If you’ve been following along with our journey, you’ve already formed your LLC, snagged that wholesale license, and filled your boutique with swoon-worthy inventory. Now, it’s time to put it all together as you learn hot to make a clothing website.
I’m thrilled you’ve made it this far because, let’s be real, turning dreams into reality takes serious dedication. And you, my friend, are on the brink of something amazing – your very own online boutique!
Ready to see how to make a clothing website? Let’s dive in!
Choosing the Right Domain Name
Before you can build your website you need to buy your domain name. If you’re wondering what a domain name is; it’s simply ther name that people type into their online browser in order to end up on your website. For this site, the domain name is startyourboutique.com. Need help choosing (or double checking) that you have the perfect name for your boutique? Read this article.
Where to snag your dream domain? I love using – Namecheap. They don’t nickel and dime you like GoDaddy and they truly do offer domains for cheap rates (usually $8-$14).
Selecting the Best eCommerce Platform
Now that you’ve purchased a domain name for your online boutique, let’s talk about the engine that powers your digital storefront – your eCommerce platform! That’s where Shopify steps in.
Creating your account is a breeze, and they even offer different plans to suit your boutique’s needs.
Click here to get started with a free trial so you can test it out.
Customizing Your Boutique Website
Now that you have your Shopify account, you’re going to log-in to the backend and begin customizing your website.
One of the things I love most about Shopify is that they offer themes and a robust app store. You can find customizable themes that fit your desired style and match your budget.
And the app store has literally everything you can imagine so that you can boost the functionality of your website.
Customization is your secret weapon to create a website that’s uniquely yours. Dive into the themes, apps, experiment with colors, and let your brand’s personality shine through.
Adding Products and Managing Inventory
Now that your online space is looking as chic as your favorite outfit, it’s time to “fill your shelves”. That just means it’s time to add products, build out your product pages and organize your inventory. After adding in all that information, this is what shoppers will peruse when shopping on your website.
First things first, head over to Shopify and dive into the ‘Products’ section.
When creating a product; clear, concise product descriptions are key. Think of it as chatting with a friend about your favorite fashion finds.
Make sure your product images are top-notch. High resolution, multiple angles – give your customers a virtual runway show of your products. After all, they want to see every detail before making a decision.
Setting Up Payment Gateways
Now that your online space is decked out with gorgeous products, it’s time to talk about the business side of things – setting up payment gateways. We’re getting closer to making those sales, and that’s seriously exciting!
Setting up payment gateways is like having a smooth, well-paved runway for your customers to complete their fashion journey – no bumps, just a seamless transaction.
Shopify offers various payment gateways, each with its own perks. From credit cards to digital wallets, it’s all about giving your customers choices. The easier it is for them to pay, the more likely they are to come back for more.
Head over to your Shopify dashboard, click on ‘Settings,’ and then navigate to ‘Payments.’ Here, you can explore and choose the payment gateways that suit your boutique best. It’s a bit like picking the right shoes for an outfit – comfort and style combined.
Setting up payment gateways is the final touch that makes your boutique officially open for business.
Pro Tip: Consider offering multiple payment options to cater to a broader audience. It’s like going to a food court in the mall –you can find something for everyone!
Implementing Marketing Strategies
Now that you have all these tips on how to make a clothing website and your boutique is all set up for transactions, it’s time to spread the word and let the world know about your fabulous collection. Welcome to the exciting world of marketing strategies – where we turn those visitors into devoted customers.
To get started, you can always use social media. TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest – pick your platforms wisely, and start sharing your story. It’s not just about selling; it’s about creating a community around your brand.
As you build your presence on social media, I also recommend that you focus on building an email list.
Having an email list is like having a direct line to your customers. You can send out newsletters with sneak peeks, exclusive offers, and style tips. It’s the perfect way to keep your audience engaged and excited about what’s coming next.
PRO TIP: Consistency is key. Whether it’s posting on social media or sending out newsletters, stay consistent. Think of it like maintaining your signature style – recognizable and unforgettable.
What’s Next
You can confidently launch your online boutique this year… even if you’ve never sold anything online before!
In fact, you can do it in the next 3 months— without a fancy business degree, years of retail experience, or a huge following on social media.
Ready to go after your dream? Keep scrolling to take the first step!
