If you’re looking to build a business or try out a new professional endeavor, an online boutique is a great way to go. Not only are there a lot of opportunities to be creative on the internet and to grow on your own terms, but the startup costs are low, which means it’s an accessible option for all types of entrepreneurs.

PixieLane believes that fun and exciting professional opportunities should be available to everyone. That’s why we’re sharing what we’ve learned about growing businesses and information and tips on the best ways for new retailers to get started.

Why Are Startup Costs So Low for Online Boutiques? 

Every business has some startup costs that need to be taken into account, but they’re significantly smaller for online clothing boutiques than many other types of new companies.

That’s because one of the main costs of running a business is the brick-and-mortar location. And it’s more than just the cost of the rent. When you run an in-person boutique or department store, you’ll need to cover utilities for the business, decorations and display cases for the windows and sales, and employees to keep your company running right on the days you can’t be there. This gets even more expensive with high-end destinations like New York, London, or Los Angeles. 

You’ll also have a wide selection of great options for online marketing that have low costs, like social media and SEO. This will help you build your brand without printing costs, traditional advertising, or other expenses that come along with new businesses.

Which Online Boutique Start-Ups Are Totally Crushing It? 

When you’re looking to start your online business, it can be helpful to look at examples of trendy online boutiques that are doing it right. This can provide inspiration and motivation to try out something new and navigate challenges you face along the way.

Here are some of the online boutiques that are doing the job right:

5. Frankie’s Bikinis

Frankie’s Bikinis takes custom, designer clothing and makes it accessible to every summer-loving babe on the search for a cute suit. It’s more than just a great location to find bold and really unique swimsuits; it’s a lifestyle brand that encourages adventure vibes and wanderlust while still providing high-quality, long-lasting pieces.

The company has expanded beyond its wide catalog of swimwear for young women to include clothing like dresses, sweaters, and loungewear. It also carries shoes, beauty products, and great collections and crossovers with designers and stylists. 

4. Nasty Gal

Nasty Gal has a fun and versatile collection of affordable clothing, which means you’re sure to find something for any occasion, and it won’t break the bank. It all started more than ten years ago in a small apartment, and a love for vintage vibes and quick wit with online sales have led to a successful and exciting company that continues to grow bigger every day.

You can find great collections for festivals, different seasons, fun collaborations, and parties and events. They use sustainable products and carry cute dresses, tops and bottoms, different styles of shoes, and lots of fun accessories like handbags and jewelry.

3. Beardbrand

Great online boutiques aren’t just for women’s products. Beardbrand is a company bringing high-quality and personal beard staples to men across the country. Not only do they provide products that will meet your facial hair needs through the use of quizzes and questionnaires, but they strive to create a community that supports men on their facial hair journey.

Beardbrand grew as an online shopping destination for men with blogging and tutorials for proper beard care for different styles. Now, they carry fragrances, product bundles, grooming kits, and even apparel and guides.

2. Frank Body

You deserve skin care products that you can trust, and Frank Body agrees. They carry products that follow four essential principles, including body positivity, community and empowerment, diversity and inclusion, and sustainability. The products that make you feel good physically and emotionally are good for the planet and your community as well.

 They began their company’s journey by removing all of the plastic from their online orders. They also offset their carbon footprint by purchasing and protecting lands in Australia. They partnered with companies dedicated to sustainability with the use of sustainable materials, renewable energy, and more.

1. PixieLane

And, of course, if you’re on the search for creative and trendy clothing that the whole family is sure to love, then PixieLane has you covered. We carry a wide range of great clothing options for kids of every age—and parents as well!

PixieLane is your one-stop-shop for your whole family with the latest trends: from graphic tees to skirts, tanks, and new arrivals coming in all the time. 

For our Mommy and Me collection, we have women's clothing that matches your little one's outfits so the whole family can share in on the fun.  

We’re a company designed by working moms for working moms, and we believe finding clothing for your kids should be easy. We also offer an easy-to-join consultant program for entrepreneurs looking to begin their new businesses while still maintaining a work-life balance.

A mom often wears many hats; being a consultant helps you collaborate with your favorite fashion brands while passing on unique pieces to your whole community: all while watching your kids. 

What's Your Favorite Online Boutique

When you build an online boutique or business, you have a lot of opportunities to do things on your own terms. The startup costs are lower than with traditional businesses, which means you can be creative in marketing, product development, and your label's design.

Building a business is more accessible than ever, no matter your experience or access to resources. Many of the indie house labels we love are now huge synonymous with the most elite trendy fashion purchases. 

If you’re on the hunt for a great opportunity to build or grow a business of your own, PixieLane makes it easy. We give you the tools you need to begin creating your online boutique business, so you can bring in more income, support your family, and maintain a great balance of work and family life with ease. Find out why our consultant program is a great fit for your needs today.

Sources:

When Community Becomes Your Competitive Advantage | Harvard Business Review

Business Startup Costs: It's in the Details | Investopedia

14 Famous Businesses That Launched With Less Than $10,000 | Entrepreneur