top of page
Writer's pictureShraddha Srivastava

Exploring different types of Trims of the Garment Industry

Updated: Jan 29

Dive into the world of garments, and different types of trims and discover the secret to unlocking a 30% boost in your clothing's selling price. A small 3-5% investment in premium trims can redefine your brand, elevating both aesthetics and profitability. But, if you want to achieve cost efficiency, as that is important in your market or for your brand, you can always consult the production experts at NoName who can advise you on how to reduce your garment production cost by providing trims, accessories, and raw material that is lower cost but does not compromise much on the quality of the finished garment.


Different types of trims in the garment industry

Unlock the path to cost-efficient couture by consulting the production experts at NoName. Learn strategic insights on reducing garment production costs without compromising quality. Elevate your brand's profitability without sacrificing excellence – a journey tailored for those who value both efficiency and excellence in the world of fashion.


Join us as we unravel the impact of trims on the garment industry and unveil the key to turning every piece into a premium fashion statement.


What makes Trims the focal point of any garment?


Trims, encompassing buttons, laces, fusing, labels, threads, and more, are the unsung heroes of garment construction. Beyond their functional role in providing closures or reinforcements, trims are the exquisite details that elevate a garment from ordinary to extraordinary. They are stitched together with any garment to create a narrative of craftsmanship, adding personality and character to every piece. Imagine a garment without carefully chosen buttons or a label bearing the brand's insignia – it would lack the finishing touch that transforms it into a fashion statement. Trims not only contribute to the overall aesthetics but also play a crucial role in enhancing durability and wearability. 


In the realm of fashion, trims are the punctuation marks – the commas, exclamation points, and accents that shape the narrative. Their importance extends beyond functionality; they are the signature strokes that distinguish a brand's identity. Whether it's the subtle elegance of a well-chosen button or the branded label that signifies authenticity, trims are the elements that leave a lasting impression, making each garment a work of art in its own right.


Types of Trims:


Trims are divided into two types:

  • Visible trims: These are trims that you can see on the outside of the garment, such as buttons, labels, sewing thread, zippers, Velcro, and more. Visible trims are considered more significant than invisible ones.

  • Invisible trims: These trims are used on the inside or inner side of garments and cannot be seen from the outside. Examples include interlining and lining.

Different Types of Trims Used in the Garments Industry


Button:


Buttons are commonly used trims in clothing. They're tiny, round objects made of plastic, wood, metal, or other materials. Buttons serve two purposes—they fasten garments and add decoration. There are different types like flat buttons and shank buttons, with various styles and colors. Buttons play a big role in today's fashion, being versatile and fitting with any outfit.


Different types of buttons

Buttons in clothing come in many types, each with its own style and purpose. Let's break it down:


  • Flat Buttons: These are common buttons with holes in the center. They come in round, square, oval, or floral shapes.

  • Shank Buttons: These have a raised stem that makes sewing easier and lifts the button slightly from the fabric.

  • Stud Buttons: Often found on jeans, these buttons have two parts that snap together.

  • Toggle Buttons: Two separate pieces that loop through each other, often seen on coats and sweaters.

  • Decorative Buttons: These buttons add artistic flair with unique materials, designs, or embellishments and may not serve a functional purpose.

  • Snap Buttons: Common on casual wear, these buttons have two metal pieces that click together.

  • Plastic: Affordable and versatile, available in various colors and styles but may be less durable.

  • Metal: Strong and durable, often used on jeans, jackets, and coats. Brass, silver, and gunmetal are popular choices.

  • Wooden: Adds a natural touch and comes in various wood types, suitable for rustic or eco-friendly garments.

  • Fabric: Overlapped pieces of fabric sewn together, creating a textured and unique look.

  • Shell: Made from mother-of-pearl or other sea shells, offering a shimmery and elegant touch.

  • Glass: Transparent or colored, adding a delicate and sophisticated element.

  • Pearl: Cultured or genuine pearls offer a timeless and luxurious option.

  • Leather: Provides a refined and unique look, available in real or faux leather.

