Tout savoir sur le statut VDI des Shopping Planner Elora - Elora

Everything you need to know about the VDI status of Elora Fashion Consultants

A Independent Home Seller (VDI) is a brand ambassador in the field. Their role is to distribute the products or services of a company with which they have a written distribution contract, to clients for whom they organize private sales.

Independent sellers make direct product sales to clients, following specific regulations. The products and services they offer range from fashion to gastronomy, as well as cosmetics and jewelry.

 

What is the VDI status? How does it work?

A VDI (Independent Home Seller) is a sales professional who works in direct sales, usually at home or during private gatherings. This status allows them to work autonomously, without any subordination to a company, while benefiting from a VDI contract with that company and a specific legal framework.

The VDI status offers great flexibility and can be combined with another professional activity.

There are two types of VDI, both working as self-employed entrepreneurs (micro-enterprise status):

 

Agent VDI Contract

This first type of Independent Home Seller acts on behalf of a company; they earn a commission on sales made but do not have to build up or manage their own stock, which minimizes the initial investment and any potential risk.

Buyer-Reseller VDI Contract

This second type of Independent Home Seller buys products from the company they represent, then resells them to their clients at a margin; in a way, they are a “buyer-reseller,” which means you need a good sense of business—and solid finances from the start.


       

      Is the VDI truly independent?

      It’s not always easy to find your way with all the information out there. It’s important to understand that a VDI is not an employee of the company they represent. The VDI is an independent worker who benefits from standard Social Security coverage. Their income depends directly on sales made, in the form of commissions. The contract for this type of activity is therefore not governed by labor law. 

      The activity of a VDI is carried out in complete legal safety, as its scope is governed by both the Commercial Code and the Consumer Code. The most suitable status is that of a micro-enterprise (self-employed entrepreneur registered with the Trade Register).

      Becoming self-employed means benefiting from a simplified system where the Fashion Consultant pays reduced contributions and only needs to make a simple sales declaration to the relevant authorities, including URSSAF. They are also exempt from VAT up to a certain sales threshold.

      All these advantages are designed to lighten the load and simplify the process for self-employed entrepreneurs, which explains the rapid success of micro-enterprises in France.

      Can you combine Fashion Consultant status with salaried employment?

      The status of Independent Home Sales Consultant (VDI) is not considered a full-fledged “profession,” but rather a legal status that allows you to run a commercial activity independently, within the framework of a contract with the brand you represent. A Fashion Consultant can sell products or services on behalf of a company without being an employee, while benefiting from a specific tax and social security system.

      A Fashion Consultant can combine this activity with another status, such as salaried employment, retirement, or another independent activity. 

      Being a Fashion Consultant is a commercial activity that can be done occasionally or full-time, depending on the person’s goals and level of involvement. Some make it their main source of income, while others do it as a supplement.

      Why do companies seek Fashion Consultants?

      Companies value working with Independent Home Sales Consultants (VDI) for several strategic reasons:

      • Flexibility and Low Cost: The Fashion Consultant status allows companies to grow their sales network without hiring employees, reducing social and administrative costs, while benefiting from independent, flexible, and motivated salespeople.
      • Access to a Wider Market: Fashion Consultants connect directly with consumers, often through home demonstrations or social networks, enabling companies to reach clients they might not have otherwise.
      • Autonomy and Performance: Fashion Consultants are independent and earn commissions, motivating them to find and retain clients, maximize their sales, and be proactive in their professional approach.
      • Rapid Growth: This model allows companies to easily recruit new salespeople and adapt their sales force according to demand.
      • Personal Connection: Fashion Consultants build trusting relationships with their clients, strengthening brand image and loyalty.
      VDI Direct Sales

        Companies are increasingly looking to expand into new sales channels that offer a different kind of experience. Customers love new, friendly, and personalized ways to shop, where they feel both safe and confident.

        That’s why legal rules, supported by the Fédération de la Vente Directe (FVD), give the VDI status its two foundations: flexibility and security. Direct sales is the third largest distribution channel in France. It’s a dynamic, on-trend sector that will continue to grow in the coming years. 

        To find the sector that interests you, you can check out the list of direct sales companies.

         

        The 7 benefits of being a VDI?

        Becoming an Independent Home Sales Representative (VDI) offers several advantages:

        • Flexibility: You choose your own hours and work pace, making it easy to balance your professional and personal life.

        • Work from home: No need for an office or daily commuting—you can run your professional life from home.

        • Independence: You are your own boss and manage your business as you wish.

        • Low investment: As long as you have signed a representative contract (and not a buyer-reseller contract), getting started requires very little expense, often just a simple product presentation kit. Good to know: to boost your start with the brand, Elora offers it to you! 

        • Flexible income: Your earnings depend on your sales and can grow as you become more involved with the company you represent.

        • Possibility to combine: The VDI status can be held alongside another job or activity.

        • Training and support: The CFE provides dedicated assistance to self-employed entrepreneurs when they start out and in the early stages of their business. In addition, many companies offer training to help VDI develop their skills. You can also combine VDI and unemployment benefits.


        An activity that adapts to your life

        Independent Home Sales Representatives can truly find a real balance between their personal and professional lives. Working independently, from home or close to home, is a major advantage.

        At Elora, in the thriving ready-to-wear sector, VDIs are not just any salespeople—our Fashion Consultants receive free training to become personal shoppers. With total freedom to organize their schedules, our VDIs can tailor their professional activity to fit their personal needs and, if they wish, combine it with another job.

        A way to supplement your income

        The VDI role can be done full-time or alongside another job. You can combine this income with your salary or other earnings, or even with VDI and unemployment benefits. No worries at year-end—tax and social security declarations are handled automatically through URSSAF when you become self-employed.

        The chance to be your own boss

        This activity lets you take initiative and become independent. But keep in mind, being your own boss isn’t always easy. You’ll need plenty of drive, especially at the start... and a lot of autonomy. The key to success as a VDI is being organized, self-motivated, and showing warmth and empathy.

        Earnings that reflect your commitment

        As a VDI, your income depends directly on the energy and time you invest. If you see this as a simple side income, you’ll earn enough to boost your monthly budget. If you go full-time and build a strong network, your earnings can far exceed those of a salaried sales position.

        No degree or experience required

        Elora makes the role of VDI accessible to everyone, with no requirements for age, qualifications, experience, or background. This status offers anyone with a passion for sales the chance to work in fashion, with an attractive contract. All you need is a love for ready-to-wear and a flair for connecting with people. Plus, a wide range of training is available to VDIs, helping you become a true professional.

        With Elora, starting your new activity is simple and fast

        To become a Fashion Consultant, the process is quick and the paperwork is minimal. All you need—well, almost—is to share your motivation and provide your social security number to the company to get coached and start your new adventure!

        — Elora