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How to become a Fashion Buyer

Fashion Buyer

Career progression and salary expectations for a Fashion Buyer

1

Junior Fashion Buyer

| Up to £14,000
2

Fashion Buyer

| Up to £30,000
3

Senior Fashion Buyer

| Up to £50,000

The role of a Fashion Buyer

Still searching for that perfect fit? You should be a Fashion Buyer...Fashion Buyers select which products to sell in their stores, taking into consideration factors such as customer buying habits, price, quality and market trends. They need to be seasons ahead when it comes to their choices, and do their best to ensure the brand is as relevant and on-trend as possible.Typical tasks for a Fashion Buyer include:
  • Predicting and analysing fashion trends and reacting to change
  • Liaising with sales, merchandising team and suppliers
  • Visiting trade fairs and researching into new products and suppliers
  • Selecting relevant products
  • Keeping on track with competitor activities
  • Using customer feedback to help shape new product lines
Taking on this role requires you to be constantly ahead of the game when it comes to the latest trends, something which can often be easier said than done. What's hot and what's not in the fashion industry change on an almost daily basis, and therefore it's crucial to ensure you're adaptable, and can work in a fast paced environment.A good knowledge of the fashion industry, not to mention the brand you apply for, will also be essential.Other key skills include:
  • Decision making skills
  • Numeracy skills
  • Analytical approach, especially towards trends
  • Communication and team-working skills
  • Ability to effectively present ideas and write reports
"I'd worked for a few fashion brands as a Sales Assistant, but I was always more interested in trying to influence what was on-the-rack. When I had the opportunity to move into buying I jumped at the chance. I love going to work everyday passing stores and knowing that the outfit in the shop window is the highest seller this week is because of me. You get to travel, and meet some amazing people. Oh, and you get to buy clothes all day. For someone who love fashion, that's pretty much as good as it gets."

Get qualified as a Fashion Buyer

All Fashion Buyer jobs
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