Superline NM NEW MIX

The Complete Guide to Buying Wholesale Women's Clothing

By Superline INC. — Updated January 2026

What Is Wholesale Buying?

Wholesale buying is the practice of purchasing goods in bulk directly from manufacturers or distributors at discounted prices, then reselling those products to consumers at retail prices. For clothing retailers, this means sourcing inventory at lower per-unit costs, allowing for profitable markups while still offering competitive prices to customers.

Whether you're starting a boutique, expanding an existing retail business, or supplying a chain of stores, understanding wholesale buying is essential for success in the fashion retail industry.

Why Buy Wholesale for Your Retail Business?

  • Better profit margins: Wholesale prices are typically 50-70% below retail, allowing for healthy markups
  • Inventory control: You choose exactly what styles, sizes, and quantities to stock
  • Brand consistency: Build relationships with suppliers whose quality and aesthetic match your store's identity
  • Competitive pricing: Lower costs mean you can offer attractive prices while maintaining profitability
  • Faster shipping: Having inventory on hand means quicker delivery to your customers

About Superline: Since 1983, Superline INC. has been a trusted Los Angeles Fashion District wholesale supplier, serving chain retailers, boutiques, and wholesalers across the United States, Mexico, Colombia, and beyond. Our New Mix collection offers fashion-forward women's apparel with new arrivals 2-3 times per month.

How to Get Started with Wholesale Buying

1. Research Suppliers Thoroughly

Not all wholesale suppliers are created equal. Before committing to any supplier, research their:

  • Quality consistency: Request samples or visit their showroom to inspect products firsthand
  • Minimum order requirements: Ensure their minimums fit your budget and storage capacity
  • Shipping policies: Understand delivery times, shipping costs, and geographic coverage
  • Return policies: Know what happens if items are defective or don't meet expectations
  • Reputation: Look for established suppliers with years of experience and positive references

2. Get Your Business Documents Ready

Most legitimate wholesale suppliers require documentation proving you're a legitimate business. Prepare the following:

  • Resale Certificate (Seller's Permit): This state-issued document allows you to purchase goods tax-free for resale. Apply through your state's tax or revenue department.
  • Business License: Obtained from your city or county, this authorizes you to operate a business in your location.
  • EIN (Employer Identification Number): Your federal tax ID, obtained free from the IRS. Required for tax reporting and many wholesale accounts.
  • Certificate of Insurance: Some suppliers may require proof of business liability insurance.

Pro Tip: Requirements vary by state. California, Texas, New York, and Florida each have different processes for obtaining resale certificates. Start the application process early, as it can take several weeks.

3. Understand Minimum Order Requirements

Wholesale suppliers set minimum order amounts to ensure orders are profitable to fulfill. These minimums vary widely:

  • Small minimums ($200-$500): Often found with newer suppliers or those targeting small boutiques
  • Standard minimums ($500-$1,000): Common among established mid-size wholesalers. At Superline, our minimum is $600 for delivery orders.
  • High minimums ($1,000-$5,000+): Typical for large-scale manufacturers and suppliers focused on chain stores

4. Calculate Your Budget and Markup Strategy

Before placing your first order, understand your financial position:

  • Available capital: How much can you invest in initial inventory?
  • Storage costs: Factor in warehouse or storage space expenses
  • Target markup: Plan for 2x-2.5x markup (keystone) as a starting point
  • Cash flow: Remember that inventory ties up capital until it sells

Types of Wholesale Arrangements

Traditional Wholesale

The most common arrangement: you purchase inventory upfront at wholesale prices, store it yourself, and sell to customers. You own the inventory and are responsible for unsold goods.

  • Pros: Best margins, full control over inventory and presentation, faster shipping to customers
  • Cons: Requires upfront capital, risk of unsold inventory, need for storage space

Consignment

The supplier provides inventory, but you only pay for items after they sell. Unsold items can typically be returned.

  • Pros: Lower financial risk, no upfront investment in that inventory
  • Cons: Lower margins, limited selection, supplier may prioritize other accounts

Dropshipping vs. Wholesale

While not technically wholesale, dropshipping is an alternative many new retailers consider:

  • Dropshipping: You sell products online; supplier ships directly to your customer. No inventory investment, but lower margins (typically 15-30%) and less control.
  • Wholesale: You buy and hold inventory. Higher margins (50-60%), full control, but requires capital and storage.

Private Label / Cut-and-Sew Manufacturing

For retailers wanting their own branded products, some suppliers offer private label services where they manufacture clothing with your labels and specifications.

  • Pros: Unique products, brand differentiation, no competition on identical items
  • Cons: Higher minimums, longer lead times, requires design input

Superline offers cut-and-sew manufacturing for chain stores and high-volume buyers looking for private label solutions. Contact our sales team to discuss custom manufacturing options.

What to Look for in a Wholesale Supplier

Quality Consistency

The most important factor in choosing a supplier. Inconsistent quality leads to returns, refunds, and damaged reputation. Look for suppliers who:

  • Have been in business for many years (longevity indicates reliability)
  • Allow you to inspect samples before large orders
  • Have clear quality control processes
  • Can provide references from existing customers

Reliable Inventory and Restock Frequency

Nothing frustrates customers more than out-of-stock items. A good supplier should:

  • Maintain consistent inventory of core styles
  • Communicate clearly about stock levels
  • Introduce new styles regularly to keep your offerings fresh
  • Provide advance notice of discontinuations

Communication and Customer Service

Responsive, helpful communication makes business smoother:

  • Multiple contact methods (phone, email, WhatsApp)
  • Dedicated sales representatives who know your account
  • Quick responses to inquiries
  • Willingness to accommodate special requests when possible

Clear Return and Exchange Policies

Understand the policy before you order:

  • What conditions allow for returns?
  • Is there a time limit for returns?
  • Are returns for store credit or refund?
  • Who pays return shipping?

