Clothing Cost Calculator
Calculate total production cost, wholesale price, and retail MSRP for garments incorporating fabric yardage, notions, trim, labor hours, and profit markup margins.
Garment Materials & Yardage
Labor & Pricing Multipliers
Apparel Unit Cost & Retail Pricing Formula
Total Unit Cost = (Fabric Yards × Price/Yd) + Notions + Trims + (Labor Hours × Rate/Hr) + Packaging; Wholesale = Unit Cost / (1 - Wholesale Margin); Retail MSRP = Wholesale / (1 - Retail Margin)- Raw Materials: Primary shell fabric, contrast fabrics, interfacings, linings, zippers, buttons, and brand labels.
- CMT Production Labor: Pattern drafting, grading, cutting, sewing, serging, and quality inspection bench hours.
- Wholesale Multiplier: Typically structured at a 40%–55% gross margin (or 2.0x–2.2x cost multiplier) for retailers.
- Retail Keystone Markup: Standard retail pricing operates at a 50% keystone markup (2.0x wholesale price).
Step-by-Step Worked Example
Calculation Steps:
How to Use This Calculator
Assumptions & Limitations
- Estimates are based on standard national averages and current prevailing construction materials and contractor rates.
- Actual trade bids may fluctuate according to local building code requirements, permit fees, and site topography.
- Always obtain multiple written bids from licensed, bonded, and insured contractors before commencing work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard markup for retail clothing brands?
Independent and luxury fashion brands typically mark up direct production costs by 2.0x to 2.5x for wholesale accounts, and retailers mark up wholesale by another 2.0x to 2.5x to reach MSRP (a 4.0x–6.0x multiplier over raw manufacturing cost).
What is CMT in fashion manufacturing?
CMT stands for Cut, Make, and Trim. It is a production agreement where the brand supplies all fabrics, patterns, and trims, and the manufacturer charges exclusively for cutting, assembling, and finishing the garment.
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