How to Prepare for Sourcing at MAGIC: Essential Tips for Fashion Brands

Hey friends, welcome back to the blog! I recently received a great question in my Instagram DMs, and I thought it would be helpful to share it here since many of you might have similar questions. Let’s dive in!

The question reads:

"Hi Jasmine, thank you so much for your helpful online course yesterday. I've watched the replay today and it's given me a lot of clarity, so thank you. I wanted to ask if you have any advice for approaching manufacturers during trade shows. I'm attending the Sourcing at MAGIC event in September in New York City. Any tips you can provide to help me be better prepared would be so appreciated."

First off, thank you so much for your question! I’ve already responded directly to this person, but I want to share my advice here for anyone planning to attend Sourcing at MAGIC or any other sourcing trade show.

What is Sourcing at MAGIC?

For those unfamiliar, Sourcing at MAGIC is part of the MAGIC trade show group, which is a massive event where brands exhibit their collections. However, the Sourcing at MAGIC show is where the magic happens for anyone developing a fashion line. Here, you’ll find manufacturers, fabric suppliers, trim suppliers—basically, everything you need to bring your garments to life.

This event happens twice a year in Las Vegas and New York City, and if you’re planning to attend, you’ll want to be well-prepared to make the most of it.

How to Prepare for Sourcing at MAGIC

1. Have a Game Plan
   Before you even set foot in the trade show, make sure you know what you’re looking for. Trade shows are enormous, with hundreds of vendors showcasing their products. If you walk in without a plan, you might find yourself wandering aimlessly and missing out on key opportunities. Identify what you need in advance, whether it's a manufacturer, specific fabrics, or trim suppliers. Having a clear goal will help you stay focused and ensure you hit the booths that matter most.

2. Ask About Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs)
   As you visit different booths, always inquire about their MOQs. It’s easy to fall in love with a fabric or trim only to later find out that the supplier’s minimum order is way beyond your budget. Whether you’re dealing with fabric, trims, or manufacturers, make sure you know what their MOQ is upfront. This will save you time and disappointment later on.

3. Request Samples and Take Photos
   When you find fabrics or trims you love, ask for samples or take photos for reference. Some vendors bring samples with them to the show, while others might send them to you afterward. It’s always a good idea to select a few favorites and ask for a sample or header (a fabric card with all available colors) to be sent to you. This is invaluable as you build a fabric and trim library that you can refer back to for future collections.

4. Bring Business Cards and Collect Them
   Even in today’s digital world, business cards are still a trade show staple. Make sure you bring plenty of your own and don’t leave a booth without asking for one in return. I find it helpful to jot down notes on the back of each card to help you remember who you spoke with and what they offered.

5. Discuss Pricing and Turnaround Time
   Pricing is crucial, but so is turnaround time. When you’re speaking with manufacturers, don’t hesitate to ask for a ballpark estimate of how much your product might cost and, just as importantly, how long it will take to produce. Knowing the lead times can help you better plan your production schedule and avoid delays. For fabric and trim vendors, ask if the prices they quote include shipping, as this can significantly impact your budget.

6. Dress Comfortably and Stay Organized
   Trade shows mean a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Bring a tote bag to collect all the samples, business cards, and brochures you’ll gather throughout the day. While most shows offer free tote bags, it’s always good to have a backup. Staying organized will help you keep track of all the valuable information you collect.

7. Take Advantage of Seminars
   Many trade shows offer free seminars on topics like trend forecasting, sustainability, and brand building. These sessions can provide valuable insights and help you stay ahead of the curve. Make sure to carve out time in your schedule to attend a few.

8. Go in with Confidence
   It’s normal to feel a bit intimidated, especially if you’re just starting out. But remember, every established brand was once in your shoes. Approach each booth with confidence, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to share your vision. People are generally happy to help, and the more you engage, the more you’ll learn.

Final Thoughts

I hope these tips help you feel more prepared for Sourcing at MAGIC or any other fashion sourcing show. If you have any other questions or if you plan to attend a sourcing show, let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear about your experiences!

And before you go, if you’re looking for more resources to help build your fashion brand, check out the Make Good Fashion Shop for budget templates and other tools that can make running your business easier. Plus, don’t miss our free resources, packed with valuable tips and tricks for creating an amazing clothing brand.

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