Turkey has been a major player in the international textile and apparel business for many years. Its geographic location, trained workforce, and quality production capacities make it an excellent destination for foreign clothing wholesalers to source. But timing is everything when it comes to sourcing from Turkey. Seasonal trends and production cycles can be used to plan ahead and remain in front of market needs by buyers.
Spring/Summer Season: Quick Fashion and Lightweight Fabrics
Procurement for the spring and summer season typically begins between October and December. During this period, foreign buyers place orders for lightweight fabrics such as cotton, linen, viscose, and blends. Leading product categories are:
T-shirts and tank tops
Shorts and skirts
Summer dresses
Lightweight shirts and blouses
Activewear and beachwear
Turkish producers take around 60 to 90 days for manufacturing depending on the order size and intricacy. It leaves room for adjustments and ensures timely shipment before the start of the winter season in March or April.
Fall/Winter Season: Knitwear, Outerwear, and Layers
The fall and winter buying season typically begins between April and June. This is when the wholesalers focus on heavier, warmer materials such as wool, fleece, denim, and knits. Key product categories are:
Sweaters and cardigans
Coats and jackets
Long-sleeved shirts and blouses
Thermal wear and loungewear
Jeans and trousers
Since production of these products can be more material- and labor-intensive, lead times may be slightly longer. Orders should be placed by July or August to receive deliveries in advance of fall retail rollouts.
Pro Tips for Sourcing from Turkey
Build long-term business relationships with stable Turkish suppliers to get priority during peak season.
Visit trade shows like Istanbul Fashion Connection (IFCO) and Texhibition to discover new suppliers.
Pre-order fabric samples to gauge quality and avoid surprises later in production.
Stay abreast of international logistics trends to adjust your timeline for shipping and customs.
Timing is everything in the fashion business. By combining your purchasing strategy with Turkey’s production cycles and seasonal trends, you can receive quality apparel at competitive prices—delivered exactly when you need it. Whether preparing for sun-filled summer lines or cozy winter collections, Turkey has a stable and trend-sensitive solution for wholesale buyers worldwide
