by J Mitchell Design
If you’ve already come up with a concept for your fashion brand, the next essential step is creating your designs.
Without designs, you can’t have real conversations about production timelines, minimum order quantities, or costs. And without understanding your costs, how can you build a viable business plan?
This is where a lot of new fashion brands get stuck. You want to know what it will all cost — but suppliers and manufacturers can’t give you accurate figures until they’ve seen your designs.
CADs are the gateway.
They bring your concept to life in a format that allows for proper pricing and production discussions. Even at an early stage, your CADs don’t need to be perfect — but they do need to be clear enough to communicate your idea visually.
You can create your own CADs using tools like Adobe Illustrator, CorelDraw, or Clo3D. But if you’re unsure where to start or want a professional result, this is exactly the kind of thing I do at JMD.
Often, you’ll also need tech packs — a set of files that detail construction, materials, and trims — before a factory can provide a full cost breakdown.
Sloth 2025 Mens Sport Collection: A Design Example
Here’s a look at a recent example from my archive — the Sloth 2025 Mens Sport Collection. This concept blends oversized silhouettes, performance textiles and thoughtful detailing across multi-product sportswear pieces.
1. Oversized Heavyweight Tee
An oversized 380GSM cotton tee with pigment print graphic, rib neck, and DTM rubber label detailing.
2. Windrunner
Athletic fit softshell jacket with mesh vents, reflective trims and laser-cut perforations for breathability. Technical, stylish, and performance-focused.
3. Technical Cargo Pant
Lightweight stretch ripstop pant with reflective branding, reversed zips and functional details like silicone aglets and jacquard cuffs.
4. Rain Jacket
A polyamide ripstop outer with fleece lining, welt pockets and 1/2 zip for easy wear. Finished with branded patches and functional toggles.
How JMD Can Help
At J Mitchell Design, I help you move from concept to clarity:
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Create clear, professional CADs of your garments
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Develop tech packs suitable for sampling and production
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Work with sourcing experts to help guide you on costs and MOQ
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Recommend trusted manufacturers that suit your budget and product level
If you’re serious about turning your fashion idea into a business, this is where it starts.
👉 Explore how I can help bring your brand to life
Tags:
fashion design, fashion startup, CADs, tech packs, fashion manufacturing, Clo3D, fashion business plan, how to start a fashion brand, J Mitchell Design, Sloth Collection, sportswear CADs
Meta Description:
Learn why designs and CADs are the first real step in launching a fashion brand. See real examples from JMD’s Sloth 2025 Mens Sport Collection.
Ready to start your fashion brand?
I’m Jonathan Mitchell, a freelance fashion designer with over 20 years of experience designing for Puma, Adidas, Umbro and emerging startups worldwide. At JMD, I help brands at all stages – from concept and CADs to sourcing and sampling. Whether you’re launching your first product or building a full collection, I provide the creative and technical support to help you succeed.
Visit www.jmitchelldesign.co.uk or explore more at JMD x Fashion Consultancy
