Colour approval needs a reference, a material and a viewing process. A screen image can communicate a direction, but display settings and lighting prevent it from being a dependable physical colour standard. Agree what the supplier should match and how the match will be assessed.
Choose a controlled colour reference
Provide a named physical standard or approved reference sample where available. Record its identifier and condition. Clarify whether each component should match the reference exactly or coordinate with it. A body fabric, rib, zip tape and embroidered logo may need separate approval because their surfaces differ.
Identify the viewing conditions and who has authority to approve. When comments come from several people using different photographs, the supplier can receive conflicting instructions without a clear final decision.
Separate development approval from bulk control
- For dyeing, ask which lab dip or material sample represents the proposed colour.
- For printing, review a strike-off on the intended substrate and at the intended scale.
- For trims, check the actual component beside the body material.
- For bulk production, agree how the approved reference will be compared with incoming material and lots.
A development approval does not remove the need to review the material supplied for production. Record shade decisions and any approved variation before cutting or assembly.
Review coordinated garments together
When a collection includes matching tops and bottoms, inspect the materials side by side. If they use different constructions, document the acceptable relationship rather than assuming a shared colour name guarantees a match. Keep an approved sample or reference for each component.
When a new lot is required, identify whether garments from different lots may appear in one set or delivery. Ask the production team how lot allocation will be managed and make the relevant instructions part of the order.
Common colour approval questions
Can I approve colour by phone photograph?
Photographs help discuss issues, but use the agreed physical reference and viewing process for a controlled approval wherever required.
Should a replacement material keep the old colour approval?
Review it again. Fibre, construction, finish and surface can alter appearance even when the target reference is unchanged.
Apply this process to matching tracksuits, and send the colour references for your collection with the proposed fabrics and trims.