Many of us have felt the pressure of the recent economic downturn and our pay cheques just aren’t stretching the way they once were. Despite rising costs of living, the average income has not increased at the same rate. With that being said, know that you have the ability outside of your nine-to-five job to earn more money and change your financial situation.
Whether you are saving up for your future, paying down a mortgage, or want to buy yourself a special new purchase, money is out there to be made. It is highly likely that you possess a specialized skill that you were born with or have honed through interests and hobbies that you can capitalize on. These are six side hustles you can take advantage of, while building your experience and portfolio in fashion.
1. Sell Your Clothing
If you’re a fashion lover, we’ll go out on a limb and say you probably have a covetable closet. The next time you have the urge to clean out your closet, take stock of what you have that you have that no longer fits your personal style, lifestyle, or body and what might be worth some cash. You may be surprised at how much money you have sitting right in your closet. There are several options for previously loved clothing sales. You can take your clothes in-person to consignment stores or sell them yourself online through apps such as Poshmark, or Depop. If you have a large following on social media you could also organize your own clothing sale.
2. Freelance Writing
Are you bursting with ideas and have a talent to convey those ideas through the written word? What are you waiting for? Start pitching those ideas to magazines and online publications as a freelance writer. Come with a concise idea and put together a portfolio of previous work so the editor can get a sense of your writing style.
3. Custom Clothing Services
Do you have a sewing machine and talent for sewing and pattern making? People love custom designs, especially for special occasions like prom, weddings and more. Put those creative skills to use and help someone make their special day even more special with a custom design.
If you have a knack for organization and styling, consider offering customized services like closet editing, wardrobe planning, or outfit styling for special events.
4. Blogging / Vlogging / Social Media
The development of the internet and social platforms like YouTube, Instagram and TikTok has transformed the landscape of sharing information. These advancements have made it such that anyone with a story, or valuable information to share can not only do so, but can reach massive audiences that would otherwise be unimaginable.
It used to be the case that you would need industry connections, expensive PR teams, funding and more in order to gain large platforms. If you have a likeable personality, new ideas and a creative spark, it’s possible to make extra money from social media and blogging. If you start now, within a few months you could be earning some extra cash and seeing where it takes you.
5. Alteration Services
For those of you with sewing skills, alteration services can be a fairly simple way to make some extra money and build connections in fashion. Alterations tend to be a fairly quick job and you can often build repeat clientele. You can even connect with local boutiques and offer them a small discount so they can offer services like free pant hemming to their clients, which can result in steady weekly or monthly income.
6. Upcycling Clothing
Sustainability is a huge concern within the fashion industry. More and more people are looking for ways to shop sustainably, while still being able to refresh their closet with items that excite them. If you’re skilled in sewing and give it a sprinkle of imagination, you can transform old, outdated garments from your closet or the thrift store that would otherwise be forgotten. Turn them into brand new works of art that can be sold online or at local markets while building your portfolio and working your creative muscles—talk about rewarding!
7. Personal Styling or Image Consulting
Offer personalized styling services online or in-person. Help clients revamp their wardrobes, shop for new outfits, or prepare for special occasions. Create a compelling portfolio and collect testimonials from satisfied clients to build trust with potential customers.
8. Fashion Education and Workshops
If you have expertise in a specific area, such as fashion marketing, design, or sustainability, offer workshops, online courses, or tutoring services. First, you’ll want to identify your niche, develop your content, choosing the right platform (workshops and live Sessions, online courses, tutoring and coaching), and then determine a pricing strategy. Our founder, Christie Lohr, used to host fashion career workshops in the city! We’re keeping our fingers crossed for their return!
There are endless opportunities for making money. If you are feeling that your regular pay cheque just isn’t covering costs the way it used to, or you want to save up for a special occasion or purchase, take stock. What skills do you possess and how much would people be willing to pay you for that? Side hustles aren’t just for earning extra cash. This could be an opportunity to build a portfolio, network and set yourself up for a career transition in the future. Get creative, you never know where it could lead you!
Are you starting a side hustle and looking for ways to network and market your offering? Try the Style Nine to Five Personalized Contact Cards that reflect your personal brand and contact information.
Sheila O’Neill is a creative, innovative and inspiring storyteller with a background in fashion.
Feature Image: Adobe Stock