The 2026 US Apparel Factory Directory
The world of apparel manufacturing can feel vast, complex and overwhelming. If you are just starting out with your fashion brand it can feel like a lot. If you are a seasoned pro, you probably are just sticking with the one factory you found because going elsewhere feels like too much. I could be wrong, but I’m guessing that researching and finding a factory is not one of the tasks that really drew you into the apparel industry. More than likely you have an amazing idea and you just want help bringing it to life!
Getting your clothing produced shouldn’t feel like a gamble or a second thought, so I wanted to help make things a little easier for you. Afterall, you already have a lot on your plate!
Introducing the 2026 US Apparel Factory Directory
I created the 2026 US Apparel Factory Directory, as a downloadable PDF, to help small fashion brands find the right production partners in the US- maybe even in your own backyard (ok, that may be a stretch, but I’ve pulled together lots of options.) I’ve painstakingly researched every single state to find manufacturing options that could be good for you!
Every factory listed in the directory meets the following criteria:
1) Is US Based
I think it’s safe to say that 2026 will still be a very volatile year for imported apparel production. I’m not dissuading you if this is what you are set on and I’m not anti-import. However, I think US producers could be a safer bet to avoid tariffs. Plus you have the bonus of speaking the same language, being in similar time zones, and maybe the option to drive to the factory if need be.
The 2026 US Apparel Factory Directory is comprehensive, but not exhaustive. I’ve done my best to find matches that can work for your brand, but there is the slight chance I have overlooked someone. If so, please let me know. Not every state has apparel manufacturers, so there is no guarantee that there is one in your backyard.
2) Produces apparel
There are A LOT of factories in the US. But, I really wanted to tailor the list to factories that specialize in clothing- what most of you are here for. If you are making backpacks, accessories, tents, outdoor gear, etc…you may not find what you are looking for with the directory.
Producing clothing is a specialized skill so I wanted to find manufacturers that advertised for this.
3) Is a small batch producer
Small batch production is really the sweet spot for startup fashion brands. This means that the manufacturer is willing to take on smaller order quantities than may be required for larger facilities. Small batch is generally considered anything under 500 units. However, just off the top of my head, many of the factories I found quoted even much smaller numbers.
Please keep in mind that I’m only going off the info from a website. It’s up to you to get in touch and find out the full offerings if a factory seems like a good match.
4) Has a professional website.
Gone are the days where word of mouth or just a phone number are sufficient. Website are a professional calling card and a verification that you are working with a legit business. A website lets you get the vibe of a place before you reach out.
Completely up to date
I have literally combed through every single one of the factory websites (over 80 of them) a few weeks ago (writing this post Jan 1st 2026). These factories, as far as their websites are concerned, are open for business. The 2026 US Apparel Factory Directory was a project based on frustration with online databases that promised factory matches. When I went deeper into the options, a lot of factories in other databases were no longer in business or didn’t even have a website. Even one of the major databases that requires you to enter in your information was shockingly obsolete.
You don’t have time to waste, that’s why every factory- from the face of the website, is a viable option. However, the apparel industry is volatile and ever changing. If you purchase the directory and find that one is no longer in business, please reach out to let me know.
The starting point you’ve been waiting for!
The 2026 US Apparel Factory Directory is intended as a boost to get you started. I’m not making any promises that you’ll find the perfect match- although that is the goal! Consider it a buffet of options in one place instead of you having to do all the research.