Determine upcoming trends in activewear for women There's nothing worse than having inventory that doesn't move. In order to keep up with the trends, attend yearly conferences in women's sportswear and develop good relationships with wholesalers.

I recommend:  Large cities offer trade shows, from Las Vegas to Atlanta, and they're always changing. Log on to TSSN.com and use their search engine to find shows in your area, and determine how many women's casualwear vendors will be on display. Apparel Search has the Women's Clothing Trade Show Directory, and is another great resource for women's activewear. Don't like to travel? A buyer, such as Apparel Off Price may be for you. It is an online service that determines your business needs, then does the buying for you, for a price. The National Retail Federation (NRF) is another way for you to stay in touch with current trends.

Decide on the brands of ladies activewear and ladies casualwear you want to carry Since favorite brands vary by region, you'll want to decide on the key brands of ladies activewear you want to carry. Much will be determined by geography and demographics when choosing women's activewear. So, if you're near a golf course, you need to offer ladies golf apparel. If you're closer to mountain ranges or bluffs used by rock climbers, you'll need climbing tops. It's important to provide the activewear for women in your area that they'll use and like.

I recommend:  Good all-around brands such as Columbia Sportswear Company, Patagonia and Ex-Officio offer a variety of women's casualwear, suitable for hikes or for Fridays at the office. Lucy, Horny Toad,and Danskin carry some hip, fun, more specialized women's sportswear.

Decide on the women's sportswear and women's activewear basics you will always carry From new socks to replacement tees and hoodies to that much needed pair of Friday work pants, there are some items of clothing every woman needs. If she knows she can find them at your store, she's more likely to become a regular customer.

I recommend:  Socks can be a popular item with a great return. In colder climates try carrying Smartwool. The Champion brand is also famous for its socks, as well as its t-shirts and sweats, as is Nike. For that much needed pair of work pants, Gaiam and title nine offer that comfortable, affordable and yet work-appropriate lline.