14 Business Ideas For Fashionista [2024]
Are you passionate about fashion and dreaming of turning your style savvy into a thriving business in 2024? This article explores potential business ideas tailored for fashionistas like you, offering creative ways to blend your love for fashion with entrepreneurial aspirations.
From launching your own boutique to creating a fashion blog, the possibilities are endless. You could even explore niche markets like sustainable fashion or personalized styling services. Each idea is designed to inspire and guide you in starting a venture that resonates with your unique flair.
Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or looking to expand your current fashion endeavor, these suggestions could be your gateway to success. Dive into this guide to discover the paths you could take to make your fashion dreams a reality.
For each business idea, we'll show you real-world examples of other fashionista businesses to help you see what it takes.
Here's the full list:
1. Start a dropshipping business ($414K/month)
Starting a dropshipping business could be a seamless venture for a fashionista. By selling trendy apparel and accessories without holding any inventory, you could save on startup costs and focus exclusively on curating stylish collections for your audience. With platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce, setting up an online store is easier than ever, where you could list products from reliable suppliers and dedicate your time to what you love most — fashion and customer engagement.
Why start a dropshipping business?
- Avoid the need for inventory, letting you focus on fashion trends and customer engagement.
- Minimal startup costs make it easy to get started and test your niche.
- Flexibility to offer a wide range of fashion items without upfront investment.
For more on how to get started, check out the success stories from dropshipping entrepreneurs.
How much you can make: $6,000 — $3,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $8,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 10 hours/week
Entrepreneur Kamil Sattar has developed multiple six-figure drop shipping businesses, and his company, e-commerce mentoring, specializes in helping others create their own successful companies, with favorite platforms including using Shopify and apps such as Loox reviews and SMSBump.
2. Start a subscription box business ($97.9K/month)
Starting a subscription box business could be the perfect opportunity for a fashionista to blend passion with profitability. By curating a box of exclusive, trendy items each month, you could provide your customers with a unique fashion experience that keeps them eagerly anticipating their next delivery. This business model not only allows for a steady income stream but also the chance to grow a loyal customer base who value your fashion expertise. For more insights, check out these success stories.
Why starting a subscription box business?
- Steady, predictable income: Monthly subscriptions ensure regular revenue streams, making financial planning easier.
- Showcase your creativity: Curating a unique selection of fashion items lets you express your style and expand your brand.
- Build a loyal customer base: Providing exclusive products fosters customer loyalty and can lead to long-term business growth.
How much you can make: $400 — $400,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $210 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Vowed Box Co. is a line of curated, quirky gift boxes with non-traditional brides in mind, offering four different products that have helped the business become profitable most months since its launch in 2018, with a monthly income of roughly $600.
3. Start an ecommerce reselling business ($83.3K/month)
For fashionistas looking to supplement their income or embark on a side venture, starting an ecommerce reselling business is an ideal choice. By leveraging your eye for trends and style, you could curate a collection of highly sought-after fashion items, whether it's vintage finds, boutique brands, or the latest must-haves, and resell them online. This approach allows you to dive into the fashion industry without the high production costs, as you’ll be sourcing existing products. Additionally, beginning with a social media-based reseller business simplifies initial operations, allowing you to build a customer base before scaling up to a full-fledged ecommerce site.
To dive deeper into the world of ecommerce reselling, check out the detailed journey of successful resellers on Starter Story.
Why consider starting an ecommerce reselling business?
- It offers low startup costs, as you won't need to invest in product manufacturing.
- You can capitalize on your fashion sense by curating and selling trending items.
- A social media-based approach initially allows for flexibility and minimal upfront investments.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $150,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,999 (?)
How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)
Empyre Off-Road, an e-commerce business founded by Greg Shuey which sells aftermarket parts for Toyota Tacomas, Tundras, and 4Runners, generated approximately $100,000 a month in revenue and was able to expand its product offering, focusing on content marketing, email marketing campaigns, and organic social media to attract and retain customers.
4. Print on demand business ($411K/month)
Starting a print-on-demand business would make perfect sense for a fashionista looking to supplement income, make extra money, or even establish a side business. With your keen eye for style and trends, you could design customized apparel, home goods, phone cases, and other merchandise that appeal to a global audience. Leveraging platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy as virtual storefronts allows you to focus on your passion for design while benefiting from dropshipping production and fulfillment services, eliminating the need for upfront inventory costs.
