BUYING AND MERCHANDISING
These booklets show a clothing range for George Women’s wear Outwear department for AW 2015. Having gained work experience in 2013 at Next Head Office, Outerwear department in Buying, knowledge gained could then be used within this module. A competitive shop report for George and three other competitors (Next, F&F and New look) was carried out comparing different coats.
Trend analysis, different silhouettes, colour, print, price, composition, country of origin and sizes were all considered. A SWOT analysis, shopping experience in store, online and a supplier and ethical trading analysis helped compare George with its competitors. Analysing target consumers and comparing George to its competitors, lead to a road map for recommendations to improve George as a business. Taking all this into account, a range plan was then created.
The range plan booklet consisted of an AW15/16 overview showing key decoration, fastenings, necklines, sleeves, construction and fabric detail. Looking into two trends showing a trend direction, inspiration and influences, trend overview, street style and catwalk inspiration, key shapes and silhouettes, print and colour direction and fabric detail gave a greater depth to show my range plan theme.
For both trends, a ‘ways to wear’ option and ‘wish list’ help inspire consumers along with an in store display, range plan and critical path showing allocations and size range and ratios etc.