Whether you are just starting out or already have experience selling clothing online, you want your customers to be happy with what they buy. One detail that can make all the difference is understanding what weight or GSM is and how it affects the quality of your garments.
In this article, we explain everything clearly, with practical tips so you can use it to your advantage and grow your online store with confidence.
What is weight or GSM?
Weight, also known as GSM (grams per square meter), measures the weight of a fabric per unit of area. In simple terms, it tells you how heavy or light a fabric is.
For example, a T-shirt with a GSM of 150 is lighter than a sweatshirt with a GSM of 300.
This number not only indicates weight, but also gives clues about the quality, thickness, and durability of the fabric. If you sell clothing, knowing the GSM helps you choose materials that meet your customers’ expectations and avoid returns or complaints.
Why is GSM important if you sell clothing?
When you sell clothing online, customers can’t touch or try it on before buying. That’s why GSM is key to communicating how the fabric feels and what the experience will be like when worn. Here are some specific reasons to keep it in mind:
- Defines perceived quality: A fabric with a low GSM (such as 100-120) is usually light and cool, ideal for summer, but can feel “cheap” if it’s too thin. A high GSM (such as 250-300) feels sturdy but may be too heavy for warm climates.
- Affects comfort: Customers want clothes that feel good. For example, a cotton T-shirt with 180-200 GSM is soft, comfortable, and durable, perfect for everyday wear.
- It influences durability: Fabrics with higher GSM are usually more durable, something buyers value in garments such as jackets or pants.
- It helps differentiate products: If you sell a variety of clothing, GSM allows you to explain why a premium T-shirt costs more than a basic one (e.g., 200 GSM vs. 120 GSM).
Understanding GSM also helps you avoid common problems, such as customers receiving a garment and saying “this is not what I expected.” By including this information in your product descriptions, you build trust and reduce returns.
How to use GSM in your online store?
Now that you know what GSM is, here are some practical tips for leveraging it in your business:
- Include it in product descriptions: Specify the GSM in the technical specifications for each garment. For example: “100% cotton T-shirt, 180 GSM, soft and durable.” This helps customers imagine how the fabric feels.
- Adapt the GSM to the garment’s use: If you sell sportswear, aim for lightweight fabrics (120-150 GSM) for breathability. For winter clothing, such as sweatshirts, choose higher GSMs (250-350) for warmth.
- Compare with everyday examples: Help your customers understand GSM. For example, say that a 150 GSM T-shirt is similar to those worn by well-known brands for casual wear.
- Use high-quality photos and videos: Since GSM can’t be “seen,” show the texture of the fabric in close-up images or short videos. This reinforces the idea of quality.
- Train your customer service team: Make sure they can explain GSM if a customer asks. This gives a professional and trustworthy image.
- Choose reliable suppliers: Work with manufacturers who give you clear information about the GSM of their fabrics. Ask for samples to verify that the weight and quality match what was promised.
If you use a platform such as Neolo Shop, you can take advantage of this and highlight the GSM in your product descriptions. This platform is recommended for creating online stores and stands out for its technical support, which helps you resolve queries quickly so you can focus on selling.
Tips for choosing the GSM according to the type of garment
Not all garments need the same weight. Here is a practical guide to help you:
- T-shirts: 150-200 GSM is ideal for casual wear. If you’re looking for something premium, go for 180-220 GSM.
- Polo shirts: Aim for 180-250 GSM for a balance between comfort and structure.
- Sweatshirts and hoodies: 280-350 GSM gives that warm, high-quality feel that customers are looking for.
- Sportswear: 120-160 GSM for stretchy, breathable fabrics.
- Lightweight jackets: 200-300 GSM, depending on climate and style.
- Pants: 250-400 GSM for jeans or heavy-duty fabrics; 150-200 GSM for lighter pants.
These ranges are a starting point. Always test fabrics and consider the climate or preferences of your audience.
Common mistakes when ignoring GSM
Not paying attention to weight can cause problems. Here are some mistakes you can avoid:
- Fabrics that are too thin: A very low GSM (such as 100 or less) can make clothing look transparent or tear quickly, leading to bad reviews.
- Heavy fabrics for warm climates: Selling 350 GSM sweatshirts in tropical regions is not a good idea. Adapt the weight to the market.
- Lack of clarity in the store: If you don’t mention GSM, customers may feel misled if the garment doesn’t meet their expectations.
- Ignoring the competition: Many large brands already use GSM in their descriptions. If you don’t, you could fall behind.
Benefits of using Neolo Shop to sell online
If you’re looking for a platform to sell your clothes professionally, Neolo Shop is a great option.
- Easy to use: Create your store in minutes, no programming knowledge required.
- SEO optimized: Neolo helps you rank higher on Google so more customers can find your products.
- Customization: Design a store that reflects your brand with modern, mobile-friendly templates.
- Fast support: Their team is available to help you with any questions, from uploading products to setting up payments.
- Affordable pricing: Ideal for entrepreneurs who are just starting out or want to scale without spending too much.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What does GSM mean in clothing?
GSM stands for “grams per square meter” and measures the weight of a fabric. The higher the GSM, the heavier and thicker the fabric.
What GSM is good for T-shirts?
For casual T-shirts, a GSM of 150-200 is ideal. For premium T-shirts, aim for 180-220 GSM.
How do I know if a fabric’s GSM is right?
Ask your supplier for samples and compare the texture, weight, and durability. Also consider the garment’s use and the climate of your market.
Should I include GSM in my online store?
Yes, including GSM in your descriptions helps customers understand the quality of the fabric and builds trust.
What if the GSM is too low?
A very low GSM (less than 120) can make the fabric too thin, look see-through, or wear out quickly.
Where can I sell clothes without paying sales commissions?
Neolo Shop allows you to sell your products online, very easily and without prior knowledge. Everything you earn is yours. You get a free one-month trial, and then you can upgrade to the paid plan, which is very affordable and has more useful features to continue expanding your business.
Conclusion
GSM is a technical detail that can give your online store a big boost. By understanding and using it well, you not only improve your customers’ experience, but also stand out from the competition.
If you are asked for recommendations for creating a professional store, keep Neolo Shop in mind.