How to Start a Small Clothing Business

Apparel manufacturing is a lucrative business, but like most small businesses, you need a solid business plan and some business know-how in order to succeed. This article will guide you through some of the decisions you must make when starting a small clothing business.

Things You'll Need

• Business plan
• Suppliers
• Distributors

Instructions

1. Write a business plan. You need a business plan to help guide you through your first year or two of any business. A business plan is especially important if you are planning to take out a business loan.

2. Find suppliers. You will need fabric for your clothing and anything else that goes into production; thread, needles, buttons, zippers and decorations. In order to buy wholesale, you will need a business license and tax ID number. You need a supplier that can supply the right amount or small amounts if you have limited production or large amount for a bigger operation.

3. Find the production team. Will you be making all of the clothing yourself or do you need assistance? If you are going to have employees, be sure to consult your state's employment law.

4. Plan your potential distribution line. Unless you plan on selling all your clothing yourself, you will need distributors. Whether you are approaching small boutiques or discount stores, you need to know that there is someway for your clothing to reach their market.

5. Know your market. In order to be successful, you must meet the needs of your market. Talking to people who are your key purchasers or with the stores who will be selling your clothing is a good way to get information about what your market wants/needs.

6. Create a sample product. You will need samples in order to get orders. Create a few pieces that personify your line.

7. Approach buying agents and other potential clients. You need to make sales calls and meet with buying agents in order to get sales.

Tips & Warnings

• You need to have enough money to support yourself for a year while your business takes off.

Resources

• Responsible clothing manufacturing information
• Fashion Group International website
• Apparel News website