Sub-page of: How to Start a Clothing Brand
If you’re dreaming of launching your own clothing brand, one of the first questions you’ll face is: “How much money do I actually need to get started?”
The answer? It depends on your business model — but you can start lean, especially with modern tools, smart planning, and startup-friendly manufacturers like Ninghow Apparel.
This guide breaks down the minimum budget needed to start a clothing brand, based on real startup scenarios. Whether you’re working with $300 or $3,000, here’s how to stretch every dollar.
Budget Ranges: From Lean to Full-Featured
1. Lean Startup Model ($300–$1,000)
- Ideal for: Pre-order launches, solo founders, side hustlers
- Main costs:
- Logo + brand design: $50–$100
- Sample or mockup production: $100–$200
- Social content and setup: Free–$100
- Landing page or Shopify Starter: $5–$50/month
- Pre-order promo ads or tools: $50–$200
2. Test & Grow Model ($1,000–$3,000)
- Ideal for: First drop with inventory, small collections
- Includes all lean startup costs plus:
- Inventory for 1–3 SKUs (50–100 pieces)
- Custom labeling/branding from Ninghow Apparel
- Professional product photoshoot
3. Brand Build-Out Model ($3,000–$10,000+)
- Ideal for: Ecommerce-ready brand, larger launch, or influencer collab
- Adds on:
- Full Shopify store or WooCommerce setup
- Expanded inventory (3–6 styles)
- Influencer seeding or paid collaborations
- Pro packaging + fulfillment setup
What Influences Your Clothing Brand Budget?
- Number of SKUs: More styles = higher production and sampling cost
- Customization: Screen print, embroidery, dye, and labels all add cost
- MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity): Lower MOQs cost more per unit
- Fulfillment method: In-house, dropshipping, or 3PL?
- Marketing strategy: Organic vs. paid traffic
How to Start with the Smallest Budget Possible
You can launch your brand with a minimal budget by:
- Using print-on-demand platforms for zero upfront inventory
- Launching via pre-orders to fund your first production run
- Starting with one high-quality product to build brand focus
- Partnering with low-MOQ manufacturers like Ninghow Apparel
- Leveraging free design tools (Canva, Figma, Looka) and social media
Example $500 Budget Plan (Pre-Order Model)
- Logo + brand visuals: $50-$150
- Hoodie sample from Ninghow Apparel: $50 (There is a chance to get free samples)
- Landing page with Notion or Carrd: Free–$20
- Instagram/TikTok content: Free (DIY)
- Paid promotion: $100–$200
- Stickers or packaging inserts: $25–$50
You take pre-orders, then use the revenue to place your bulk order.
Why Work with a Low-MOQ Manufacturer?
At Ninghow Apparel, we specialize in helping startups launch affordably by offering:
- Small minimum order quantities (starting at 50–80 pieces)
- Custom branding like woven labels, embroidery, and unique colorways
- Fast sampling to validate designs before full production
- Flexible production runs so you don’t overcommit
This allows you to spend wisely, test ideas, and improve with each drop.
Bonus Tips for Budget-Conscious Founders
- Start with unisex or universal sizing to reduce inventory complexity
- Use mockups instead of full photo shoots to preview styles
- Build buzz organically through your story and content
- Delay full website build until you validate your market
Final Thoughts
You don’t need $10,000 to start a clothing brand — just a clear vision, a smart launch plan, and the right manufacturing partner. Whether you’re starting lean or going all-in, planning your budget upfront is key to long-term success.
And if you want to stretch your dollars even further? Partner with Ninghow Apparel to unlock custom manufacturing with low MOQs and real startup support.
