How To Sell Clothes Online: 10 Steps for Success

Key takeaways: 

• To succeed at selling clothes online, you should first understand your target audience and choose a suitable platform.
• It’s important to prepare clothes properly and create listings with high-quality photos to attract customers.
• Building a strong clothing brand identity and using social media promotions are also necessary for increasing sales and customer trust.

As online shopping and international shipping have become more popular, distributing clothes all over the world has never been easier.  

Selling clothes online, whether they’re secondhand outfits, designer clothes, vintage items, or boutique collections, has become an increasingly profitable venture for individuals and small business owners alike. 

In this guide, we’ll show you how to sell clothes online and offer you valuable tips you can use along the way. 

10 steps to sell clothes online 

Selling clothes online provides two main opportunities: it’s a sustainable practice and a lucrative opportunity for extra income. Statista forecasts that the fast-fashion industry’s global market value will reach approximately USD185 billion by 2027. 

Beyond that, this kind of business also lets you tap into a wide market to sell a range of clothing, including latest trendy apparel, vintage clothing, and boutique exclusives. 

With that said, here’s how to start your online clothing store: 

1. Understand your target audience
2. Choose the right platform for your clothes
3. Prepare the clothes for sale
4. Price clothes strategically
5. Build a recognizable brand that buyers trust
6. Create listings that attract customers
7. Use prepaid shipping labels for convenience
8. Promote your listings on social media
9. Respond to concerns and gather feedback
10. Track your online sales and make adjustments

Step 1. Understand your target audience 

Understanding your target market is an important step to take before you can start selling clothes online. Your customers can be diverse, but they usually fall into a few categories, like: 

• Eco-conscious shoppers
• Fashion-forward individuals
• Budget shoppers
• Niche markets

Let’s break down each one. 

Eco-conscious shoppers 

These buyers are looking for sustainable fashion choices. They prefer clothes that are environmentally friendly and are often willing to invest in quality pieces that last longer.  

Fashion-forward individuals 

This group is always on the lookout for unique items to stand out. They’re interested in vintage, boutique, or designer pieces that aren’t widely available in conventional stores.  

Budget shoppers 

These customers look for good deals on clothing. They might be interested in everyday wear or even designer items, as long as they’re at a reduced price.  

Niche markets 

Some buyers might be looking for specific items, such as: 

• Plus-size vintage clothing
• Retro sportswear
• Handmade artisanal pieces

Now, knowing who you’re selling to doesn’t stop at identifying a group of people. You also need to understand the following: 

• Their needs
• Their preferences
• The reasons they shop second-hand

Once you figure this out, you can then tailor your sales strategy to align with their values and shopping habits. You can: 

• Create targeted product listings
• Send out compelling marketing messages
• Provide great customer service experiences

Step 2. Choose the right platform for your clothes 

Pick the best platform for your clothing shop by weighing out your options. Consider the following choices: 

• Online store builders
• eBay
• Depop
• Poshmark
• ThredUP
• Etsy
• TheRealReal
• Facebook Marketplace

Here’s a guide to these platforms to help you choose wisely: 

Online store builders 

Online store builders offer an easy way to create a virtual clothing store. You get all the tools that let you control several things, such as: 

• How you sell your clothes
• How your shop is set up
• How you want to run your site

Platforms like Network Solutions offer an AI-powered eCommerce Website Builder that makes the process of building an online store quick and easy.

You basically answer a few prompts about your online store, and then you get to customize it to your liking. The best part about it? You don’t even need to have any coding knowledge.

eBay 

eBay is a massive platform that reaches a global audience, and is suitable for selling any type of clothing, including: 

• Brand-new items
• Used clothes
• Vintage pieces

eBay offers flexibility with auction-style and fixed-price listings, which cater to a wide range of seller and buyer preferences.  

Depop 

Depop appeals to a younger demographic and is ideal for sellers of unique, vintage, or handmade clothing. It combines the feel of a social media platform with eCommerce, as it encourages direct interaction between sellers and buyers. This, in turn, fosters an online community for fashion enthusiasts.  

Poshmark 

Poshmark specializes in designer and high-end fashion. This platform offers features like prepaid shipping labels and emphasizes community through social sharing and parties.  

ThredUP 

ThredUP is an online consignment and thrift store for sellers looking to declutter without the hassle of managing the selling process. This platform takes care of the following for a portion of the revenue: 

• Listings
• Shipping
• Returns

Etsy 

Etsy is perfect for sellers of vintage and handmade or custom clothing items. It supports a creative community and connects sellers with buyers looking for unique and personalized fashion items you can’t find elsewhere.  