Shipping Speed and Costs

Fast, affordable shipping keeps your inventory flowing:

  • Ask about typical processing and shipping times
  • Understand shipping cost structure
  • Check if expedited options are available
  • Confirm they ship to your location (domestic and international)

Guide to the LA Fashion District

Overview of the District

The Los Angeles Fashion District, located in Downtown LA, is the hub of West Coast fashion wholesale. Spanning roughly 100 blocks, it's home to thousands of showrooms, manufacturers, and wholesalers offering everything from budget basics to designer-quality apparel.

Why LA Is a Wholesale Hub

  • Manufacturing heritage: Los Angeles has been a garment manufacturing center since the early 1900s
  • Port access: The Port of Los Angeles/Long Beach is the largest in the Western Hemisphere, making import/export efficient
  • Trend proximity: LA's entertainment and fashion industries create a trend-forward environment
  • Diversity of suppliers: From small boutique wholesalers to large-scale manufacturers, every need is covered

Tips for Visiting in Person

  • Best days: Tuesday through Thursday tend to be less crowded than Mondays or Fridays
  • Hours: Most showrooms open 9 AM-5 PM, Monday through Friday. Saturday hours vary.
  • Bring documentation: Your resale certificate, business license, and business cards
  • Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be walking and standing for hours
  • Bring cash: Some vendors prefer cash; others accept cards. Be prepared for both.
  • Take notes: You'll see many suppliers; keep track of styles, prices, and minimums

Working with LA Suppliers Remotely

Can't visit in person? Many LA wholesalers, including Superline, work extensively with remote buyers:

  • WhatsApp communication: Get daily inventory updates and catalog images
  • Email catalogs: Request lookbooks and price sheets
  • Online platforms: Some suppliers list inventory on FashionGo and similar marketplaces
  • Video calls: Schedule virtual showroom tours
  • Sample orders: Request samples before committing to larger orders

Working with Superline

Our Product Categories

Superline's New Mix collection offers a diverse range of women's apparel:

  • Activewear: Leggings, sports bras, workout sets, and athletic tops
  • Dresses: Casual, formal, and everything in between
  • Loungewear: Comfortable sets, pajamas, and relaxed-fit basics
  • Plus Size: Stylish options for sizes 1X-3X and beyond
  • Junior & Missy: Trend-forward styles for different body types and age groups

Minimum Order

Delivery orders start at a $600 minimum. For high-volume and chain store pricing, contact our sales line directly to discuss custom arrangements.

How to Register as a Buyer

  1. Complete our online registration form (English or Spanish versions available)
  2. Submit your business documentation (resale certificate, business license)
  3. Our team will review and approve your account
  4. Start browsing catalogs and placing orders
English Registration Registro en Espanol

Contact Information

Showroom Visits

Visit us at the San Pedro Wholesale Mart in the heart of the LA Fashion District. We're open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM. No appointment necessary, but calling ahead ensures a sales representative will be available to assist you.

FashionGo for Smaller Orders

Looking to start with smaller quantities? Our sister company New Mix is available on FashionGo, making it easy to explore our styles, test new items, and place smaller orders with convenient online checkout.

Shop on FashionGo

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents do I need to buy wholesale clothing?
To buy wholesale, you typically need a valid resale certificate (also called a seller's permit or sales tax permit), a business license, and an EIN (Employer Identification Number) for tax purposes. Requirements vary by state, so check with your local government for specific documentation needed in your area.
What is a typical minimum order for wholesale clothing?
Minimum orders vary significantly by supplier. At Superline, our minimum order is $600 for delivery orders. Some suppliers require higher minimums of $1,000-$5,000, while others may have lower minimums for first-time buyers. Always confirm minimum order requirements before placing your first order.
How do I calculate markup for wholesale clothing?
A common retail markup for clothing is 2x to 2.5x the wholesale cost (known as keystone markup). For example, if you buy a dress wholesale for $20, you might retail it for $40-$50. Higher-end boutiques may use 2.5x-3x markup, while discount retailers might use 1.5x-2x. Factor in your overhead costs, competition, and target market when setting prices.
What is the difference between wholesale and dropshipping?
With wholesale, you purchase inventory upfront, store it yourself, and ship orders to customers. You have control over quality, packaging, and faster shipping times. With dropshipping, you don't hold inventory—when a customer orders, the supplier ships directly to them. Wholesale typically offers better margins but requires more capital; dropshipping has lower startup costs but less control and lower margins.
How do I find reliable wholesale clothing suppliers?
Look for established suppliers with a proven track record, like those in the LA Fashion District who have been in business for decades. Check reviews and references, request samples before large orders, verify their business credentials, and start with smaller orders to test quality and reliability. Attending trade shows and visiting showrooms in person can also help you evaluate suppliers.
Can I visit the LA Fashion District to buy wholesale?
Yes, the LA Fashion District welcomes wholesale buyers. Most showrooms are open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM. Bring your resale certificate and business documentation. Many suppliers, including Superline at the San Pedro Wholesale Mart, have showrooms where you can see products in person, meet with sales representatives, and place orders on the spot.
How often do wholesale suppliers release new styles?
This varies by supplier. At Superline, we introduce new arrivals 2-3 times per month through our New Mix collection, keeping inventory fresh and on-trend. Some suppliers update seasonally (4 times per year), while fast-fashion wholesalers may add new styles weekly. Ask potential suppliers about their new arrival schedule to ensure it matches your store's needs.