What sizes should I offer for a startup clothing line?

Deciding which sizes to offer is one of the first major decisions for a startup clothing line. This choice impacts your production costs, target audience, and brand perception. Striking the right balance between practicality and inclusivity is key.

For a startup clothing¹ line, offering a size range from XS to XL is a standard approach, covering most customers. Depending on your market, consider extending to plus sizes or custom fits for greater inclusivity.

Let’s explore how size ranges, inclusivity, and profit margins can shape your clothing line’s success.

How much do I need to start a small clothing brand?

Starting a clothing brand requires thoughtful planning to manage costs effectively.

Starting a small clothing brand typically requires an initial investment of $10,000–$50,000, depending on production scale, marketing, and distribution. Lower budgets are achievable with small-batch production or print-on-demand models.

Textile design in progress

Breakdown of startup costs

1. Production costs

• Includes fabric, manufacturing, and sample creation.
• Cost per unit depends on order volume and quality.

2. Branding and marketing

• Logo design, website setup, and social media campaigns.
• Allocate $1,000–$5,000 for effective brand visibility.

3. Distribution and packaging

• Shipping costs and packaging design (e.g., custom boxes or tags).
• Budget for bulk shipping discounts or fulfillment services.

Cost-saving tips:

• Start with a limited product line.
• Use digital marketing instead of traditional advertising.
• Consider pre-orders to gauge demand before production.

Careful budgeting helps ensure your clothing line launches successfully without overspending.

What is a good profit margin for a small clothing business?

Profitability is the cornerstone of sustaining your clothing brand.

A good profit margin² for a small clothing business is 30–50%. High-quality products and efficient operations can help achieve higher margins, even with competitive pricing.

Maximizing profit margins

Key factors influencing profit:

1. Cost of goods sold (COGS): Minimize material and manufacturing costs.
2. Pricing strategy: Set prices that balance affordability and profitability.
3. Sales volume: Larger orders or repeat customers boost overall profits.

Tips to improve margins:

• Use sustainable materials to justify premium pricing.
• Optimize production by partnering with reliable manufacturers.
• Offer bundles or discounts to increase average order value.

Setting realistic margins ensures financial stability while allowing room for growth.

What is size inclusivity in the fashion industry?

Size inclusivity is more than just a trend—it’s a growing expectation among consumers.

Size inclusivity in fashion³ means offering a wide range of sizes, typically from XXS to 5X or beyond, to cater to diverse body types. It demonstrates commitment to accessibility and customer diversity.

Why size inclusivity matters

Benefits of size inclusivity:

• Increases market reach: Larger size ranges appeal to more customers.
• Boosts brand loyalty: Customers appreciate brands that prioritize inclusivity.
• Aligns with values: Reflects a commitment to body positivity and diversity.

Challenges of size inclusivity:

• Higher production costs due to additional patterns and materials.
• Complexity in inventory management with expanded size ranges.

Practical approach for startups:

• Start with a core range (XS–XL) and expand based on demand.
• Offer custom sizing or small-batch plus-size collections to test the market.

Embracing size inclusivity can position your brand as modern, ethical, and customer-focused.

How many items do you need to start a clothing line?

The size of your initial collection sets the tone for your brand’s identity.

To start a clothing line, aim for 10–15 items across a cohesive collection⁴. This allows you to showcase variety while keeping production manageable.

Minimalist clothing display

Planning your first collection

Factors to consider:

1. Market demand: Identify key items your audience needs (e.g., casual basics, occasion wear).
2. Product diversity: Offer a mix of tops, bottoms, and outerwear to maximize appeal.
3. Cost efficiency: Start small to reduce production risks.

Suggested starting collection:

• 5–7 tops (e.g., T-shirts, blouses).
• 3–5 bottoms (e.g., pants, skirts).
• 2–3 signature items (e.g., jackets, dresses).

Advantages of a small collection:

• Easier inventory management.
• Reduced upfront investment.
• Faster feedback on customer preferences.

Launching with a focused collection ensures your brand starts strong while minimizing risks.

What is the typical markup on clothing?

Markup plays a crucial role in determining your retail pricing and profitability.

The typical markup on clothing⁵ ranges from 50–100%, meaning the retail price is 1.5 to 2 times the cost of production. Higher markups are common for luxury brands or niche markets.

Understanding markup strategies

How markup is calculated:

• Retail price = Cost of production × Markup factor
  • Example: A dress costing $20 to produce might retail for $40–$60.

Factors influencing markup:

1. Brand positioning: Premium brands charge higher markups to reflect quality and exclusivity.
2. Market competition: Competitive pricing may require lower markups to attract customers.
3. Customer perception: A well-perceived value allows for higher margins.

Balancing markup with quality and market expectations ensures sustainable growth for your clothing line.

Conclusion

For a startup clothing line, offering sizes XS to XL with the potential for inclusivity expansion is a practical approach. Starting with a small, curated collection of 10–15 items and maintaining a profit margin of 30–50% ensures financial viability. By carefully planning production costs, pricing strategies, and size inclusivity, you can create a brand that appeals to modern, diverse audiences.