  • Ceramic: Adds a rustic or artistic touch, often hand-painted with intricate designs.

Additionally, there are coconut buttons, which are durable, affordable, and come in various shapes and sizes. They can be easily sewn onto fabric, adding aesthetic value. This variety of buttons gives designers and crafters a wide range of options to express their creativity and enhance their garments.


Sewing Thread:


Sewing thread is a must-have trim for making garments. It ensures all the parts of a garment stay securely together. You can't knit or weave with sewing thread; it's only used for stitching. Threads can be natural, synthetic, or a blend of both. There are different types like core-spun thread and multifilament thread. Sewing thread is vital for the garment industry, as clothes can't be stitched without it. It affects how a final item looks and how durable it is.


sewing threads in the garment industry

Cotton Thread:

  • Soft Cotton Threads: Basic and easy to use, they are only bleached and dyed.

  • Glace Cotton Threads: Treated with wax and special chemicals for a hard and glossy look, with better abrasion resistance.

  • Mercerized Cotton Threads: Treated with a caustic solution for a smooth, lustrous, and stronger finish.

Silk Thread:

  • Costlier than cotton, comes in lightweight, medium weight, and heavy weight.

  • Ideal for embroidery and sewing silk or woolen products.

  • Flexible, leaves no holes on seams, available in double ply or triple ply.

Woolen Thread:

  • Stronger than cotton and linen threads.

  • Used for embroidery and blanket stitches.

  • Types: Persian (heavy weight), Tapestry (medium weight), Crewel (light weight).

Linen Thread:

  • Oldest textile sewing thread, suitable for lock stitch seams.

  • Easily dyed, swells when wet, gives a natural look to seams.

Polyester Thread:

  • Strong and easy to sew, suitable for knitted, woven, or leather products.

  • Lubricated for smooth fabric passage.

  • Shiny appearance compared to plain cotton threads.

Nylon Thread:

  • Strong, fine, and durable for sewing synthetic materials.

  • Suitable for light to medium weight clothing.

  • Sometimes specially lubricated for high temperature resistance.

Spun Thread:

  • Can be natural (cotton, wool) or synthetic (polyester).

  • Durable and long-lasting seams.

  • Made from short fibers twisted together.

Core-Spun Thread:

  • Industrial thread with continuous filament in the center and staple fibers around it.

  • 40-50% stronger than normal spun thread of the same weight.

  • Reduces broken stitches when sewing heavy fabrics like denim.

In sewing, there's a thread for every need, from basic cotton to silky and durable synthetics. Choose the one that suits your project best!


Zipper:


Zippers are essential trims for garments. They are sliding fasteners made of interlocking teeth attached to tapes. These tapes are then sewn onto the garment. Zippers open and close specific parts of a garment and serve both functional and decorative purposes. Types of zippers include regular, invisible, separated, and continuous zippers, made from materials like plastic, metal, or nylon.


Zipper in the garment industry

Zippers might seem small, but they're like a team of superheroes for our clothes, making sure everything stays in place. Let's look at the different types:


  • Metal Zippers: These are strong and tough, often on jeans and jackets. They can be shiny silver, gold, or sleek gunmetal.

  • Coil Zippers: Flexible and quiet, made from nylon or plastic, great for comfy sweaters and casual wear.

  • Molded Plastic Zippers: Lightweight and versatile, they come in lots of colors, blending well with dresses, skirts, and delicate clothes.

  • Open-End Zippers: They split at the bottom, good for jackets and boots. It's like two zippers saying goodbye with a handshake.

  • Closed-End Zippers: Found on trousers and bags, they're like a one-piece wonder, keeping things close up.

  • Two-Way Zippers: These zip both ways, like on jackets and luggage, making them extra handy.

  • Visible Zippers: They stand out, adding a design touch with metallic accents or different colors.

  • Invisible Zippers: Blending in like magic, they're great for elegant dresses and sleek jackets.

  • Water-Resistant Zippers: These are like raincoats for zippers, keeping you dry during stormy adventures.

  • Decorative Zippers: More than just for closing, they become part of the design with cool textures, colors, or even charms. Great for funky jackets.

