Apparel and Accessories

Add panache to your business by selling apparel and clothing accessories
By Christine Pollock Gathering information on apparel and accessories is almost as fun as actually seeing them displayed in your storefront. Providing quality clothing in a variety of styles at reasonable prices makes your store ideal for repeat business.

Customers coming in for clothing save time and money when they select from the apparel accessories you offer. The way you set up your store also affects their shopping experience. Follow these steps to guide consumers in their purchasing.

1. Set eye-catching, moderately priced apparel and apparel accessories immediately inside the door and to the right; studies show this is where the American consumer almost always begins to shop.

2. Organize the store by sections with aisle labels so shoppers know where to find their particular style of clothing and accessories.

3. Find several spots to exhibit miscellaneous apparel accessories around your store; display some near the register to encourage impulse buys.

Purchase wholesale apparel and accessories for your store

Start with wholesale retailers when purchasing inventory for your store. Prices are reasonable, and you have the option of buying in bulk quantities.
Try:  When you're shopping for accessories, WholesaleFashionSquare.com offers a wide variety from classic style to trendy. If you want to offer fashionable clothing, wholesalers like US Style, Inc. offer modish selections. Shop for men at websites such as merchandizeliquidators.com, which offers a wide selection from Ralph Lauren to Roca. Daughter Nature sells jewelry, belt buckles, money clips and other accessories at wholesale prices.

Mix miscellaneous apparel and accessories

Offer customers a wide variety in price range and styles by mixing designer labels with replica designer clothing and accessories. Carry lines from swimsuits and jeans to formal dress.
Try:  JD Closeouts offers high end new brand name clothing from companies such as XOXO, Liz Claiborne, Nautica, Tommy and Calvin Klein. For a variety in accessories, AR Design offers choices from beads to pearls.

Offer variety in sizes for wholesale apparel

Provide clothing for full figures and petites to your clientele. Offer clothing and accessories in maternity, baby, children and adult categories. Many customers will appreciate the one-stop-shop for all their family needs.
Try:  Offering a selection for plus sizes gives your store an edge, since many stores don't carry this line. Find discounts at Wholesale Plus Size Clothing. Another feature that gives you an edge is offering formal wear for young boys, which you can find at Children's Wholesale.com. Customers will value a selection of maternity wear from business suits to swimsuits. Purchase high quality maternity fashions in bulk at Nicole Michelle Maternity Wholesale.

• Always shop well ahead of the next season, allowing time for delivery and inventory.
• Cross-promote your apparel and accessories using mannequins strategically placed around the store.