When it comes to selling products, brands have more options than ever. Two popular routes? Private label and white label. Before diving in, it’s key to understand how they work—and how they’re different.
Launching your own custom apparel line isn’t as hard as it sounds—especially with the right team behind you. We’ve helped hundreds of brands go from idea to sample to full production with private label lines that stand out..
What is “Labeling”?
Labeling is taking a product or service and putting your brand on it. A lot of times people confuse private labeling vs white labeling or use the words interchangeably, when in reality they are similar but very different. Let’s dive in!
Private Label vs White Label
PRIVATE LABEL
Private label apparel refers to products that are manufactured exclusively for your brand, often to your specifications (fabric, cut, fit, labeling, etc.). These items only carry your branding—they’re customized or semi-customized and typically not sold to other companies.
Example in apparel:
You work with a factory to produce a hoodie that you’ve chosen the fabric for, customized the cut, and added your logo to the neck label and hang tag. It’s only sold under your brand, and no one else can order that same exact style.
You control:
- Product specs (fabric, fit, trims)
- Labels & packaging
- MOQ (Minimum Order Quantities)
- Branding and pricing
WHITE LABEL
White label apparel refers to generic, pre-made products that are manufactured without a brand and can be sold by multiple businesses under different brand names. You simply add your logo or label to an existing blank product.
Example in apparel:
You buy a blank Bella+Canvas T-shirt, have it screen printed with your design, and sell it as part of your brand’s collection. That same tee is also sold by dozens of other brands—just with different graphics or tags.
You control:
- Decoration (screen print, embroidery, etc.)
- Brand label varies depending on brand you choose
- Retail price
Deep Dive into Private Label
Private label success starts with smart planning.
To build a strong private label product, you’ll need to invest in marketing, product development, and brand visibility. Just as crucial: understanding your target audience and creating products that match their style, needs, and preferences.
Timelines can vary widely.
Launching a private label product isn’t one-size-fits-all. A simple modification to an existing blank can move fast, but developing a custom fabric, silhouette, or specialty feature takes more time. Clear communication and consistent collaboration with your manufacturer or production team are key to staying on track.
Manufacturing methods are flexible.
Private label apparel can be created using a range of techniques—cut and sew, sublimation, screen printing, embroidery, or hybrid combinations—depending on the look, performance, and price point you’re aiming for. You’ll see private label products across fashion, sportswear, uniforms, merch drops, and corporate wear.
Bottom line? Control and customization.
Private labeling gives you full control over how your product is made, priced, and branded—but it comes with responsibility. Work with experienced partners, budget for the right resources, and stay focused on quality and fit for your target customer.
| Custom Apparel Source provides all the services you need to create your private label apparel and accessory line. | |
|---|---|
| LICENSING Category, retailer specific or full brand licensing agreements to merchandise, produce and distribute apparel goods through the wholesale channel. | SOURCING We bring an extensive factory network, backed by strong relationships and decades of experience, to find the right source for any given project. |
| DESIGN We possess a deep understanding of trends, fabrics, treatments, and techniques across a variety of style genres. We apply this to original content or to further merchandise licensed assets. | DISTRIBUTION Whether direct to consumer or bulk to retail, we have the expertise and experience to fulfill any order requirements. |
| PRODUCTION Both in-house and 3rd party, on-shore and off, our production management process is reliable, efficient and cost effective. We work with multiple production facilities capable of producing millions of units annually. |
Deep Dive into White Label
White labeling is often seen as the faster, more budget-friendly route compared to private labeling. Why? Because the product already exists—you’re not creating something new, just rebranding it as your own. In essence, white label products are pre-made, unbranded goods that multiple companies can purchase and sell under their own brand name.
You can’t alter the formula, ingredients, or core product features. What you can customize is the label, the packaging, and the way it’s presented to your audience. Think of it like a blank canvas: the product stays the same, but you get to design the outer look to match your brand. This approach allows manufacturers to distribute the same item to various retailers, each with their own unique spin on the branding.
Which Is Better For Me?
Can’t decide? We have several clients who utilize both. This allows them to create some items at a lower cost, bringing in income, as we work on developing white label items.
Which One Should I Choose?
Still unsure? Many of our clients use both options—this way, they can start selling some products quickly while we work on developing custom ones behind the scenes.
If you’re short on time and want to launch fast, white labeling is the way to go. It’s quick and easy, but you won’t have much control over the product itself.
If you have more time and want something unique, private labeling is a better fit. You’ll be able to customize the product, create samples, and build a full marketing strategy—but it does take longer to develop.
Contact Custom Apparel Source to discuss your needs and expectations. We also offer an Apparel Line review to help make the right decisions.