Remember, from tough warriors to fashion experts, there's a zipper for every job and style. So, the next time you zip up, think of the quiet hero doing its magic behind the scenes!


One of the biggest zipper suppliers is the YKK Group, and guess what? They're not just a supplier – they're actually the world's largest zipper manufacturer! They've been leading the zipper scene since way back in 1934 and are a big deal in 71 countries with 109 places where they make zippers. People love their zippers because they're super good quality, come in lots of types, and are known for being trustworthy. Loads of different companies, making everything from clothes to luggage, like using YKK zippers!


Swing Tags:


Swing tags are those little tags you find on clothes that give you extra info about the product. They're usually made of paper, fabric, plastic, metal, or leather and come in different shapes. You'll see them attached to clothes with thread or a plastic joiner.


These tags are super important for a clothing brand. They help label clothes without messing them up. What's on these tags? Well, you can find the brand name, price, a short description of the product, how to take care of it, and any warranty info. It's like a mini guide for your new clothes!


motif

Motif:


Motifs enhance the beauty of garments. They are decorative elements that can be attached outside the garment. Motifs can take the form of symbols, logos, or designs. A motif is a recurring concept, pattern, or idea in textile arts. It can be of any size and often features the company name, trademark, or other symbols.


Rivets

Rivets:


Rivets are permanent fasteners with two components—a smooth shaft with a head and an opposite head called a tail. They are punched into garments to fasten two ends together. Rivets have a history dating back to the invention of denim or jeans. They are placed on parts of jeans likely to tear, helping to keep the fabric together and extend the garment's life. Invented in 1873, riveting workwear trousers started the legend that made blue jeans famous for their durability.


Twill tape

Twill Tape:


Twill tape is a woven fabric trim that looks like a herringbone twill. It can be made from natural fibers like cotton or linen, as well as synthetic fibers like polyester. Twill tape is used as reinforcement in garments.


Shoulder pad

Shoulder Pad:


Shoulder pads are used in tailored garments to enhance their appearance, making them attractive and comfortable for a long time. They serve both functional and decorative purposes and can be made from various materials, with foam being the most popular. Shoulder pads are a standard component in both men's and women's tailored clothing, providing improved attractiveness, comfort, and longevity.



Fusing: 


Fusing is a way to stick a layer called interlining to fabric, and it's super important in making clothes. They use heat and pressure to melt a coating on the interlining into the fabric, making them stick together strongly. There are three types of fusing in making clothes:


Reverse Fusing:

  • Imagine putting the interlining on a bed, and the part with the special coating faces up.

  • Then, the fabric of the clothes is placed on the coated part and pressed together to fuse.

  • It's called "reverse fusing" because the interlining area is smaller than the fabric, making it a bit tricky to spread properly.

Sandwich Fusing:

  • Usually done by a continuous fusing machine that heats both sides of the fabric.

  • Two pairs of fabrics are fused together, meaning two interlinings are placed between or in the middle of two fabric layers.

  • If the heat and pressure aren't just right, you might end up with all four layers sticking together, which isn't great.

  • It speeds up production but can be tricky and sometimes results in unsatisfactory fused garments.

Double Fusing:

  • This happens in two steps during fusing.

  • Two types of interlining are joined with the fabric at the same time.

  • The temperature needs careful control, and it's essential to set the interlining and fabric parts just right.

  • Usually used in making collars and the front part of jackets.


Lining:


The lining is a trim used inside a garment and can be made of woven or knitted fabric. It adds a smooth and lustrous layer, sewn with the main body fabric to offer comfort and insulation. Linings contribute to the stability of the garment, providing a useful component on the inner side for decoration and warmth. Linings are typically made from polyester, polyamide, acetate, or viscose and are attached to the main garment by sewing.


Interlining in the garment industry

Interlining:


Interlining is a material used between the shell fabric and lining in a garment to reinforce and control its shape. It improves clothing performance and is necessary for every garment. Interlining is commonly used in collars, cuffs, facing, jacket and coat fronts, waistbands, etc. It can be either fused or sewn to the fabric to enhance the garment's shape.


