Ahhh, the ever important linesheet. As an emerging fashion brand, I'm sure you've heard lots and lots of talk about the importance of a linesheet, and you're probably wondering by now what all the fuss is about. We'll break it down for you in a simple-to-follow Q&A format, because who really has the time to read through a lengthy article? No aspiring fashion designer we know!
What is a linesheet?
A linesheet is a sales tool that contains all the necessary information for prospective buyers and boutique owners, when pursuing wholesale accounts, both with individual retailers and at tradeshows.
What is included on a linesheet?
A linesheet should include general information, product information and wholesale terms as follows:
General information:
Logo
Company name
Website url
Phone number
E-mail address
Product information:
Image of each style (see below Q&A on the type of images that should be used
Detailed product information, including style names and descriptions, color names and numbers or pattern names and numbers
Fabric information for each style
Size offerings
Season (if applicable)
Delivery dates by style
Order cut off dates
Care instructions
Special feature: Made in the U.S.A. or made with certified organic cotton
Minimums: this can be a flat dollar amount, number of units per style, or total number of units. You can also include a lower re-order minimum as an incentive.
Wholesale cost per unit
Suggested MSRP (manufacturer's suggested retail price): this is a personal preference; some brands offer this information, some do not. If a buyer specifically requests this info rmation, then you should certainly provide it
Terms:
Call-to-action and contact info: For example: "To place an order, contact xx at (phone number) and (email address)."
Terms of payment: Indicate when you would like to be paid (upfront at time of order, 50% deposit, when the products ship, COD, or with credit terms, such as Net 30 [30 days after the order is received]).
Type of payment accepted: Indicate what types of payment methods you accept (PayPal, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, business checks, etc.)
Shipping terms: Indicate shipping method (FedEx, UPS, DHL, USPS), shipping fees (if applicable) and your leadtime (how long the order will take to ship).
Cancellation and return policy, including return policy for defective merchandise
Special promos or offers: Dropshipping, custom orders, special discounts or promotions, etc.
How many pages should a linesheet consist of?
Less is more. It is best that you include all the necessary information that a buyer requires on a one page document, if at all possible.
What type of images should be represented on a linesheet?
Images that work best for your linesheet are shots that feature only your product. A perfect way to execute this is to photograph each garment on a mannequin. If you don't have a mannequin, hang the garment on a hanger and place it against a white background/wall for a clean look that shows off the details of the garment. You should never include lifestyle images or product shots on a model, which are best reserved for your media kit or lookbook.
What is the best format for a linesheet?
We find that a PDF version of a linesheet is the most buyer-friendly because it can be just as easily emailed or printed for an in-person buyer presentation, at a moment's notice.
What should never be included on a linesheet?
Never include an 'About us" section on a linesheet. The linesheet is a selling tool that is used to book wholesale orders. It is not meant to describe the story behind your brand or to give a background on you, the fashion designer and founder of the brand.
Helpful Tip: Your goal is to make it super easy for a buyer to place an order. That means having all the necessary information in an simple-to-follow format. Would you be interested in learning how to present your collection to a buyer? If so, let us know by leaving a comment below.
NEED HELP CREATING YOUR LINESHEET?
Let us do it for you! Go to the PRODUCTS AND SERVICES tab on our website and you'll see the LINESHEET option under, "Individual Products."
We look forward to working with you!