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What are "sample products" and "B-grade products"?

"Sample products" and "B-grade products" are frequently used apparel terms. We can imagine what they mean, but what exactly do they mean?

"Sample products are products that are produced prior to full production and are mainly used for press releases, etc. B-products are second-class products that have minor damage such as small scratches, fraying, or stains. However, sample products are almost identical to the final product, and in most cases the damage is not noticeable, so you can wear them without any problems. In the case of sample products, the size may differ from the standard range, so we recommend trying them on."

Sample and B-grade products may be marked with tags or stickers, so this is one way to tell them apart.
*The way things are written may vary depending on Shops.

We handle sample products and B-grade products.
What is the store's IN?
What should I look for in the store?

During sample and B-grade fairs, which are held several times a year, IN for the fair POP (bottom left in photo) at the entrance of participating stores. Once you enter the store, try to find the corner or dedicated rack with the sample and B-grade POPs. The location varies depending on the store, but there may be dedicated racks set up next to the entrance, or they may be grouped together in a corner at the back. (POP designs may vary from store to store.)

Fashion insiders share exclusive insider stories
"That's why sample and B-products are so appealing!"

If you can find your favorite item among the sample products and B-grade products, you can have a more satisfying shopping experience! We asked two fashion professionals who work in the fashion industry about the appeal of this.

Writer Kojima (hereinafter K): There are no negative impressions associated with sample products or B-grade products, there is only expectation (laughs).

Stylist MORIYA (hereinafter M): Yes, me too! Especially when working in the fashion industry, you come across these things all the time, and often you're looking for sample items or B-grade products right from the start.

K: For example, it's common to find a color variation that has been dropped (it was a sample but was dropped in the final product), and it's fun to discover, "There's pink too!" It's a color that's not available in the final product, so it's truly a one-of-a-kind item!

M: The powerful phrase "one of a kind" tickles my heart (laughs). I actually prefer items that are longer than the actual product. Also, I'm lucky when an item that was sold out in the store is still available as a sample.

K: Aren't there many things that you wouldn't know were B-grade unless you were told? In fact, I would ask the Shops assistant, "What makes it B-grade?"

M: For example, some B-grade items have designs that naturally fray when worn, so even if you buy new items, they will end up fraying anyway, so I don't mind them at all.

K: After that, I look at the discount rate and price, and the gap makes me excited again.

M: It's wonderfully surprising, like "This is the price!?" (laughs). Samples and B-grade products are super reasonably priced and it's like a treasure hunt where you can find rare items. That's the best part of shopping!

PROFILE