Robe Product Development

Ideation & Prototyping

In the pursuit of creating an innovative and marketable product, ideation played a pivotal role. Utilizing a rapid design approach, I conducted quick sketches and produced fast prototypes to solicit valuable feedback. The foundation of this project involved selecting five of the brands top selling patterns and balancing that with asking our customers what they would like to see from us on apparel.

Pattern Creation

To ensure a distinctive aesthetic, a deliberate focus was placed on pattern creation. This involved a meticulous exploration of design elements, resulting in patterns that seamlessly resonated with our brand identity and customer preferences.

Fabric & Sustainability

Exploration of fabric options became a critical phase in the development process. Extensive sampling from both domestic and foreign manufacturers was conducted to identify the ideal material. The challenge lay in finding a fabric that combined the opulence of silk with machine washability. Ultimately, a breakthrough came with a manufacturer offering fabric made from 50% recycled plastic materials—achieving the desired luxurious feel while aligning with sustainability goals.

Prototyping and Tech Specs

Envisioning a unisex robe available in various sizes and lengths required meticulous planning. Through collaborative discussions and numerous meetings with manufacturers, a consensus was reached on two lengths and two sizes. Prototypes were crafted, each subject to rigorous testing to ensure both comfort and durability.

Troubleshooting

The iterative nature of product development revealed areas for refinement. Structural modifications, including color adjustments, pattern size alterations, and the incorporation of features such as pockets and internal tie loops, were implemented. Feedback from local models played a crucial role in fine-tuning the design.

Production & Market Launch

Upon the successful resolution of prototyping challenges, we moved into production, resulting in the creation of a versatile product line featuring 20 distinct SKUs. This innovative robe product garnered widespread attention, earning features in reputable publications such as Buzzfeed, the Lingerie Addict, and Uncommon Goods. Its popularity in the market surpassed expectations, solidifying its position as our best-selling product line.