Additionally, the minimal startup costs and the flexibility to run the business from home make it a scalable venture that fits seamlessly with fashionable endeavors. By tapping into your creativity, you have the potential to monetize your unique designs and build a business at your own pace. For more in-depth information on the profitability of print-on-demand businesses, you might find it useful to explore further here.
Why start a print-on-demand business?
- No upfront inventory costs. You could create and sell your designs without investing in large quantities of stock.
- Flexibility to work from home. This business model allows you to maintain your lifestyle while earning extra income.
- Expanding your brand globally. Using online marketplaces, you could reach a wide audience and establish a personal brand known for its unique style.
How much you can make: $200 — $3,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Founder Roy Kirchner shares how he started an eCommerce business specializing in 3D printing with an initial investment of $65,000, which now averages monthly gross sales of $330,000 and has partnered with international manufacturers and local businesses while offering technical support and education.
5. Start a social media automation business ($139K/month)
Imagine managing multiple social media accounts effortlessly while driving engagement and growth. That’s the essence of a social media automation business. For a fashionista, this could mean using your expert eye to create impeccable content calendars, schedule posts, and engage meaningfully with audiences—all while maintaining a keen sense of the latest trends. Your clients—from small businesses to influencers—pay you to save them time and enhance their social media presence.
With the burgeoning need for consistent and strategic social media engagement, demand for automation services is significant. Developing or integrating software solutions, staying updated on social media trends, and building client relationships could be both a lucrative and fulfilling endeavor for those with a knack for technology and marketing. Learn more about the possibilities with a social media automation business at Starter Story.
Why consider a social media automation business as a fashionista?
- You can merge your love for fashion and technology, streamlining social media tasks for fashion brands and influencers.
- It’s a way to leverage your understanding of visual aesthetics to help businesses maintain an engaging online presence.
- Automation tools can free up your time, letting you focus on creative endeavors while earning a steady income.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $400,000/month
How long does it take to build: 50 days (?)
MeetEdgar, a bootstrapped social media automation tool founded in 2014 by Laura Roeder, has grown to $4 million in annual recurring revenue and more than 5,000 customers, with a team size of two dozen, achieved through content marketing, social media marketing, and organic search.
6. Start a YouTube channel ($72.1K/month)
Have a knack for creating compelling video content? Starting a YouTube channel might be your next big move. As a fashionista, you could utilize this platform to share your unique style tips, fashion hauls, and even collaborate with brands, opening doors for ad revenue, sponsorships, and merchandise sales. For a deeper dive into how to succeed, check out these YouTube success stories on Starter Story.
A YouTube channel offers you the opportunity to share your expertise, passions, or hobbies while potentially earning revenue through ads, sponsorships, and merchandise. Whether it's through educational content, vlogs, or entertainment, a YouTube channel is a versatile platform where creativity meets opportunity. Despite the hard work involved, the payoff can be significant, offering both financial reward and the flexibility to share your unique voice.
Why starting a YouTube channel?
- You could turn your passion for fashion into a tangible income stream.
- You’ll engage with a global audience, broadening your influence and impact.
- You can diversify your income through multiple revenue streams like ads, sponsorships, and merchandise.
Explore more ways to succeed with your YouTube channel at /ideas/youtube-channel-776c3594-d38e-4630-89ff-b9c43217243b/success-stories.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $333,333/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,250 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
This case study follows the journey of a young entrepreneur from Nigeria who started a profitable blog generating a monthly revenue of $1,500+ through sales of advertising space, sponsored posts, and information products, and shares his strategies for success including a Twitter growth challenge and guest post pitches.
7. Start an affiliate marketing business ($77.5K/month)
Affiliate marketing is an excellent way to supplement your income, especially if you have a passion for fashion. As a fashionista, you could partner with brands and promote their products through your social media channels, blog, or YouTube channel, earning commissions on every sale made through your recommendations. Not only does this offer the potential for passive income, but it also allows you to share your favorite fashion finds and style tips with your audience.
