Bespoke atelier with a fitting room

Private clients who want tailored, individually made clothes: brides and wedding parties, people buying formal and evening wear, and clients wanting regular wardrobe commissions.

Higher-value commissions, usually priced per garment, with deposits taken up front. Extra income can come from alterations and from repeat clients.

• Design and pattern cutting
• High-quality sewing and finishing
• Client service and consultations
• Managing a workroom and deadlines
• Basic bookkeeping and pricing

• Check the lease terms, business rates and whether the premises have the right planning use for your activity
• Public liability insurance, plus contents cover for fabrics and equipment; employer's liability insurance once you take on staff
• Fixed costs such as rent are a risk if commissions are uneven, so keep some cash in reserve
• The term 'haute couture' is legally protected in France, so check before using it in your branding
• Check whether you need to register for VAT as your turnover grows

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £12,000 to £40,000, depending on the premises, the fit-out of your fitting room and workroom, and the equipment and fabrics you need to buy before commissions start.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £3,000 to £12,000, depending on commission volume, pricing and whether you employ help. Rent is a fixed cost and commissions can be uneven, so keep some cash in reserve.

Check your lease terms, business rates and whether the premises have the right planning use. Also check public liability and contents insurance, employer's liability once you take on staff, VAT registration as turnover grows, and avoid 'haute couture' in branding.