In the world of e-commerce, dropshipping has become extremely popular, with more and more people jumping aboard the train. And within that, dropshipping apparel has even more advantages, thanks to being a low-risk, high-reward entry into the market.
But if you were to try dropshipping clothes yourself, how would you go about it? In this guide, we’ll look at everything you need to know to become an apparel dropshipper today.
What Is Dropshipping & How Does It Work In the Apparel Industry?
At its core, dropshipping is a retail fulfillment method where a store doesn’t stock the products it sells. Instead, it purchases the product from a third party and has it shipped directly to the customer. This model allows for a nimble and capital-efficient approach to launching and scaling an online store in the apparel industry.
There are several advantages of dropshipping in the apparel sector. From mitigating financial risks associated with inventory management to the flexibility of adapting to fast-changing fashion trends, the business model offers a unique set of benefits for ambitious entrepreneurs.
How to Get Started with Apparel Dropshipping
Research and Select a Niche
If you’re just entering the market, the first thing you should do is identify your niche. Different people like different things, and understanding your target audience is the first step. Staying on top of trends that resonate with these people will help set the foundation for success.
Choose Reliable Dropshipping Suppliers
It’s also very important to pick good, reputable apparel dropship suppliers. You want to look for reliability, product quality, and a dependable fulfillment process. In dropshipping, the success of your business relies on how good your suppliers are.
Select the Right eCommerce Platform
Since you’ll be using a social platform to actually run the business, don’t forget to compare and contrast different eCommerce platforms to find the one that aligns with your business goals and dropshipping requirements. Keep in mind factors such as user-friendliness, scalability, and integration capabilities.
Set Up Your Online Store
A visually appealing and user-friendly online store is everything for customer engagement. Make sure your store is perfect and offer a seamless online shopping experience, from product listings to checkout.
Design Memorable Branding Elements
In a saturated market, a strong brand identity sets you apart. You want to create memorable branding elements that resonate with your target audience and convey the uniqueness of your apparel offerings.
Streamline Order Fulfillment Processes
Efficient order fulfillment is key to customer satisfaction. Make sure your processes are streamlined to ensure timely and accurate deliveries, fostering positive customer experiences.
In case of errors, you should handle returns and exchanges transparently and efficiently. Make sure you establish clear policies and procedures around these to maintain customer trust.
Top 11 Apparel Dropshipping Suppliers
As mentioned, your business’s success greatly depends on your suppliers and their reliability. Here are 11 of the best apparel dropshipping suppliers you can turn to.
1. EPROLO – Branding & Fast Shipping
EPROLO is a versatile dropshipping supplier known for its wide range of products and efficient order fulfillment services. With a focus on quality and reliability, EPROLO connects online retailers with diverse clothing items, ensuring quick and seamless delivery to customers worldwide.
If you want to build your clothing brand, you can also enjoy the membership benefits of custom label, hangtag, packing bag, scotch tape and gift card with EPROLO Branding Project.
Their user-friendly platform and competitive pricing make them very popular among those looking to easily start or expand their dropshipping businesses.
2. Aliexpress
One of the largest and most well-known online marketplaces, Aliexpress, is a major dropshipping supplier of clothes. Offering an extensive array of fashion products from various sellers, Aliexpress provides a platform for entrepreneurs to source trendy and affordable clothing items for their businesses.
While the vast selection can be both an advantage and a challenge, Aliexpress remains a go-to option for those seeking a wide range of styles at different prices.
3. Printful
Specializing in print-on-demand services, Printful is a private-label clothes dropshipping supplier that enables retailers to create and sell custom-designed apparel without holding inventory.
The platform seamlessly integrates with various e-commerce platforms, such as Shopify, Etsy, ect., allowing entrepreneurs to personalize their offerings while Printful handles production and order fulfillment. This approach appeals to those looking for a hands-off and creative dropshipping experience.
4. EK Wholesale
EK Wholesale is a rising star in the world of dropshipping in UK, offering a diverse range of fashion products at competitive prices. With a focus on keeping up with the latest trends, EK Wholesale provides retailers with a constant influx of new and exciting inventory.
Their commitment to customer satisfaction and efficient order fulfillment makes them a reliable partner for businesses looking to establish a strong online presence in the fashion market.
5. CC Wholesale Clothing
CC Wholesale Clothing is a popular dropshipping apparel supplier that caters to various fashion tastes. Whether your customer base leans towards casual wear, formal attire, or activewear, CC Wholesale Clothing has a vast inventory to meet your needs.
The dropshipping wholesaler prides itself on offering competitive prices without compromising on quality, making it an attractive choice for businesses aiming to strike the perfect balance between affordability and style.
6. Style Centre
Style Centre is a dropshipping distributor of clothes that emphasizes classic and timeless fashion. With a focus on wardrobe staples, Style Centre provides retailers with a selection of clothing items that have enduring appeal. This approach suits entrepreneurs targeting a market that values enduring style over fleeting trends.