Hook & Loop:


Hook and loop fasteners are made of two thin plastic strip sheets, one with tiny hooks and the other with loops. They cling together when pressed and can be separated when pulled apart. These fasteners, popularly known by the trade name 'Velcro,' are used as an alternative to buttons or zippers. Velcro was invented by a Swiss inventor and is made of two woven polyamide tapes with tiny hooks and loops. It finds applications in items like shoes, belts, sportswear, children's clothing, and medical textiles.

Hook and Eye in the garment industry

Hook & Eye:


A hook and eye closure is a simple way to fasten clothing by using various sizes of hooks and eyes, ranging from small to large. They are typically used in less stressed areas of the garment and are often made of metal or a combination of thread and metal.




Patch:


A patch is a type of trim made from fabric, leather, or other materials that is sewn or heated onto the garment. Sewing patches onto clothing was an original and attractive idea, and even today, many well-known brands, like Levis, continue to use them, often with special meanings associated.

Padding

Padding:


Padding is a thin, soft material used inside clothing items, commonly found in jackets, bras, or other outerwear made of synthetic fibers like polyester.


Snap Fastener:


A snap fastener, also known as a snap, popper, or press stud, consists of two interlocking discs used to secure clothing instead of buttons. These discs hold fast until a certain amount of force is applied, and they can be attached to fabric by hammering, plying, sewing, or using a specific punch and die set.


Elastics

Elastic:


Elastic is a crucial trim used to make garments more comfortable for the wearer. It is made from rubber or elastic cores wrapped in polyester, nylon, or cotton fiber, and then knitted, woven, or braided. Elastic is commonly used in items for both boys and ladies.


Label:


Labels contain important information about the garment, such as size, fiber composition, brand name, care instructions, etc. They are made of woven fabric or paper and are attached during the garment's sewing process, usually on the inner part. There are various types of labels in the garment industry, but a care label is a must-have for every garment, providing essential information for the wearer.


Labels in the garment industry

In the fashion world, there are six common types of labels:


  • Brand Labels: These labels show off a company's name, logo, or symbol. They can be taken off or stay on the clothes. Brand labels are like tiny pieces of fabric that represent a company's uniqueness.

  • Care Labels: These labels give info about what material the item is made of and how to wash or take care of it. Care labels stay on the clothes permanently and are easy to read.

  • Composition Labels: These labels tell you what the garment is made of and the percentage of each material. For example, a composition label might say a piece of clothing is 95% cotton and 5% spandex.

  • Size Labels: These labels tell you what size the clothes are.

  • Flag Labels: These are used in the fashion industry.

  • Manufacturer Codes: These are used in the fashion industry.

  • Special Labels: These are also used in the fashion industry.

These labels help you know more about your clothes, from the brand to how to take care of them, and even the size!


Cord in the garment industry

Cord:

The cord is made by twisting or combining two or more strands of yarn. It's used in various textile arts like dressmaking, upholstery, macramé, and couching. A soft cotton cord is often used as the filling for piping in garments.


Cords, those simple strings, are like fashion heroes with important jobs in clothing. They do more than you might think! Let's explore the different types:



  • Drawstrings: These are like adjustable champions on pants, hoodies, and backpacks. They can be comfy cotton on sweatpants or pretty satin on dresses.

  • Decorative Cords: More than just for function, these add style with braided designs, metallic threads, or colorful accents. Imagine fancy piping on a jacket or cute pom-poms on a sweater.

  • Suspender Cords: These keep trousers up with sturdy elegance, coming in leather, braided cotton, or even delicate chains. Picture classic braces on formal outfits or casual straps on overalls.

  • Cotton Cords: Soft and natural, great for drawstrings on sweatshirts and kids' clothes. Think cozy comfort.

  • Polyester Cords: Strong and durable, used for outdoor gear and backpacks. Imagine vibrant colors that last.

  • Satin Cords: Smooth and luxurious, adding elegance to dresses and lingerie. Think shimmery accents.

  • Elastic Cords: Stretchy and great for waistbands and activewear. Picture comfy movement and a secure fit.

