Fashion Merchandising vs. Fashion Buying

Retail stores in the fashion industry depend on keeping the latest styles in stock. Fashion buying and merchandising are two primary roles in establishing a store full of clothing and accessories that meet the demands of customers. The jobs are related with some similar duties, and some employers may combine the duties into one position, but there are subtle differences in the jobs.

Merchandising Purpose

A fashion merchandiser aims to create a store experience that appeals to customers. She is sometimes involved in selecting the items that are available in the store, but she also focuses on how to set up those items within the store. The way the store is set up affects the flow of customers through the space as well as which pieces are highlighted through prominent display. The goal of a fashion merchandiser is to meet the needs of the customers while increasing sales for the business.

Buying Purpose

The primary focus of the fashion buyer is to choose the clothing and accessories that will go into the store. This duty is sometimes incorporated into the merchandising position, or the two may collaborate to make buying decisions. The buyer stays current on the latest fashion trends to decide what customers might want to buy next. She wades through the various upcoming trends to decide which ones are ideal for that specific store. She orders and tracks the merchandise as it is shipped from the supplier.

Merchandising Skills

Merchandisers need both fashion and business skills to succeed. They need a sense of the target demographic and what they want to see when they walk into the store. She needs an understanding of how to display items to make them more appealing to increase sales. Her fashion knowledge enables her to decide which pieces to highlight through displays. She must have the skills and physical ability to set up store displays for the merchandise. Some aspects of marketing are possibly included in the job description.

Buying Skills

A fashion buyer needs a clear understanding of what type of merchandise the store wants. This requires the analysis of the typical customer, as well as fashion trends. She needs the mathematical skills to buy within the target budget to supply the store with products that fit the customers' desired price range. She works with a variety of people, including store management, merchandisers and the clothing suppliers. Dealing with the suppliers requires the business knowledge to negotiate prices, communicate and ensure the items are shipped on time.


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