Business ideas for plus size clothing and customization

[Kala101]

Hi all,

I have been planning a business lately and I have some ideas. I just need some feedback on how others feel.

I have been doing research on plus size fashion and how the market is underserved for 16+ sizes. I have thought of selling dresses in cotton, chiffon, jersey and embroidered fabric in ethnic prints and vibrant and pastel shades. I have started contacting some plus size boutiques already. The differentiating factor would be using quality fabrics at affordable prices ( 50?) in all plus sizes.

The second idea is online customization where women would enter their measurements and they can also make changes in length, sleeve length and type and neckline. Clothes will be adjusted to height. Here standard sizes (all up to plus) will be offered, something like eshakti and lurap. Gorgeous couture does this in the UK but their dresses are 100+ in price. Now, these websites only cater to US and Canada. The downsides would be that it will take 2 weeks to deliver the custom made dress and it would be more than high street prices (however still less than designer wear).

Suggestions, criticisms, feedback all are welcome. Also, I will do a test run where I will offer dresses at discounted prices in return for your feedback. So go ahead! Thanks!

Hi Chewbecca,

-I think even customized items can be returned or the customer can be paid for alterations. Although if you don't like customized, there's always the option to order a standard size.

-I'm a bit confused about the fabrics. If people don't buy polyester, who is buying all those clothes. I also don't want to buy polyester, but I can't find much so I buy clothes with low percentage of polyester.

-I am also a shortie, but that means anywhere from 4'10-5'4. Height varies so much which means clothes adjusted for individual height makes sense.

• Again, you like these necklines, someone else might like something different on the same dress

-I am not sure about free delivery. I have paid for delivery many times if I have liked something. and even when brands say free delivery, they have included that cost in the price. It's just a gimmick.

And I realize it's probably not possible to please everyone.

Hi travailtotravel,

I understand. The size fluctuation problem would be with standards sized clothes too. How do you cope with it? When I said customization, I meant it as an option. Of course, if I had a website, standard sizes would be available.

what do you think is a good price for a well-made dress/blouse in quality fabric.

For a dress happy to pay around £80, or more for a special occasion. Again, if you look at Hobbs prices those are ones I'm happy with.