Online womenswear boutique

Women buying for themselves or as gifts, usually found through Instagram, TikTok, search or email.

You buy stock at wholesale prices and sell at a mark-up. Extra income can come from accessories, bundles and repeat customers on an email list.

• Spotting trends and knowing your customer
• Basic photography and social media
• Stock control and organisation
• Customer service

• Online sellers must follow consumer rules on returns and refunds, so check the current guidance on distance selling
• Unsold stock and sizing returns can tie up cash, so start with small orders
• Check that products meet UK labelling and safety rules, and that you have the right to sell any branded items
• Register as a sole trader with HMRC and keep an eye on the VAT threshold
• Check your landlord, mortgage lender or insurance if you store stock at home

Startup costs are typically around £800 to £5,000, depending on your opening stock, website, photography and packaging. These are estimates. Starting with small orders can help, as unsold stock and sizing returns can tie up cash.

Monthly revenue is typically around £300 to £4,000, depending on your range, how well you reach your customer and how often they return. This is revenue, not profit, so allow for stock, postage, returns and advertising.

Check the current consumer guidance on distance selling, returns and refunds. Check products meet UK labelling and safety rules and that you can sell any branded items. Register as a sole trader with HMRC and watch the VAT threshold.