Ahead of new Season Launch Weekend, I decided to sit down with some of the Buyers from McElhinneys to find out a little bit about what it's like to be a Buyer, and what key trends we should look out for in the store for Spring Summer 2018.
Name: Amanda McDermott
Department: Luxury Hall
Tell us a little about yourself Amanda...
My name is Amanda McDermott, and I have been part of the McElhinneys Team for over 30 years now! I started working here during my school holidays, and the rest is history. I am originally from Donegal, but I now live with my family in Derry.
What is it like to be a Buyer for McElhinneys?
In a nutshell, VERY BUSY! I have just returned from a hectic 2-week buying period, which involves buying from brands that we already have a relationship with, and some very exciting new brands that will be arriving in-store later this year!
Believe it or not, Christmas 2018 is already bought at this stage, and we buy product anything from 2-12 months before it arrives in-store. But it is hard work - lots of early morning, plane journeys and Excel Sheets!
There are a lot of skills you need when you're a Buyer, including recognizing future trends, communication skills, confidence, the ability to make decisions under pressure, negotiation, working with budgets and you need to be flexible!
What is your favourite Trend for Spring Summer 2018, and why?
For Jewellery, all the long and over-sized earrings are huge at the moment! For example, the Dyrberg-Kern collection this season has been inspired by the gardens of Yves St. Lauren’s summer house in Marrakesh, called The Jardin Majorelle. Also from Pilgrim, the coloured stones and ball detail are on trend and their collection has it all.
In Handbags, colour is in, and lots of little details influenced by the big designers. Branded hardware inspired by Fenti, Leather Tassels influenced by Dior, Circle handles similar to Chloe, and Quilting/Charms inspired by Chanel.
Thanks to Amanda for the great insights into the Luxury Hall Trends!
- Niamh x
