How to Start a Clothing Line With No Money
Starting a clothing line with no money is difficult, but not impossible. Have sewing skills under your belt and a keen eye for quality in unlikely places? Think outside of the box and rework vintage clothing you find at thrift stores and flea markets to create a line of clothing that is unique and has history. Some money will have to be invested into starting the line, but it doesn't have to be much. It helps to have an extensive background in sewing and fashion, as you want to create a quality product regardless of your start-up funds.
Instructions
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Know your fashion. Before starting a clothing line, especially one with no money, you need to know fashion inside and out. A lot of people take a foray into fashion because it seems like a fun, exciting world and end up in major debt with nothing to show for it. Be familiar with sewing, fabrics, patterns, and fashion history before you create your collection.
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Shop vintage. Vintage clothing is a huge market, and can be purchased for very little money at thrift stores and charity shops. When traveling for personal or business reasons, visit thrift stores and start to collect an archive of apparel. You can revamp these pieces and sell them.
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Rework vintage clothing. To rework vintage clothing, you'll need to have some design skills, but ample sewing skills. Many lines originated as labels that rework vintage clothing and it has proven to be a successful plan. Let your creativity guide you and do everything you want to alter vintage clothing. One of the most popular and impressive techniques is to take a garment and let it serve another purpose such as taking a pair of pants and turning them into sleeves for a blouse.
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Focus on quality. Even though you're buying vintage doesn't mean you have to skimp on quality. Clothes were made better decades ago, so look for natural fabrics such as cotton, silk and wool, and look for weight - a heavier garment is usually good quality.
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Network your brand. Network your brand from day one, and have at least a small collection (anywhere from 6-12 pieces) to show buyers. While networking can be done online, many buyers will require seeing garments in person before making decisions. Always use delivery confirmation and insure your garments if mailing them.
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Tips & Warnings
The charm of reworking vintage clothing is no two items are never the same. If a buyer is serious about purchasing this line for their boutique, they know this and understand the type of client looking to purchase these pieces. Do not worry if shirts and dresses are not identical; that's your niche.
