Pricing Transparency
Understanding Pricing Transparency
Transparency
We live in a world of fast fashion, with clothing being made overseas and out of sight and garment workers being paid pennies to dollars to make clothing that falls apart quickly. So when a T-shirt costs $55 or a dress is $300, people quickly dismiss it as too much and don’t ask WHY their other clothes are much cheaper.
As a creative, it is important to be completely transparent about how and why our handmade clothing is priced as it is.
Our pricing reflects:
- Ethical labor — $45/hour for in-studio work (cutting, sewing, finishing, handwork)
- High-quality, low-waste materials — including upcycled, deadstock, and sustainable fabrics
- Studio overhead — including rent, machines, maintenance, and admin
- Time — custom pieces and small-batch garments take between 5–15+ hours to create
- Artistry — many designs incorporate original textile art by Tremain Smith
The Breakdown
To make Sarah Tremain’s pricing clearer, here is the breakdown of how our products get priced. Base labor costs are likely to change, especially as inflation continues to rise, but for now, everything made by hand in the studio is priced at $45 an hour. The formula used to price a piece is:
Final Price=[(Price of Materials)+(Price of labor)+(30-48% of overhead costs)]X3
The price gets tripled to reflect the pricing of what the products will be in storesandthere is a profit margin so Sarah Tremain can continue to grow and pay a living wage for any people working for the company.
We don’t believe in underpaying people or overcharging customers. We do believe in valuing creative labor, minimizing waste, and producing pieces that last.
Learning and Adapting
Given how things fluctuate in our world, we want to leave space to grow and change so we can stay true to the idea of creating something that makes this world better. That means that sometimes we have to adapt how we do things or pivot in a different direction than we thought we were going to go. Pricing is hard for any creative because we live in a society that is based at its core on capitalism, which unfortunately leads to the greed and extortion of others. Sarah Tremain does NOT want to become a company that starts off preaching change and intention to do good and then loses sight of those values once the money becomes tight. Please feel free to question our practices with the idea of helping us to do better, without undervaluing the work done.
Each purchase directly supports a circular studio model — one that includes garment rescue, client collaboration, and community-based mending work. If you ever have questions about how a piece is priced, please reach out.
What Is Pricing Transparency?
Pricing transparency refers to the clarity and openness with which businesses communicate their pricing structures. When companies provide detailed pricing information, customers can easily understand what they are paying for and why. This practice fosters trust, as consumers can feel confident in their purchasing decisions. Because of this transparency, businesses can also differentiate themselves in competitive markets, making it essential for both parties involved.
The Benefits of Pricing Transparency
Pricing transparency benefits consumers by allowing them to compare prices more effectively and make informed decisions. It empowers customers with information, helping them understand the value of a product or service. For businesses, being transparent about pricing can lead to increased customer loyalty and satisfaction. Therefore, implementing clear pricing practices is a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Challenges and Solutions
While pricing transparency has many benefits, some businesses may fear that revealing prices could lead to price wars or reduced profit margins. However, the solution lies in focusing on the value provided rather than just the price. Businesses should emphasize their unique selling propositions and the quality of their offerings. By doing so, they can maintain competitive pricing without compromising profitability.