Inside the Fashion Factory: Understanding Style & Fit Sample Review and Final Inspection Audits

Gaurav Mandal
Jul 19
3 min read

In the journey from sketch to store, two crucial checkpoints determine the quality and commercial readiness of a fashion product: sample approvals and final inspections. While creativity drives design, it’s precision in review processes that ensures consistent quality, customer satisfaction, and brand credibility—especially in the competitive world of Indian fashion exports and domestic retail.

This blog explores how brands review style and fit samples, and what goes into final inspection audits and certifications before bulk dispatch.

1. Review of Style and Fit Sample Approval

The style sample is the brand’s first look at how the design translates from paper to product. The fit sample, meanwhile, ensures the garment conforms to size standards and drapes well across different body types.

What Is Reviewed?

Review Criteria	Description
Design Accuracy	Does the sample match the approved tech pack or sketch?
Fit and Sizing	Is it true to measurement specs across bust, waist, hips, length, etc.?
Construction Quality	Are seams, finishes, closures, and stitch counts up to standard?
Fabric Behavior	Is the fall, stretch, and shrinkage as expected?
Functionality	Do buttons, zippers, fastenings, or layers work as intended?
Aesthetic Details	Are embellishments, prints, embroidery, and trims placed correctly?

Real-Life Example:

FabIndia, which works with artisan clusters, often needs 2–3 rounds of fit samples before approving garments. They test samples on models with varied Indian body shapes to ensure consistency in XS to XXL.\

Sample Approval Comment Format:

Style Number: F6SS01
Issue: Armhole too tight; increase 1.5 cm
Fabric Issue: Slight color variation from swatch – check dye batch
Trims: Button too glossy – use matte brass option
Decision: REVISE & RESUBMIT

Tip: Maintain a sample tracker with style numbers, approval status, and buyer/brand comments for efficient follow-up

2. Final Inspection / Audit Report / Certificate

After production, a Final Inspection (also known as Final Random Inspection or FRI) ensures the bulk goods meet the brand’s quality standards before dispatch. These inspections are usually conducted by in-house QA teams or third-party audit agencies.

What Is Inspected?

Final Checkpoint	What’s Evaluated
Quantity & Size Breakdown	Is the order shipped as per PO in terms of quantity and size ratio?
Packaging & Labelling	Are hangtags, barcodes, polybags, and folding as per client SOP?
Workmanship	Random garments are checked for stitching flaws, loose threads, etc.
Color Matching	Lab dips vs. final batch: is color variation within acceptable range?
Measurements	Garments are measured for tolerances (+/- spec range)
Fabric Performance	Optional tests: shrinkage, rubbing, seam slippage, etc.

Components of an Inspection Report:

Style No. & Buyer Info
PO Number & Order Quantity
Inspection Date, Location & Inspector Name
AQL Level Used (Acceptable Quality Limit, e.g. 2.5%)
Photos of Packing, Garments, Labels
List of Major / Minor Defects
Overall Result: PASS / FAIL / CONDITIONAL APPROVAL

Example:

Shahi Exports, a large Indian export house, works with third-party auditors like SGS and Bureau Veritas for final inspections of garments going to EU or US clients. Failing a final audit means the goods are held or reworked, causing delays and penalties.

Conclusion: Precision Defines Premium

Fashion today is no longer just about flair—it’s about flawless execution. From the first fit sample to the final packed carton, each review point adds up to consumer trust and brand reputation. Whether you're an indie fashion label or a large-scale exporter, instilling discipline in the sample approval and inspection process is non-negotiable.

🎓 For young fashion entrepreneurs: invest early in documentation, SOPs, and professional QA practices. It pays off in repeat orders and brand value.

Download PDF – Sample Review & Final Inspection Report in Fashion