The RealReal 

The RealReal is a luxury online consignment store for authentic designer clothing, accessories, and more. It offers a comprehensive authentication process, which makes it a trusted platform for high-end fashion.  

Facebook Marketplace 

The Facebook Marketplace is a free and easy way to sell clothes online. You can quickly post items and chat directly with buyers through Facebook. It allows you to sell locally or to wider audiences without extra fees. 

Platforms for an online clothing business: A comparison table 

Platform	Best For	Pros	Cons
Online store builders	Building a brand; direct customer relationships	You control the design; comprehensive eCommerce tools	You need to drive traffic
eBay	Selling new, used, or unique items	A huge global audience and powerful seller tools	Complex fees; high competition
Depop	Trendy, vintage, streetwear fashion	Niche audience; no selling fees for US- and UK- based sellers	Works for a specific aesthetic; limited search features
Poshmark	Fashion and accessories; social selling	Listing is simple; prepaid shipping labels	High shipping fees for buyers
ThredUP	Hands-off selling of clothes	Minimal effort required; no need to provide your own photos	Low payouts
Etsy	Handmade, vintage, or craft supplies	A large, niche audience; supportive community	High competition
The RealReal	Authenticated luxury goods	A hands-off consignment process; access to high-end buyers	High commission rates
Facebook Marketplace	Local, in-person sales	Free to list; large local audience	Unreliable buyers

5 factors to consider when picking a platform 

Selecting the right platform for your clothes involves balancing several factors with your personal selling goals and preferences. Some points to consider include: 

• Fees
• Audience
• Ease of use
• Brand alignment
• Support and tools

Fees 

Understand the fee structure, including: 

• Listing fees
• Transaction fees
• Any additional charges

These costs can impact your profit, so pick a platform that suits your selling objectives. 

Audience 

Each platform caters to a specific demographic. Find out where your target customers are most likely to shop, and then build your online shop there.  

Ease of use 

Look for a user-friendly interface, especially if you’re new to selling online. The easier it is to list your items, the quicker you can start selling.  

Brand alignment 

Find a platform that reflects your brand identity. If that’s not possible, look for one that lets you customize your online store to fit your branding. 

Support and tools 

Some platforms offer more support and tools than others, including: 

• Shipping solutions
• Marketing tools
• Seller education resources

These tools can be invaluable for new sellers. 

It’s often a good idea to start small. Consider starting with one platform to focus on and expand later as you gain more experience and confidence. 

Step 3. Prepare the clothes for sale 

The condition and presentation of your items can dramatically influence their appeal and value. Here are some of the most necessary steps to ensure your clothes are in their best condition: 

1. Wash or dry clean
2. Inspect and repair
3. Iron or steam

1. Wash or dry clean 

Make sure every item is clean. You can use the following methods, but base it on each one’s care instructions to avoid any damage: 

• A gentle hand wash
• A run through the washing machine
• A trip to the dry cleaners

2. Inspect and repair 

Look over each item for any signs of wear, such as: 

• Loose threads
• Missing buttons
• Small tears

If you’re unable to fix any flaws, be transparent about it in your listing. Also, ensure that you’re as accurate as possible about them so you can set proper expectations for customers. 

3. Iron or steam 

Wrinkles can make even the highest-quality clothing look tired and worn. Ironing or steaming your clothes before photographing them can encourage a positive purchasing decision. 

Step 4. Price clothes strategically 

Pricing your clothes effectively is a balance between understanding your items’ market value and setting prices that attract buyers. Here’s how to do that: 

1. Look at comparable sold listings
2. Consider platform fees
3. Be open to negotiations
4. Offer markdowns or bundles

1. Look at comparable sold listings 

Research what other sellers charge for similar items. Look at listings that have sold, not just those currently for sale. This gives you a clear picture of what buyers are willing to pay. 

To find the right price, consider the following item descriptions: 

• Brand
• Condition
• Style 

You can set higher listing prices for clothes that are currently in high demand or are rare, such as vintage pieces from luxury brands. For vintage and boutique items from luxury brands, like Louis Vuitton and Chanel, uniqueness and rarity can justify higher price tags. 

Additionally, follow fashion trends and seasonal changes closely to adjust your pricing accordingly. 

2. Consider additional fees 

After you establish a base price, factor in additional fees like: 

• Platform fees
• Shipping costs
• Packaging expenses

Setting a price that includes these extra costs helps ensure you make a profit. 

