I love pants. But when I started Nabee, one question kept stopping me: what sizes should I stock? Eventually, I realized I was asking the wrong person. Instead of guessing, I needed to ask my customers.

That idea became our made-to-measure pants. You can choose a waist from 24 to 60 inches, an inseam from 24 to 40 inches, a mid or high rise, and a straight or tapered fit. The point is simple: your pants should be made with you in mind. 

A small brand, run from Toronto

Right now, I run the whole brand from a corner of my apartment living room in Toronto. I'm also taking continuing-studies night classes in sewing and pattern making. I'm learning as I go, and I want to keep getting better at the craft behind the clothes.

Why I manufacture in China

All of my items are currently manufactured in China. China has an incredibly advanced and diverse manufacturing industry, with deep expertise in apparel production and the ability to support the made-to-measure approach that is central to Nabee.

When I began developing Nabee, I took the time to explore manufacturing options in different parts of the world. I visited manufacturers across Ontario and Quebec, Canada, as well as three manufacturers in Peru and one in Guatemala. Through that process, I learned a lot about what different production environments can and can’t accommodate.

For Nabee’s current model, I found a production partner in China that was willing and able to work closely with me on the level of customization, small-batch production, and hands-on collaboration that I was looking for.

What about ethical production?

It's an important question, and one I want customers to ask. I do a virtual walkthrough during every production run. I've also looked into an independent, third-party factory audit, which would involve the factory sharing financial, employment, and regulatory documents for review, including information relevant to pay and working hours.

I haven't been able to afford that audit yet, so I don't want to imply that one has happened. During a consultation about the process, I was advised to first ask whether the factory would be willing to participate. I asked, and the factory agreed to welcome a third-party audit when I'm ready. A virtual walkthrough and a willingness to be audited aren't the same as an independent audit, but they're the steps I can honestly share today.

How the batches work

Rather than keeping every design available all the time, I open the website for one batch at a time, usually for a two- to three-week ordering window. Customers place their made-to-measure orders, and then I submit those orders together for production. I try to release a batch of designs every month or two. You can read more about the ordering and production timeline in What to Expect When You Order Made-to-Measure.

For example, one run might feature Mule Ear Denim, the next Uniform Cargos, and the next Draped Culotte Denim Pants. Each release gives me a chance to focus on a design while making it to the measurements customers actually choose.

Thanks for being here, asking questions, and helping shape what Nabee becomes.