Pros/Cons of online clothing retail?

[SYLO_JOHNSON]

Hello everyone, I'm new to the forum and this is my first post. I'm brain storming with the idea of online clothing retail. I'm curious about the Pros/Cons in this field. Any insight from individuals who've ventured into this field would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

[milxam]

Hey I would like to hear advice about this topic also. I'm in the process of starting a clothing line and it has been a pain communicating with manufacturers.

[SYLO_JOHNSON]

Yes I also agree with that. Im interested on the retail side of the process, but Im also very open to the "up and coming" local designer that big names dont offer deals to. I have a few friends who are also into designing their own clothes (t-shirts, button-ups, denim, shoes etc) and I wear some of the things they come up with just because I like them. Even when wearing these "local designers" items around I get feedback like "oh where did you get that??" or "they need to sell that stuff in the mall". So once again if anyone who has ventured into the "clothing retail/design" field could offer some guidance and info on the pros/cons they've come across, and communicating with manufacturers would be helpful also.

Thanks

[EntrepreneurHub1]

I'm not a big fan of clothing retail in general anymore. In order to succeed in that industry in my mind you must have a great idea, or fill a specific niche. There is just so many options out there now days that it is saturated.

[SYLO_JOHNSON]

Very true, Im looking more and more into the retail scene, and like you say "filling a specifice niche" is a must. But what if you fullfill that niche from multiple angles and appeal to multiple types of clientel? Such as Macy's for example, but geared more towards a certain group of styles. I'm trying to appeal to a mass base of clients that can come to my 1 stop shop... Thoughts??

[The ENTREPRENEUR]

It's a good idea because it makes everything automated, but also a market that has extreme competition.

[SYLO_JOHNSON]

I think that would be the biggest challenge in this market. The fact that it changes constantly, kind of like computers and updated processors. Fashion is out almost as fast as it comes in, I think if you stay aggressive in the marketing strategy and continuing to update your available inventory you could definitely be a contender in a competitive market, regardless exactly which market it is.

[DangerousCurves]

It's true that it's very competitive, and virtually every demographic is specifically targeted and marketed to by some retailer. And with every new day comes a new line, or a new retailer with the desire to reach one of those clients. But that does not mean the industry can't be profitable, you can find success beyond your wildest dreams.. It just means you'll have to develop a very precise marketing plan to reach your key consumer. Niche market is the key with clothing. The one stop shop idea may seem like it will appeal to a larger audience, but generally what happens is by trying to please everyone, you'll please no one at all.

I've been in the bikini / swimwear retail business for 13 years. I went from sketches on scratch paper, to contracted manufacturing, to owning my own manufacturing facility. I'd be happy to give any info i can to help you in your venture..

Feel free to email me anytime..

Larry Garman
Dangerous Curves
Bikinis, Thongs, G-Strings, Micro Bikinis from Dangerous Curves
lgarman@dcswimwear.com

[SYLO_JOHNSON]

Larry thank you for the info. Very helpful, I was hoping someone who has been in this market would be able to give me some insight. I'll definitely will be emailing you. Thanks again.