Common mistakes in clothing label design and how to avoid them

Launching a new fashion collection involves coordinating hundreds of details: choosing trendy colours, selecting the right materials, adjusting patterns for a perfect fit, organising photoshoots and advertising campaigns… Every garment goes through a meticulous process to ensure its success in the market. However, one element sometimes does not receive the same attention: the labels. And when mistakes occur, the consequences can be serious.

Imagine a line of T-shirts being released with the wrong size printed on the labels. This could easily turn into a flood of returns, dissatisfied customers, and additional costs for the brand. Or an error in the garment’s composition could lead to legal issues if the materials do not match what is stated on the label. These types of mistakes not only affect the customer experience but can also result in penalties and damage the brand’s reputation.

To avoid these issues in large-scale productions, it is essential to understand the most common mistakes in clothing label design and how to prevent them. What are they?

1. Illegible or poorly functional design

One of the most common mistakes in label design is prioritising aesthetics over functionality. A label with fonts that are too small, overly stylised typography, or low-contrast colours can be difficult to read, leading to confusion for both consumers and distributors.

How to avoid it:

• Use clean, legible fonts, avoiding unnecessary embellishments that may hinder readability.
• Ensure an appropriate font size, considering the type of garment and the distance from which the label will be read.
• Check that the contrast between the background and text allows for clear reading under different lighting conditions.
• Test different formats and materials to confirm that the information remains clear after production. Final material testing is particularly important, as certain fonts may appear less legible on fabric or textured paper than they do on a digital screen.

2. Inappropiate materials for the type of garment

The label material is just as important as the garment itself. If it is too stiff or rough, it may cause discomfort, leading the wearer to cut it off—losing important information in the process. Similarly, if you are launching an eco-friendly clothing line, using plastic or metal labels that are not biodegradable would be counterproductive. Additionally, the label material should align with the fabric and style of the clothing.

How to avoid it:

• For delicate garments or those in direct contact with the skin, opt for labels made from soft materials or printed directly onto the fabric.
• Ensure that labels are flexible and do not irritate the skin, especially in children’s and sportswear.
• If the collection has a sustainable focus, use labels made from recycled or biodegradable materials to align with the brand’s eco-friendly commitment.
• Choose label materials that complement the style and fabric of each collection, ensuring they align not only with the brand identity but also with the collection itself.

3. Lack of mandatory or relevant information

Nowadays, it is common for brands to operate in multiple markets, with their collections tailored to the preferences and trends of each region. Labels are no exception. Each country has specific regulations regarding the information that must be included, and failing to comply can lead to legal penalties, product seizures at customs, and a loss of consumer trust.

How to avoid it:

• Asegúrate de incluir datos esenciales como talla, composición de materiales, instrucciones de cuidado y país de fabricación.
• Ensure the label includes essential details such as size, material composition, care instructions, and country of manufacture.
• Work with textile regulation consultants to ensure all labels meet international requirements.

4. Uncomfortable or poorly placed labels

A poorly positioned label or one with stiff edges can be irritating for the wearer, negatively impacting their experience with the garment. In some cases, this discomfort alone may be enough for a customer to decide not to purchase from the brand again.

How to avoid it:

• Design labels with soft or rounded edges to minimise discomfort.
• Consider the label placement based on the type of garment. For example, in sportswear, heat-pressed labels are a better option to prevent chafing.
• Conduct wear tests with consumers to identify potential discomfort before mass production.

5. Poor integration with brand identity

Labels are not only informative but also an essential part of a brand’s identity. Opting for a generic design or one that does not align with the brand’s visual identity can reduce the garment’s impact at the point of sale. Consumers may even question the garment’s authenticity and decide not to purchase it.

How to avoid it:

• Ensure that the colours, fonts, and materials of the label reflect the brand’s image.
• Incorporate distinctive elements such as logos, slogans, or exclusive prints to reinforce brand identity.
• Design high-quality, visually appealing labels that convey the brand’s values and enhance recognition.

6. Lack of planning and rushed production

The fashion industry is highly dynamic, and there is not always as much time as we would like for planning and decision-making. Even before one collection is launched, the next is already in progress. Production timelines are often tight, sometimes leading to rushed decisions in label design and manufacturing. This can result in avoidable mistakes that affect the final product’s quality.

How to avoid it:

• Plan the design and production of labels in advance, ensuring they are an integral part of the overall collection development.
• Work with reliable suppliers who can meet deadlines without compromising quality.
• Conduct thorough reviews and testing before mass production to identify potential issues.

7. Lack of market or segment knowledge

In addition to the regulations mentioned earlier, each market has different expectations regarding labels. A design that works well in one country may not be suitable for another due to consumer preferences. For example, in some Asian countries, consumers prefer more detailed labels with additional information about care instructions and material origins, whereas in European markets, the trend leans towards more minimalist and sustainable labels.

How to avoid it:

• Research consumer expectations in each market where the garment will be sold.
• Adapt the design and information according to the preferences of the target audience, including accurate translations if necessary.
• Consider cultural factors in label design to better connect with customers in each region.

In the fashion industry, every detail matters—starting with the labels. A poorly designed label can lead to unnecessary costs, legal issues, and a negative impact on consumer perception of your brand. That’s why at Indet, we design and manufacture labels that not only meet the highest quality standards but also enhance your brand’s value in the market.