To get started, you’ll need to identify the right products and brands that align with your personal style and resonate with your followers. For example, you might consider partnering with an eCommerce store or a manufacturer to market their products for a commission. Look into our tips and insights on how to finance an affiliate marketing business to ensure a profitable start.
Why start an affiliate marketing business?
- It provides an opportunity to earn passive income by leveraging your existing social media presence and influence.
- You can share exclusive deals and products with your audience, enhancing your credibility and rapport.
- It's a low-cost, low-risk venture that can be managed alongside your primary job or other business projects.
How much you can make: $500 — $773,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $700 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
This case study explores how Spencer Mecham founded Buildapreneur, an affiliate marketing business, and has made over half a million dollars in profit with no employees, relying solely on content marketing through platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.
8. Start a niche blog ($31.5K/month)
Starting a niche blog can be the perfect side hustle or even a full-time business for a fashionista. By focusing on a specific aspect of fashion, such as sustainable fashion, vintage finds, or high-street styles, you could attract a dedicated and passionate audience eager to consume your content. From monetizing through affiliate links and collaborations with brands to expanding onto other platforms like YouTube, blogging offers various income streams.
Why start a niche blog?
- You get to share your fashion expertise and passion with a targeted, engaged audience.
- There are numerous ways to monetize your content, from affiliate marketing to brand partnerships.
- It offers flexibility and scalability, allowing you to grow your blog at your own pace.
For more insights and tips on starting a successful niche blog, check out our starter story page.
How much you can make: $100 — $650,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $650 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Starter Story grew to 1.4 million monthly visitors and millions in annual revenue by sharing the stories of entrepreneurs. Pat breaks down the early days and how he grew the business into something that changed his life.
9. Start a niche website ($107K/month)
A niche website is an excellent way for a fashionista to tap into their passion while generating additional income. By focusing on a specialized fashion topic—whether it's sustainable fashion, vintage clothing, or even high-end accessories—you could create compelling content that draws in a dedicated audience. Over time, this focus can lead to monetization opportunities through affiliate marketing, ad placements, or even selling your own digital products.
Why start a niche website?
- You could easily turn your fashion expertise into consistent income streams through strategic content monetization.
- Building a niche website allows you to express your unique style and voice, creating a personal brand that stands out.
- Earning passive income becomes possible as you attract dedicated followers who visit for your specialized content.
For more detailed steps and real-life success stories, check out this page on niche website success stories.
How much you can make: $400 — $250,000/month
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
DPW (Digital Procurement World) is a fast-growing conference and community in procurement that has more than tripled in revenue since launching in 2019, capping out the year at €1.8 million, with 95% of their growth coming from inbound traffic leveraging LinkedIn and applying social selling techniques.
10. Start an online course sales business ($85K/month)
Starting an online course sales business would make perfect sense for a fashionista with a wealth of industry knowledge and a knack for teaching. You could easily create courses on various topics like personal styling, fashion design, or even how to build a successful fashion blog. This venture allows you to turn your passion and expertise into a source of passive income while offering value to those eager to learn more about the fashion world.
Given the e-learning market's rapid growth, expected to be worth over $645 billion in the next few years, there is a huge opportunity for you to reach a broad audience with your unique insights and skills. By leveraging platforms like Teachable or Udemy, you could kickstart your journey in the world of online course sales. For more about how to get started, you could check out some success stories here.
Why consider starting an online course sales business?
- You could generate passive income by selling courses you only need to create once.
- Your industry expertise is valuable and marketable; you just need to share it effectively.
- Teaching others about fashion not only boosts your income but also enhances your reputation as an expert.
How much you can make: $100 — $300,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
A multipreneur shares how she built a successful print on demand side hustle, generating $120,000 per year through multiple brands spread over various platforms.
11. Start a podcast ($97.9K/month)
Starting a podcast is an excellent opportunity for a fashionista to build a personal brand, share industry knowledge, and connect with a larger audience. By discussing trends, interviewing industry experts, and offering style tips, you could position yourself as a go-to resource for fashion enthusiasts. Additionally, a podcast could supplement your income through sponsorships, advertisements, and listener donations, making it both a passion project and a viable business venture. For more details, check out some success stories from podcasts.
Why should you start a podcast?
- You could establish yourself as a fashion authority by sharing insights and knowledge within your niche.
- Through engaging content, you could attract sponsorships and advertiser partnerships, providing multiple income streams.