  • Metallic Cords: Sparkly and shiny, they elevate evening gowns and accessories. Imagine glamorous accents.

  • Hemp Cords: Eco-friendly and naturally strong, a good choice for drawstrings. Think earthy textures.

  • Twisted Cords: Adding texture, they look cool on drawstrings. Imagine a rustic and tactile feel.

  • Reflective Cords: For safety and visibility on sports gear. Picture runners shining bright and cyclists staying seen.

These cords do a lot more than you realize, making clothes comfy, stylish, and even safer!



Eyelet/Grommet:


An eyelet or grommet is a two-part piece, usually metal, pressed together to secure or reinforce a pre-punched hole in a garment. They allow drawcords to pass through and are essential trims for hoodies. Grommets are larger and used for heavier materials, while eyelets are commonly used to close off drawstring casings, providing a polished appearance and serving as a required trim for hoodies.


Seam Sealing Tape:


Seam sealing tape is adhesive tape that helps prevent humidity and water penetration in garments while adding extra strength to the seams.


Lace

Lace:


Lace, an expensive material, is used as a trim in garments, especially in home furnishings, cuffs, collars, and other clothing. It can be created manually or artificially, forming a web-like pattern using yarn or thread. Lace is sewn into various clothing items like bralettes, dresses, skirts, and is now more commonly made from cotton thread.


In the world of lace, there are two main types: handmade, which is also known as "real" lace, and machine-made lace. For real lace, linen thread is typically used, especially for expensive lace varieties. However, nowadays, you can find lace made from cotton, rayon, nylon, silk, or other yarns, catering to different qualities and styles, including machine-made lace.


a) Handmade Lace or Real Lace:


  • Bobbin Lace: Delicate lace created by weaving threads with bobbins.

  • Darned Lace: Lace made by repairing or filling in areas with stitches.

  • Needlepoint Lace: Lace crafted with a needle, creating intricate designs.

  • Crocheted Lace: Lace produced using crochet techniques.

  • Tatting Lace or Knotted Lace: Lace made by tying knots with a shuttle or needle.

b) Machine-Made Lace:


  • Leavers Lace: Lace created using Leavers machines for detailed and intricate patterns.

  • Nottingham Lace: Lace made on machines, often featuring floral or geometric designs.

  • Bobbin Lace: Machine-produced lace imitating the handcrafted bobbin lace.

  • Raschel Lace: Lace created using Raschel machines, known for its durability.

  • Ratiné Lace: Lace with a textured appearance, made on specialized machines.

  • Schiffli Lace: Lace crafted using Schiffli embroidery machines for a variety of patterns.

For fashion retailers, understanding these distinctions can help in offering a diverse range of lace options to cater to different tastes and preferences among customers. Whether it's the intricate charm of handmade lace or the efficiency of machine-made lace, there's a variety to suit every fashion need.


Braid:


Braid, also known as trim, is used in garments for tying and as a decorative design element. It adds a stylish touch to the fashion industry.


Hasps and Slider:


Hasps and Slider is a metal fastening system used on shoulder straps to adjust their length by sliding. The hasp is connected to a button fastened to the bib of overalls. This pattern is often seen on infant clothing, giving baby clothes a stylish appearance thanks to Hasps and Slider.


beads

Beads:


Beads are tiny, rounded pieces made of plastic or similar materials. They usually have a hole, allowing them to be woven into a necklace or sewn onto fabric. There are various types of beads, including Czech glass beads, Miyuki seed beads, Toho seed beads, Swarovski crystal beads, and more. These beads come in different shapes and are used for crafting and embroidery. Czech machine-cut glass is often polished to make crystal beads with shapes like drums, rounds, bicones, drops, rondelles, briolettes, and cubes.


Sequins

Sequins:

Sequins are small, shiny plates used as decorative ornaments, especially on clothing. They come in various colors and are categorized as coated, coated with pearl, coated with holograms, and metal. Sequin trim is known for its striking appearance and is commonly used as a dazzling embellishment.


