment or defect fixings can lead to unimaginable losses. Moreover, quality issues can quickly disseminate in the digital age, giving competitors an advantage. Therefore, quality control is essential, and quality inspection is the most commonly used method. In this post, we will guide you through the steps of a garment quality inspection, the key checkpoints to focus on, and how can C&Z expertise support your garment quality control.
As Afterpay Day 2025 approaches, Australian shoppers are gearing up for one of the biggest sales events of the year. With irresistible discounts and the ease of “buy now, pay later,” it’s tempting to fill your cart with the latest fashion trends. However, in the rush to score a deal, many overlook a critical aspect: clothing quality.
A low price tag today can mean a garment that pills, fades, or falls apart after a few wears—costing you more in the long run and contributing to waste. This Afterpay Day, we encourage you to shop smarter. Here’s your essential guide to conducting a quick but effective quality check before you click “buy.”
Look Beyond the Label: Don’t just check the composition (e.g., 100% cotton). Feel it! High-quality natural fibers like cotton, linen, wool, and silk should feel substantial and soft, not papery or overly stiff. For blends, ensure they feel cohesive.
Check the Weight: Heavier fabrics within the same category (like denim or knitwear) often indicate better durability and less transparency.
Examine the Weave: Hold the garment up to the light. The fabric should be evenly woven without thin spots or obvious snags.
Seams & Stitching: This is the backbone of any garment. Seams should lie flat, be straight, and have no loose threads. Look for reinforced stitching at stress points like shoulders, armholes, and pockets. A higher stitch count per inch typically means a stronger seam.
Hems & Finishes: Hems (on skirts, trousers, sleeves) should be even, secure, and preferably finished cleanly, not just raw-edged. For knits, hems should be flexible to prevent curling.
Zippers, Buttons & Fastenings: Zippers should glide smoothly. Buttons should be securely attached, with matching buttonholes. Check that linings (if present) are neatly sewn in and not pulling.
Pattern Alignment: On striped, plaid, or patterned items, check if the patterns match at the seams (especially at the sides and centre back). This is a hallmark of careful manufacturing.
Dye Consistency: The colour should be even throughout, with no splotches or unintended fading. Give it a gentle rub with a white cloth to check for colour fastness if possible.
Fit for Purpose: Think about how the garment is meant to be worn. A flowing dress should drape beautifully, while a structured blazer should hold its shape without buckling.
Research Brands: Before the sale, note which brands are known for their quality and sustainable practices. Their sale items are often better investments.
Read Reviews (Critically): Go beyond star ratings. Look for customer photos and comments specifically about fabric, fit, and durability over time.
Understand Returns: With Afterpay, you’re still liable for payments even if you return an item. Familiarise yourself with the retailer’s return policy for sale items before purchasing.
Adopt the “Cost-Per-Wear” Mindset: Instead of just the sale price, ask: “How many times will I wear this?” A $50 coat that lasts 5 seasons is a better deal than a $20 one that lasts one winter.
This Afterpay Day, let’s shift the focus from just quantity to quality and longevity. By choosing well-made pieces, you build a more sustainable wardrobe, save money over time, and truly make the most of the deals. Happy (and wise) shopping!