Ah, the fashion accessory: it can be as simple as a pair of shoes or a matching handbag, or it can cost more than the clothing outfit. Whatever the case may be, many people just do not feel complete without some fashion accessories. Stores, for this reason, have begun carrying an array of different products.
There was once a time when, if you wanted to purchase clothing, you would visit a store that specifically sold retail clothing. Accessories were sold elsewhere. That is not the case today, however, there are still stores geared specifically toward the sale of fashion accessories. If this describes your business, then you have a lot of competition. You not only have to compete with other accessory stores, but also have to compete with some major retailers.
For this and other reasons, you need to choose items that will compliment your business. Whether you are already a clothing retail store looking to add accessories or a new fashion accessories business just starting out, think about your clients when stocking your accessory inventory.
1. Cater to all areas of potential clients including men, women, and children.
2. Buy a variety of fashion accessories that can compliment multiple ensembles.
3. Buy designer products from fashion accessories distributors and wholesalers to make a profit.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Don't just sell clothing, sell clothing accessories
If you already sell retail clothing, then you can easily add jewelry fashion accessories. Stores that already provide clothing to their clients can help them complete their look with a jewelry fashion accessory or two. Consider your current clientele when purchasing accessories to sell at your store.
I recommend: YP Trading.com is a wholesale fashion and costume jewelry website. The prices are extremely reasonable, but it may be difficult to buy large quantities of the same item. For the younger generations, check out the products at
Monster Trendz, Inc. This site provides point of purchase display kits to help with product marketing. Other websites to check out include
Accessory B2B,
PinkTownUSA.com, and
Bosuk Jewelry.
Buy wholesale clothing accessories to make a bigger profit
You want to sell your fashion accessories and, at the same time, increase your profits. Wholesale websites might be the right place for you to buy designer fashion accessories for your business. These websites usually offer good discounts to retailers, and this allows you to sell your products for reasonable prices, while still making a good profit.
I recommend: Accessory Wholesale, Inc. has it all. They sell wholesale fashion accessories at discounted prices, but a minimum order of $75 is required. For designer fashion accessories and import fashion accessories, go to
eDesignerShop. This website offers authentic designer products at a reduced price. It provides proof of authenticity to ensure that each product is the real thing.
Brand Name Jeans also sells authentic designer fashion accessories. This website offers discounts for retailers. You must first provide your retail information to access the wholesale fashion accessories prices; later, there is an initial minimum order.
If you sell women's fashion accessories, you also need men's fashion accessories
When selling men's accessories, make sure you have a good selection of the basics: socks, belts, cuff links, ties, and watches. You may also want to carry some unique items, but keep these to a minimum. Remember, you can always restock if necessary.
I recommend: If you are looking for men's fashion accessories at discounted prices, check out
Solis,
L.L.Bean,
Land's End, and
Men's Wearhouse. For designer fashion accessories, visit
Armani Exchange,
Brooks Brothers, and
Cole Haan.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- If you want to add fashion accessories to your retail business but you don't want to spend a large amount of money, consider adding costume jewelry or other inexpensive clothes accessories.
- If offered, buy matching sets of items. For example, if there is a necklace, bracelet, and earrings that match, buy them all.
The official source of Fashion Accessories is the Fashion Accessories page at Business.com