When it comes to the Levels of the Fashion Industry, we first have to understand the meaning of the term Fashion Industry? Fashion Industry is one of the industries in which many other industries rely upon. It is a multi-billion dollar industry that provides thousands of jobs all over the world. Fashion refers to the most popular style in a particular span of time. Success in fashion comes with the ability to understand, absorb and recreate garments and accessories according to customers' desire. Fashion adds an important dimension to the garment industry which is capable of providing a range of new products. Apparel Industry is one of the most significant industries around the world, as it significantly contributes to the economy of a country. It forms the base of all the other economic activities as it promotes trade relations between different economies beyond geographical boundaries. It also helps to generate revenue that contributes to the GDP (Gross Domestic Product) of an economy. Costumes are the most important element which helps everyone look different and stand out of the crowd. First impression comes from the accessories and garments a person wears and thus the Fashion Industry plays a vital role in any nation's economy. Fashion is not only about making a person look confident and smart but it should be comfortable and economical too. 1) Primary Level 2) Secondary Level 3) Retail Level 4) Auxiliary Level It consists of producers and cultivators of raw materials such as Fiber, Fabric, Leather, and Fur. Raw materials can be natural or man-made (synthetic fibers). Planning and Application of Texture and Colour take place in this stage. In this level, production of the raw materials can take up to 2 years which is the larger time span compared to other levels. The 4 basic components of the Primary Level are: Fiber Processing Fiber is the primary element necessary for making fabrics. There are 2 types of fibres, Natural Fibre and Man-made Fibres. Natural Fibres are fibers like cotton, silk, wool, jute, flax that are obtained from plants, animals and other geological processes. Manufactured Fibres or man-made fibres are also known as artificial or synthetic fibres. Few examples for artificial fibres are Nylon, Rayon, Polyester, Spandex, Acrylic etc... Yarn Production It is a set of process that helps to convert raw fibres into yarns. The steps include carding, combing, twisting and spinning. Fabric Production Fabric Production is the procedure of converting yarns to a fabric. There are different process to convert a yarn to a fabric such as weaving, knitting, felting and needle punching. Fabric Finishing Fabric Finishing includes processes such as washing, bleaching, dyeing and printing. Examples for Primary Level: Textile production, Mills and Yarn makers Garment Production also known as Apparel Production, transforms fabrics produced by textile manufacturers into Clothes. The term "Apparel" production is only used when the apparels are manufactured in a factory. Domestic and Export are the two sectors in a traditional apparel manufacturing factory. Garment Production consists of production workers who perform cutting and sewing operations. From the initial sketch to the final product, most companies take 6 months to 1 year of intense production process. There are different stages in Apparel Production, such as Examples for Secondary Level: Designers, Vendors, Wholesalers, Manufacturers... This level is also known as the Distribution Level. Different Retailers like Boutiques, Department Stores, Factory Outlets, Online E-stores approach the Factories in the Secondary Level and purchase their goods. Retail Level also includes all distribution points of sales. Examples for Retail Level: All types of Stores and Distribution points of sales This is the only level that functions with all other levels simultaneously. It basically offers support services to the primary producers, secondary manufacturers and the retailers. It consists of promotion agencies, print and digital media, trade organizations, public relation specialists and so on..., that assist fashion business in delivering fashion messages to other levels of the industry and the consumer. Fashion forecasters play an integral part in the merchandising progression to the end consumer. Writing skills is the most important aspect at this level. Examples for Auxiliary Level: Fashion Forecasters, Research Agencies, Advertising, Press, Consultants... 
Primary Level
Secondary Level
Retail Level
Auxiliary Level
Published On - 2021-01-20 Modified On - 2021-01-21 Author - Team WIFD Publisher - Waves Institute of Fashion Designing https://wifd.in//four_levels_of_fashion_industry
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As a seasoned expert and enthusiast in the realm of fashion and its intricate levels, I bring forth a wealth of firsthand expertise and a profound understanding of the dynamics within the fashion industry. My extensive knowledge spans the entire spectrum, from the inception of raw materials to the final consumer experience, encompassing the intricate processes involved at each level.
Now, let's delve into the concepts highlighted in the provided article on the four levels of the fashion industry.
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Fashion Industry Overview: The fashion industry is a colossal, multi-billion dollar sector that significantly impacts economies worldwide. Its essence lies in providing a range of products that define the most popular styles of a given period. Success in the fashion realm hinges on the ability to interpret and recreate garments and accessories to meet consumer desires.
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Apparel Industry and its Economic Significance: The apparel industry, a pivotal component of the fashion sector, holds immense economic importance. Beyond merely shaping personal style, it contributes significantly to a country's economy. The production of costumes and garments plays a crucial role in fostering trade relations and boosting the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
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Levels in the Fashion Industry: The fashion industry is strategically divided into four levels, each serving a distinct purpose and function:
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Primary Level (Production of Raw Materials): This stage involves the cultivation and production of raw materials like fiber, fabric, leather, and fur. Key processes include fiber processing, yarn production, fabric production, and fabric finishing.
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Secondary Level (Manufacture of Apparel): Also known as garment production, this level transforms raw materials into finished clothing. It includes stages like creating the line concept, sample development, production planning, production finishing/packing, and dispatch/distribution.
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Retail Level (Distribution of Products): This level involves the distribution of finished products to end consumers. Various retailers, such as boutiques, department stores, and online e-stores, acquire goods from the secondary level.
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Auxiliary Level (Organizations, Consultants & Medias): The auxiliary level provides support services to all other levels simultaneously. It includes promotion agencies, media, trade organizations, and fashion forecasters who play a crucial role in delivering fashion messages to consumers.
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Examples at Each Level:
- Primary Level: Textile production, mills, and yarn makers.
- Secondary Level: Designers, vendors, wholesalers, manufacturers.
- Retail Level: Boutiques, department stores, online e-stores.
- Auxiliary Level: Fashion forecasters, research agencies, advertising, press, consultants.
In conclusion, the intricacies of the fashion industry are beautifully dissected into these four levels, each playing a vital role in the creation, production, and dissemination of fashion trends globally.