- Podcasts offer a flexible format that allows you to connect with your audience in a more intimate and impactful way.
How much you can make: $400 — $1,020,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 2 hours/week
A successful podcast production company that grew from one client making $15/hour to a team of 10 contractors producing over 30 shows per week with revenue of over $10k/mo, primarily through referrals and with a focus on providing high personal touch and being picky about working only with clients who are a good fit.
12. Start a stock photography business ($14.6K/month)
Starting a stock photography business makes perfect sense for a fashionista looking to supplement their income or even establish a full-fledged side hustle. With an eye for detail and a flair for aesthetics, you could create high-quality, fashion-oriented stock photos that appeal to brands and businesses for their marketing efforts. Plus, the passive income potential allows you to focus on your passion while building a portfolio and reputation in the industry.
Why start a stock photography business?
- Monetize your Creative Talent: Transform your fashion photography skills into a revenue stream by licensing images for a variety of uses.
- Passive Income Potential: Earn money long after you've uploaded your photos, allowing you to focus on new projects without constantly chasing gigs.
- Flexibility and Scalability: You have the flexibility to expand your portfolio and choose your niche, be it street fashion, haute couture, or accessory photography.
Explore more about starting a stock photography business.
How much you can make: $1,200 — $45,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Pro Photo Studio founder Tsour Lee Adato shares how she turned a $5k investment into a business that services over 500 clients annually and makes approximately $350k per year with plans to expand and become a 7-figure business while offering advice to fellow entrepreneurs to always be innovating, learning and growing, and not to undervalue themselves.
13. Create a mobile app ($70.3K/month)
Starting a mobile app could be an intriguing side business for a fashionista looking to supplement their income or even build a new venture. Imagine developing an app that offers user-friendly fashion tips, outfit coordination, or even personal styling services. With the rapid growth of mobile app usage, you could cater to fashion enthusiasts globally and monetize through premium features and in-app purchases.
To begin, you would need a clear vision and perhaps some basic coding knowledge, or you could hire a developer to bring your idea to life. Crafting a seamless user experience and marketing your app effectively are key components for its success. For those committed to long-term development, success stories can be found that highlight how mobile apps have become profitable ventures.
Why start a mobile app?
- Mobile apps are integral to everyday life, offering continuous user engagement.
- You could reach a global audience, expanding your influence beyond physical stores or limited geography.
- Monetizing through ads, in-app purchases, and premium features offers multiple revenue streams.
For more insights on creating successful mobile apps, you might find this helpful: Mobile App Success Stories.
How much you can make: $1 — $500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
BACH, an app that plans and books bachelorette parties, has grown from $0 to >$1M net revenue run rate in less than 6 months, gained over 100,000 users in their first 60 days, and has over 40,000 parties using the app this month.
14. Start a health and wellness app ($108K/month)
Starting a health and wellness app is an excellent venture for a fashionista looking to expand their entrepreneurial horizons. By developing an app that offers personalized fitness routines, nutrition plans, and mental well-being exercises, you could blend your passion for aesthetics with a growing demand for health-focused digital solutions. Think of it as creating a stylish, user-friendly platform that could help your followers achieve their wellness goals with your distinctive touch.
Launching this app involves market research, collaborating with health experts, app development, and strategic marketing, but the potential rewards are immense. Not only could you make a meaningful impact on people's lives, but you could also capitalize on a lucrative and expanding market. If you're excited by the intersection of fashion, health, and technology, this might be the perfect business idea for you. Want to learn more about the benefits and startup costs? Click here.
Why start a health and wellness app?
- You could tap into a rapidly growing market and diversify your income streams.
- Offering a personalized, stylish app enhances your brand's value and appeal.
- Combining fashion with wellness creates a unique niche, setting you apart from the competition.
How much you can make: $600 — $300,000/month
How long does it take to build: 200 days (?)
Founder and CEO of SelfDecode, Joe Cohen, explains how his company helps people discover personalized diet, supplement, and lifestyle recommendations based on DNA and lab tests; generating about $2.7 million in revenue over the past year and raising $8 million in a crowdfunding campaign, SelfDecode provides personalized health recommendations prioritized on unique genetic variants, marking the future of healthcare.
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Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
