Manufacturer · Fashion & Home Accessories
Woven size labels are small labels that carry only the size – S, M, L, 38, 40 or 104 – and are sewn next to the brand label or into the side seam. They are usually made as a separate label so that the same brand label can be used for all sizes. They are most often woven in taffeta or damask, centre-folded, with a large, clear letter or number.
Woven size labels – separate or combined with the brand
There are two main approaches. Each has its advantages, and the choice depends on the size of the collection and how many sizes you have.
| Approach | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Separate size label | one brand label for all sizes; easy reordering; fewer stock variants | one more label to sew on |
| Size woven into the brand label | one label, a cleaner look; one sewing operation | a separate design and stock for each size; more complex planning |
For most brands a separate size label is more flexible. A woven-in size suits a small collection with few sizes when the brand values the clean look of a single label.
Which sizes are marked
- Letter sizes – XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, 3XL.
- Numeric sizes for womenswear – European 34, 36, 38, 40 and so on.
- Men's shirts – collar size, for example 39, 40, 41.
- Trousers and jeans – waist and length, for example W32 L34.
- Children's sizes – height in centimetres, for example 92, 104, 116, or age.
- Universal – "One size" for scarves, hats and accessories.
Some brands also put international equivalents on one label, for example EU, UK and US sizes. This is convenient for export but needs more space and smaller text – here a printed label is more suitable.
Weave and fold
A size label is small and carries a large letter or number, so taffeta is entirely sufficient and the most economical. If the label sits by the neck of a T-shirt, choose soft damask or satin with a soft edge. The fold is most often a centre fold – the label is inserted into the neck seam next to the brand label or into the side seam next to the care label.
Where the size label is placed
- Next to the brand label – the most common; the customer sees the brand and size at the same time.
- Under the brand label – caught in the same seam, partly covered.
- In the side seam – together with the care and composition label, on garments without a collar.
- On the outside of the trouser seam – used by some denim brands.
Colour coding
Some brands use a different base or number colour for each size. This way sizes can be recognised at a glance in the warehouse and in the shop, without reading. It is useful with large quantities and fast order processing. The drawback is that labels in different colours look less "on brand", so a neutral base with a coloured number or a small coloured stripe along the edge is often chosen.
Designing the size label
- The size should be large and centred – it is the only information.
- Use the same font as on the brand label for a unified look.
- Match the base colour to the brand label.
- If the labels are centre-folded, it is good to put the size on both sides so it is visible however it is sewn in.
- Leave a sewing margin so the number is not "eaten" by the seam.
Size labels and legal requirements
A size label is not mandatory under Regulation (EU) 1007/2011, which governs fibre composition. The size is, however, a practical necessity for sales and returns, especially in online retail. That is why it deserves the same attention as the care label: the size must remain legible after many washes and match the size chart you publish in the shop. A woven label is a reliable choice precisely because of its durability – the number does not rub off.
Planning quantities
Sizes do not sell evenly. Middle sizes are usually produced in larger quantities and the extremes in smaller ones. When ordering size labels, split the quantities according to the production size ratio, not equally. Separate size labels are convenient here too – if one size runs out, you reorder only that one.
Organisation in the factory
In the factory, labels for different sizes look very similar and are easily mixed up. Good practice is:
- each size packed separately and clearly labelled;
- size labels issued together with the cut parts of the corresponding size;
- with colour coding, colours kept consistent across the whole range.
Woven or printed size label
For a simple label with one letter or number, a woven label is durable and looks higher quality. If the size label also includes international equivalents, an article number or other variable information, a printed label is more practical. Some brands print the size directly on the care label and so save a separate label.
Size labels from Polkom
Polkom makes woven size labels as a set with the brand label, in a unified style and colours – see our woven labels. As a manufacturer with over 30 years of experience, we will help you plan sizes and quantities. Send an inquiry with your size range.