3. Be open to negotiations 

Many online selling platforms allow buyers to make offers. If you’re willing to hear out negotiations, set your initial price slightly higher to give yourself some room. But be realistic about the lowest price you’re willing to accept. 

Pro tip: Communicate your item’s value clearly in your listings so buyers understand what makes your item worth its price. 

4. Offer markdowns or bundles 

To sell your clothes faster, you can offer markdowns or bundles. Markdowns are great for clearing out older inventory, while bundling similar items together can attract buyers who want a great deal. However, make sure to set a price that feels fair to you and your potential buyers. 

This approach can help you sell multiple items at once, which increases your overall sales volume. 

Step 5. Build a recognizable brand that buyers trust 

Consistent branding shows buyers you’re serious about your business, which helps foster a sense of trust. If customers trust your brand, they’re more likely to make repeat purchases. 

Follow these steps to establish a strong clothing brand using your online store: 

1. Pick a store name
2. Define your niche
3. Create a cohesive look
4. Design a logo

1. Pick a store name 

Choose a memorable store name and, if you’re considering building an eCommerce website, secure a matching domain name. A good brand name should reflect your store’s style and be easy for customers to remember. 

If you’re having trouble coming up with ideas, read our article that talks about how to name a product. You’ll learn about product naming strategies you can use when selecting your store name. 

2. Define your niche 

Do you sell minimalist workwear, bold statement pieces, or retro vintage finds? Know your specific style to attract dedicated buyers who share your taste. 

3. Create a cohesive look 

Make your brand recognizable by using the same elements across listings and social platforms, such as: 

• Tone
• Color palette
• Visual style

For example, if your brand is modern and sleek, use clean, uncluttered photos with a consistent background. On the other hand, a playful and colorful brand would benefit from vibrant images and an enthusiastic tone in your descriptions. 

4. Design a logo 

To further enhance your brand’s professionalism, consider creating a logo for your store page. A unique and creative logo helps your brand stand out and adds to the overall visual appeal of your shop.

Step 6. Create listings that attract customers 

Product listings display items for sale online, giving information like: 

• What they look like
• How much they cost
• What makes them special 

They help shoppers decide what to buy by showcasing the product’s important features. A compelling product description tells a story that resonates deeply with potential buyers. 

Consider these tips as you create your product listings: 

• Be descriptive
• Tell a story
• Optimize your listing for search engines
• Take high-quality photos

Be descriptive 

Apart from being accurate with the unrepairable flaws in the items, ensure that you are as detailed as possible when describing your item. Include information like: 

• Color
• Size
• Fabric
• Condition

Tell a story 

Make your items stand out by sharing their history or what makes them special. For example, you can share how you found a vintage jacket or describe the unique journey of a handmade dress. 

This narrative helps buyers form an emotional connection with the item. A compelling story can transform a simple piece of clothing into a treasured possession, which makes it more appealing to potential customers.  

Optimize your listing for search engines 

Search engine optimization (SEO) helps your listings rank high in relevant searches. To do this, use keywords people use to search for items like yours and include them in your titles and descriptions. Beyond that, make sure to use all available fields, such as categories and tags. 

Take high-quality photos 

One of the best ways to sell clothes online is through captivating photography. High-quality photos display your items in the best light and highlight their unique features and details. Here are some photography elements to help you capture a professional picture for your listings: 

• Good lighting
• Clear background
• Multiple angles
• Consistency

Good lighting 

Natural light helps you capture the true colors and textures of your clothing. Try to take photos during the day in a well-lit room or near a window.  

Clear background 

Use a simple, uncluttered background that doesn’t distract from the item you’re selling. A neutral wall or a clean, flat surface can work well.  

Multiple angles 

Include photos from various angles and close-ups of any special details or features, like embroidery or unique buttons. Also, include any flaws to ensure transparency and build trust with your buyers.  

Consistency 

Try to maintain a consistent look for all your photos. This will make your collection look more professional and will help establish your brand identity. 

Step 7. Use prepaid shipping labels for convenience 

Sellers use prepaid shipping labels to eliminate the need for buyers to pay at the time of receiving or for sellers to calculate postage for each package manually. 

It streamlines the shipping process, which allows you to prepare packages quickly and accurately. Many platforms also negotiate discounted shipping rates with carriers, which can help save you money on shipping costs. 

Additionally, a prepaid shipping label offers a smoother, faster buying experience, enhancing customer satisfaction and encouraging repeat business.  

