Folk costume and regional dress shop

Dance troupes, cultural and heritage associations, festival participants, schools, families celebrating traditions, and collectors.

Retail sales, alteration and fitting fees, short-term rentals for performances, and bulk orders from groups before festival season.

• Retail and customer service
• Basic sewing or alterations (or a partner who has them)
• Stock buying and inventory management

• Check with your city or county for a business license, zoning and signage rules
• Register with your state for sales tax and check resale certificate rules
• General liability insurance and coverage for stock; check lease terms before signing
• Demand can be seasonal and tied to festival dates, so plan your cash flow
• Check customs, duties and textile labeling rules for imported garments, and describe items honestly

Startup costs are typically around $20,000 to $80,000, depending on your location, stock levels and shop fit-out. Check lease terms before signing, since rent is likely to be one of your biggest ongoing costs.

Monthly revenue is typically around $5,000 to $20,000, depending on your stock, location and services such as alterations or rentals. Demand can be seasonal and tied to festival dates, so plan your cash flow.

Check with your city or county for a business license, zoning and signage rules. Register with your state for sales tax and check resale certificate rules. Also check general liability and stock insurance, and customs and labeling rules for imported garments.