In the fashion industry, pattern grading is key to adapting a design across different sizes while maintaining its original fit and aesthetic. Proper grading ensures that a garment fits well, whether it’s a small, medium, or plus size, without distorting the design. In this blog, we’ll explore three case studies where brands achieved success by transforming their pattern grading process.
Case Study 1: XYZ Activewear – Expanding Inclusive Sizing
XYZ Activewear, a boutique athletic wear brand, faced challenges expanding beyond its limited size range. Their original patterns, when scaled up or down, resulted in poor fits, particularly for activewear that required flexibility and comfort.
To address this, XYZ worked with a pattern grading specialist to create a comprehensive sizing system from XS to 4XL. They adjusted key elements like rise, armholes, and length for each size to ensure comfort without sacrificing performance. The result? A 40% increase in sales, a 20% reduction in returns, and higher customer satisfaction due to improved fit across all sizes.
Case Study 2: Elegant Evening Wear – Balancing Fit and Elegance
Known for its high-end evening gowns, Elegant Evening Wear struggled with fit issues at the ends of the size spectrum. Their dresses, designed for size 8, looked unflattering in sizes 2 and 16 due to distorted proportions.
To resolve this, they invested in advanced grading software, focusing on customising bust, waist, and hip proportions for each size. They also adjusted skirt lengths and flares for better balance. This transformation led to glowing reviews from customers who appreciated the improved fit and elegance in every size, significantly reducing returns on custom gowns.
Case Study 3: Casual Basics Brand – Retaining Simplicity Across Sizes
Casual Basics Brand, known for minimalist fashion, wanted to expand beyond its small, medium, and large sizes. However, traditional grading methods resulted in clothes that lost their relaxed, casual appeal.
By combining hand grading and digital tools, they ensured that their garments, from XS to XXL, retained their core design elements while fitting well across sizes. This approach helped them grow their size offerings without sacrificing the brand’s signature simplicity, leading to a 35% sales increase and positive customer feedback.
These case studies illustrate the transformative power of proper pattern grading. Whether it’s activewear, evening gowns, or casual basics, investing in accurate, customised grading processes leads to better fit, reduced returns, and increased sales. Brands looking to expand their size offerings should take note: successful pattern grading is more than just scaling up or down—it’s about creating garments that work for all body types.
Established in 1986, Datagraf Ltd T/A The Grading Bureau have come together with Gradeline, who were established in 1989, to build Gradeline-Datagraf Ltd and create an unrivalled, high-quality, cost-effective service, both within the UK and to an extensive international client base.
For over 30 years, we have specialised in pattern grading for women’s, men’s and children’s wear, and we pride ourselves on always creating an enduring end product of the highest calibre.
Our expert staff have in excess of 150 years of combined industry experience. We work on all manner of briefs for industry-leading clients, including high-street names and designers.
We have a proven track record of high-level work, which has won us numerous loyal customers all across the UK, Europe and UAE.
📞 Contact us at 020 8211 3301 or 📧 production@gradeline-datagraf.co.uk