Behind the Scenes of Developing Adidas and Ivy Park Samples for Beyoncé

Creating samples for a high-profile collaboration like Adidas and Ivy Park by Beyoncé is never straightforward. While the technical design took place in Los Angeles the initial reference samples were produced in China and ultimately faced unique challenges. From pattern issues to pandemic restrictions, the team had to adapt quickly and creatively. This post shares the journey of developing and perfecting samples for Beyoncé’s photoshoot and infamous unboxing experience, highlighting the dedication and problem-solving behind the scenes.

Early Challenges with Patterns and Production

The initial patterns for the Ivy Park collection posed problems from the start. Although the tech pack designs were developed in Los Angeles, the development took place in China. This geographical split created communication gaps and delays. The patterns did not translate well to the production process, leading to sizing and fitting issues that threatened the timeline.

The team quickly realized that simply sending the original patterns overseas was not enough. They needed to develop new samples and duplicates that corrected these flaws before mass production could begin. This meant revisiting the designs, adjusting measurements, and ensuring the materials matched the intended look and feel.

Alterations completed by ALYYO waistband was assembled wrong our team carefully removed and turned all waistbands around for the stripes to align.

After the sample alterations were made.

Creative Solutions During a Pandemic

The pandemic added another layer of complexity. Travel restrictions and limited access to suppliers made it difficult to source materials and hold in-person meetings. Despite these obstacles, the team remained committed to delivering high-quality samples.

One key strategy was using excess materials from previous runs to make alterations. This approach saved time and resources while allowing the team to experiment with different fabric combinations and finishes. The creativity extended to pattern corrections, where small tweaks in seam placement and cut lines made a significant difference in fit and appearance.

Fitting Sessions and Collaboration

A crucial step was holding a fitting session at the Adidas office. This allowed the team to see the samples on real bodies and make immediate adjustments. The session was intense but productive, with designers, pattern makers, and fit specialists working side by side.

The fitting revealed subtle issues that only became apparent when the garments were worn. For example, some pieces needed more room in the shoulders, while others required length adjustments. These insights fed back into the sample development process, ensuring the final products met the high standards expected for Beyoncé’s photoshoot.

1ST Fitting at Adidas HQ

2nd Virtual Fitting

Impact on Mass Production

The work on samples and pattern corrections was essential for preparing the collection for mass production. By addressing problems early, the team avoided costly errors and delays later in the supply chain. The corrected patterns were sent back to the international manufacturing team with clear specifications and sizing guides.

This attention to detail ensured that the final products matched the vision of the designers and the expectations of Beyoncé’s team. The samples not only served as prototypes but also as quality benchmarks for the entire production run.

ALYYO Shortened sleeves and Waist length on all Jackets.