7. My Online Fashion Store
Renowned for its commitment to blending style with convenience, My Online Fashion Store stands out as a premier drop shipping supplier. With a curated collection of on-trend apparel, accessories, and footwear, the platform caters to the fashion-forward crowd.
My Online Fashion Store’s seamless dropshipping model ensures a hassle-free experience for retailers, promising timely deliveries and a vast inventory to keep your online store stocked with the latest trends.
8. Brands Distribution
For those seeking a wide array of high-end and popular brands, Brands Distribution is a go-to dropshipping supplier. Specializing in premium fashion labels, this supplier opens the doors to coveted designer pieces, allowing retailers to offer a touch of luxury to their customers.
9. Kiyonna
Kiyonna caters to a niche market by specializing in plus-size women’s clothing. As a dropshipping supplier, Kiyonna provides retailers with a range of stylish and flattering options for curvier customers.
This focus on inclusivity and fashion-forward designs makes Kiyonna a valuable choice for those seeking to serve a diverse and underserved audience.
10. AnnLoren
AnnLoren stands out as a dropshipping supplier specializing in children’s clothing. Focusing on whimsical designs and high-quality materials, AnnLoren provides retailers with charming kids’ apparel. This niche approach is ideal for entrepreneurs looking to tap into the lucrative market for fashionable and well-made children’s clothing.
11. Brandgateway
BrandsGateway focuses on providing retailers with access to well-known and popular fashion brands. As a branded dropshipping supplier, Brandgateway allows entrepreneurs to leverage the reputation and recognition of established brands in their online stores. This approach can be advantageous for those aiming to build trust and credibility with their customer base through recognizable and reputable fashion labels.
4 Best Marketing Strategies for Apparel Dropshipping
Once you’ve started your dropshipping business, you need to effectively market it to find success. No matter how amazing your product offering is, effective marketing efforts and strategies are the only way you’ll succeed as a business.
Leveraging Social Media for Brand Awareness
Make sure you harness the power of social media to build brand awareness. Engaging content can help foster a community around your brand to create a loyal customer base. More people will be interested in buying with more people aware of your brand.
Implementing Influencer Marketing
It can help to collaborate with influencers to amplify your reach. Strategically aligning yourself with influencers whose audience fits your target market is a very easy way to enter the market.
Content Marketing and SEO
Don’t forget to optimize your presence in the digital space! Content marketing and SEO strategies enhance your visibility and attract organic traffic to your store. Making use of these strategies will help boost you on the search and bring more users towards you.
Exploring Additional Product Lines and Niches
If you like, you can diversify your product offering and explore new niches within the apparel industry. Staying agile and adapting to evolving market demands is essential in any industry, particularly one dominated by fashion trends.
How to Overcome Potential Challenges in Apparel Dropshipping?
Dealing with Stockouts and Inventory Issues
Your success as a business depends largely on your supply, so make sure you have strategies in place in case of problems on that end! If there are stockouts or inventory issues, you’ll be in trouble if you don’t have a backup plan.
Managing Shipping Times and Customer Expectations
Transparent communication about shipping times is necessary to ensure your customers have reasonable expectations and remain satisfied. Address these properly to foster trust and satisfaction among your customers.
Handling Quality Control with Dropshipped Products
Quality control is another important aspect of customer satisfaction. Your customers will only come to you if they know they’re getting a good product! It would be a good idea to get samples from your suppliers to vet them beforehand and uphold your product standards.
Legal and Compliance Considerations
It’s important to navigate legal and compliance considerations diligently. Make sure your apparel dropshipping business operates within the boundaries of the law and you’re not in any position that could get you in trouble later.
Conclusion
Starting an apparel dropshipping business is tricky but not impossible! By paying attention to a few key aspects, you can make sure your business is successful and your customers are satisfied! But remember – persistence, perseverance, and adaptability are necessary. The industry is not easy to thrive in, but by keeping these tips in mind, you can build a trustworthy and loyal customer base and manage to get there.
FAQ
1. How do I find reliable dropshipping suppliers for apparel?
Finding reliable dropshipping suppliers involves thorough research, considering factors like reputation, product quality, and fulfillment efficiency.
2. What eCommerce platform is best for my apparel dropshipping store?
Choose a platform based on your specific needs and preferences. Popular options include Shopify, WooCommerce, and BigCommerce.
3. How can I market my apparel dropshipping store effectively?
Effective marketing involves leveraging social media, influencer collaborations, content marketing, and SEO to reach and engage your target audience.
4. How do I handle order fulfillment in a dropshipping model?
Streamline order fulfillment processes by working closely with reliable suppliers, monitoring inventory levels, and providing clear communication to customers.
5. How can I scale my apparel dropshipping business?
Scale your business by expanding your product range, exploring new niches, optimizing marketing strategies, and continuously refining your operations for efficiency and customer satisfaction.
