Online plus size clothing boutique

Women, men or non-binary shoppers in larger sizes who find little choice in regular shops, including those in smaller towns far from specialist stores.

You buy stock at wholesale prices and sell at retail, usually about double the cost. Extra income can come from accessories, gift cards and repeat customers.

• An eye for fit and style
• Social media and photos
• Stock and order tracking
• Friendly, body-positive customer service

• Register for GST/HST once revenue passes the small supplier threshold, and check provincial sales tax rules (PST/QST) where you sell
• Returns on clothing can be high, so set a clear returns policy and use detailed size charts
• Unsold stock ties up cash, so start small and reorder what sells
• Check customs duties and shipping costs if you import stock
• Check whether you need a home-based business licence from your municipality for storing stock at home
• Commercial general liability insurance is worth checking

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how much stock you buy, how you set up your website and what shipping supplies you need. Starting small and reordering what sells can help manage cash.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $5,000, depending on your niche, how many orders you win through your website and social media, and how much stock you carry. These are estimates, and revenue is not profit.

Check GST/HST registration once revenue passes the small supplier threshold, and provincial sales tax rules (PST/QST) where you sell. Check customs duties if you import stock, whether you need a home-based business licence for storing stock, and commercial general liability insurance.