To get started, we’ve listed these steps:  

1. Select an online selling platform that offers integrated shipping solutions.
2. Once you’ve made a sale, the platform typically calculates the shipping cost based on two factors: the item’s weight and dimensions, and the buyer’s location.
3. Access the prepaid label through the platform’s interface and print it out on standard paper. Some platforms might also offer options to print directly to label printers.
4. Pack your sold item securely so it’s protected during transit. Use sturdy packaging materials to increase customer satisfaction and reduce the likelihood of returns.
5. Attach the prepaid label to the package. Make sure to cover or remove old labels and barcodes to avoid confusion.
6. Drop off the package at the designated carrier’s location or schedule a pickup. You can use tracking options associated with the shipping label to monitor your package’s journey and provide updates to your customer.

Ensure your item descriptions include accurate weights and dimensions to prevent discrepancies in shipping costs. 

Pro tip: Familiarize yourself with the shipping policies of the platform you’re using, including any responsibilities you have as a seller regarding lost or damaged items. 

Step 8. Promote your listings on social media 

Simple, engaging promotions can attract more buyers and turn them into loyal fans of your brand. We recommend these tips to maximize your social media presence: 

• Pick the best social media platform
• Talk and listen
• Get people excited
• See what works
• Optimize for search engines
• Deploy ads
• Get listed on directories

Pick the best social platform 

Observe where your potential buyers like to spend their time online. Use Instagram to share great photos of your clothes, and Facebook and TikTok for wider reach.  

Talk and listen 

Reply to comments and messages, join fashion groups, and chat with people to build a friendly community around your brand.  

Get people excited 

Host giveaways, offer discounts or coupons, and collaborate with fashion influencers to draw more attention to your listings.  

See what works 

Keep an eye on which posts people like the most and which social platform drives more visits and sales to your shop.  

Optimize for search engines 

Make sure your social media profiles and posts use keywords that potential buyers might use to search for items similar to yours. SEO makes it easier for buyers to find you.  

Deploy ads 

Consider using paid advertisements on social platforms to reach a broader audience. Additionally, target your ads based on your customers’ profile descriptions, like their interests and location. 

Get listed on directories 

Place your shop on online directories and marketplaces specific to your niche. This can increase your visibility to shoppers who are specifically looking for the types of clothes you sell. 

To take it further, check out our article about social media branding to help boost engagement for your online clothing store. 

Step 9. Respond to concerns and gather feedback 

People tend to trust real people’s opinions, and happy customers often lead to more sales by recommending your shop to others. Excellent and reliable customer service and positive feedback are the foundation of any successful business.  

Be prompt when responding to customers and solve their problems so they come back and buy more. If they’re satisfied, they’re more likely to leave positive feedback. This helps build your shop’s reputation and makes others more confident to buy from you.  

Add to that, pay attention to what customers say in their reviews. Thank them for positive feedback and respond thoughtfully to any negative comments. 

Then, use the information to improve your products and services. Once you’ve received their feedback, you can send personal notes or a freebie to thank them for their time. 

Step 10. Track your online sales and make adjustments 

Analyzing your sales through available tools and metrics allows you to understand what strategy is working and what isn’t. Use the checklist below to start monitoring your efforts: 

1. Use analytics tools to track your sales, views, and customer engagement. You can try Google Analytics or Mixpanel.
2. Focus on your key performance indicators (KPIs). These metrics give insight into important data, such as: 

• What item sells
• How much customers are spending
• If they’re satisfied with their purchases

3. Note which items sell quickly and which ones don’t. This can inform your decisions on what types of clothing to stock up on and which ones to phase out or offer at a discounted rate.
4. Analyze how your pricing affects sales. Are higher-priced items selling as expected? Do sales increase with promotions or discounts? Adjusting your prices based on sales data can help you maximize your profit while attracting buyers.
5. Look at how your marketing campaigns correlate with sales, including your social media promotions and email marketing. This can lead to more sales while helping you effectively allocate your budget.
6. Use sales data to anticipate demand and tailor your inventory and marketing accordingly. This data can reveal trends, such as seasonal spikes in certain types of clothing or increased interest in specific styles or brands.
7. Regularly analyze your sales and be willing to adapt your strategy for long-term success.

Turn your passion for fashion into a successful business 

To be successful at selling clothes online, you need to follow several steps. These include understanding your target market and choosing the right online selling platform. It also requires promoting your products on social media and applying customer feedback for improvement. 

With that said, partner with Network Solutions to build your online clothing store. With our eCommerce Website Builder Package, we provide a range of online selling capabilities that will help your clothing brand grow. 

Start today! 

Frequently asked questions