Rhinestones:

Rhinestones, originally rock crystals from the Rhine, now refer to lead glass varieties. They come in different styles, including glue-on flat back rhinestones, sew-on rhinestones, and flat back hot-fix rhinestones. Rhinestones are widely used as a trim to add sparkle and style to various products for infants or women.


Ribbon

Ribbon:

A ribbon, also called a riband, is a short, flexible band made of cloth, plastic, or metal. It is mainly used for tying and binding and is often made of silk or other materials. Ribbons serve practical, decorative, and symbolic purposes and are commonly used in clothing and various cultural practices worldwide.





Drawstrings

Drawstring:

A drawstring is a retractable cord, ribbon, or tape made of textile or non-textile material with two loose ends. It fits snugly around something or remains open to change the size of the garment opening. Drawstrings are commonly used to adjust and secure clothing.







Fringe

Fringe:

Fringe is a simple trim that can enhance the elegant appearance of any garment. It is a decorative textile border sewn onto the edge of products like drapery, flags, or epaulettes, adding a stylish touch.







Fur

Fur:

The fur trim is not only warm but also adds a stylish and gorgeous element to garments. Many costume designers, such as Duru Olowu, Proenza Schouler, and Alberta Ferretti, use fur to give their creations a distinctive and competitive edge.






Feathers

Feathers:

Feathers were highly popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were a fashionable accessory, taken from various birds and sewn onto clothing and hats. This trend boosted the economy but posed a serious threat to bird species, pushing some dangerously close to extinction. Nowadays, synthetic fiber feathers are more commonly used as dress trims rather than on hats.




Tassel

Tassel:

A tassel is an ornament made of gathered yarn or thread with a solid, large assembly point that connects to a cord. It is mainly used in sarees and dupattas to add an extra stylish touch.






NoName - A Leading Clothing Manufacturer in India


NoName, a leading clothing manufacturer in India, distinguishes itself in the garment industry by prioritizing sustainability in its practices. Specializing in high-quality apparel, NoName stands out for its meticulous use of various trims, including buttons, zippers, and threads, to enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal in their garments.


As a key player in India's clothing sector, NoName is committed to eco-friendly practices, using sustainable materials for trims and adopting ethical manufacturing processes. This commitment extends across the entire production cycle, from fabric sourcing to packaging, contributing to the global movement for environmentally conscious fashion.


NoName is a private label clothing manuafcturer

NoName's emphasis on sustainability aligns with the growing demand for responsible fashion choices. Beyond its role as a clothing manufacturer in India, NoName serves as an exemplary model for the industry, showcasing how a brand can seamlessly integrate style with environmental responsibility. With its diverse range of trims and a dedication to sustainability, NoName continues to influence the future trajectory of the Indian apparel industry, setting a standard for socially and environmentally conscious fashion practices.


Conclusion: In the ever-evolving landscape of the garment industry, trims emerge as the unsung heroes, transforming ordinary fabrics into extraordinary fashion statements. From buttons and zippers to lace and fur, trims are the artisans that add the finishing touches, breathing life and character into every piece of clothing. Our exploration of the diverse world of trims reveals their pivotal role in enhancing aesthetics, functionality, and environmental sustainability.


As we delved into the myriad types of trims, each with its unique purpose, it became evident that trims are not merely embellishments but storytellers. They convey the designer's creativity, brand identity, and commitment to environmental consciousness. NoName, a leading clothing manufacturer in India, exemplifies this narrative. By incorporating a meticulous selection of trims and prioritizing sustainable practices, NoName stands as a beacon in the industry.


Discover the magic of trims with NoName, a garment manufacturer in India, where sustainability meets style. Explore our collection of meticulously crafted garments, adorned with thoughtfully chosen trims that resonate with the conscious consumer. 


Join us in embracing a fashion revolution—one where every thread, button, and label contributes to a sustainable and stylish future. Visit our website or schedule a meeting and witness the fusion of craftsmanship, innovation, and environmental responsibility. Contact us and make a choice that goes beyond fashion; make a choice for a better, more conscious tomorrow with Noname.








1,753 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page