Online coat and jacket store

Shoppers across the UK who want weather protection and prefer to compare styles and prices from home.

You buy at wholesale and sell at retail, keeping the margin after postage, returns, payment fees and advertising. Seasonal sales peak in autumn and winter.

• Choosing stock that suits a niche
• Product photography and writing descriptions
• Handling orders, returns and customer questions

• Online sales come with consumer rights, including a cancellation period for distance sales, so check the rules and write a clear returns policy
• Returns on clothing can be high, so work out the cost before setting prices
• Unsold winter stock can tie up cash, so start small and buy in stages
• Check labelling and product safety rules, especially for children's clothing and anything sold as waterproof or flame resistant
• Register as a sole trader or limited company and keep an eye on the VAT threshold

Startup costs are typically around £1,500 to £8,000, depending on your niche, how much stock you buy and your website set-up. These are estimates, and starting small and buying in stages can help protect your cash.

Monthly revenue is typically around £500 to £5,000, depending on your niche, pricing and how well you attract customers. Estimates suggest at least 8 hours a week. Clothing returns can be high, so allow for them in your prices.

Check consumer rights for distance sales, including the cancellation period, and write a clear returns policy. Also check labelling and product safety rules, especially for children's clothing and anything sold as waterproof or flame resistant, and watch the VAT threshold.