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What is ready-to-wear/ready-to-wear?

Prêt-à-porter or ready-to-wear refers to ready-made clothing in standardized sizes that is sold without being individually manufactured.

Glossary illustration for Prêt-à-porter/ready-to-wear

Definition

The pieces are developed as a collection and produced in series. The term includes both affordable ready-to-wear and high-quality designer and luxury fashion.

In simple words

Ready-to-wear lies between individual couture and completely anonymous mass-produced goods as a production principle, not necessarily as a price level. A designer piece can be elaborately crafted and still appear in standard sizes. Minor changes after purchase do not make it custom-made.

What to pay attention to

  • Judge fit based on actual clothing measurements rather than the size label alone.
  • Check whether there is enough seam allowance for sensible changes.
  • Distinguish collection, quality and price from the pure form of production.

Common misconceptions

Ready-to-wear does not automatically mean mass market or low quality. Above all, it describes production in specified sizes.

ESKYNA mnemonic

Ready-to-wear is prepared for many bodies - it only becomes suitable with the right size and, if necessary, small changes.