For many of us that don’t work in fashion, it comes across as an exciting, glamorous, and chic industry.
Since I have always worked in the corporate world, I also wondered – what does it take to make a brand? How does a store like Anthropolgie source new designers and products? How do designers and stores meet each other?
I had the opportunity to answer those questions and more when I worked as a buyer host for Blueprint – an Asian fashion trade show. A fashion trade show is basically a huge marketplace for emerging and established designers to meet buyers for different retailers (Anthropologie actually was there and I’m sad I didn’t get to meet the buyers!)
I worked with Smeshstyle from Australia (lovely people and they carry such edgy fashion and accessories!) to guide them through the show. The show was in a large hall and each designer had a booth to highlight their wares.
First, the buyers were given a short list of designers whose products may match with their store. I mapped out a route and then set about to have the buyers meet the designers’s newest collection.
Then initial discussions take place as stock, availability, style options, minimum order sizes, and pricing are negotiated.
A few fashion shows may be set up so that the designs may be seen in action. Get your smart phone or camera ready!
Don’t you love how people can have such different styles?
Finally, the buyers and designers may network away at parties or events set up at the trade show. Isn’t everyone a little friendlier when there is great music, conversation, and snacks?
I love those black and white shoes! I go to a lot of fashion trade shows for work, yes, the industry as a whole is very different from what most people perceive it to generally be. Enjoy your week! /Madison
I’ve always wanted to work at a fashion show!
This is actually incredibly interesting – the perfect look-behind-the-scenes of the fashion world.
P.S. The images here are GORGEOUS! I basically want everything pictured! 😛
Very interesting, thanks for sharing with us!
That’s what I always enjoy hearing about. The story behind the story. The process. So thank you for this. It’s really something how they choose the different things that are sold. It’s not easy. I read your email. I’m trying to put together a small list of things I want him to get 🙂
having participated in a trade show, it is very interesting to hear things from another perspective. there’s so much interaction and style and work that goes on!