Start an online plus size clothing boutique

Women and men who struggle to find well-fitting, stylish clothes in standard stores, including those wanting workwear, casual wear or occasion outfits.

You buy stock at wholesale prices and sell at retail, earning the margin on each item. Focusing on one style or niche helps you stand out.

• Good eye for fit and style
• Social media and photography basics
• Inventory and order tracking
• Friendly customer service

• Check your state's rules on a seller's permit or resale certificate and on collecting sales tax on online orders
• Returns are common with clothing, so set a clear returns policy and budget for them
• Unsold stock ties up cash, so start with small orders
• Check wholesale suppliers' minimum orders and that they have reliable sizing
• If you work from home, check HOA or lease rules about storing stock

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how much stock you buy, your website setup and photography. Starting with small orders helps limit the cash tied up in unsold stock.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $500 to $5,000, depending on your range, how much traffic you attract and how many hours you put in. Estimates start from about 10 hours a week, and revenue is not the same as profit.

Check your state's rules on a seller's permit or resale certificate and on collecting sales tax on online orders. Also set a clear returns policy, check wholesalers' minimum orders and sizing, and review HOA or lease rules if you store stock at home.