# data[].attributes.body
TRAVELLING

EXPLORING

SEPARATING WORK AND HOME LIFE

PASSION

# data[].attributes.body
SIDE PASSION

FAMILY BUSINESS

PROPERTY OWNERS

POSSIBLE NEW DEGREE IN INTERIOR DESIGN

FATHER IS PAINTER/DECORATOR

# data[].attributes.body
DREAM JOB

PASSION

4 YEARS OF EDUCATION

# data[].attributes.body
CONNECTIONS

SUPPORT GROUP

HELP GROWTH

# data[].attributes.headline
The step-by-step guide to buying a home | Property blog

# data[].attributes.subject
The step-by-step guide to buying a home | Property blog

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Are you ready to put your moving plans into action? Our handy guide will take you through the process of buying a house, from working out your budget to making an offer, exchanging contracts and moving in. Take the first step towards your next move, today. Here's how to get started...

Preparing to sell your home

If you're not a first-time buyer, selling your home before you start searching for your next property will put you in a strong position as a buyer.

You can read our step-by-step guide to selling your home here.

Saving for a deposit

When you're saving for a deposit, it's really helpful to plan your monthly spending budget, and aim to save a regular sum each month.

Tax-efficient savings accounts like an Individual Savings Accounts (ISA) or a Lifetime Individual Savings Account (LISA) can maximise your returns - you can get substantial bonuses if you're a first-time buyer. You must be 18 or over, but under 40 to open a Lifetime ISA.

Getting mortgage ready

You'll want your credit report to be in the best possible shape before a lender looks at it. Credit reports provide an insight into your payment behaviour - and lenders use them as part of their decision-making process. It's a good idea to check your credit record, just in case there are any errors which could affect your score. Checking your own rating is viewed as a soft check and won't impact your score.

You'll also need to collect tons of paperwork to back up your mortgage application. You're going to need a passport, at least three months' worth of bank statements and pay slips (or two years' worth of audited accounts if you are self-employed). Most lenders also want you to have at least one utility bill in your name at your current address, and you should be on the Electoral Roll.

READ MORE: Sorting out your finances

Work out your budget

Buying a property is a big step involving a substantial long-term financial commitment, so really consider what you can afford. You'll need to take into account the assets you have - like savings - as well as the money that's coming in and going out.

READ MORE: Working out what you can afford

Find out how much you can borrow with a mortgage

Every lender has different ways of calculating how much they'll lend to you, or even whether they'll lend to you at all. Your income, the size of your deposit, your regular expenditure, and your credit rating will be taken into consideration. You can learn more here about how lenders determine affordability for a mortgage.

Or, you can start by getting a rough idea of how much you could borrow by using our mortgage calculator.

Apply for a Mortgage in Principle

A Mortgage in Principle is the next step that can make a big difference when it comes to searching, viewing, and offering on a home.

A Mortgage in Principle is also known as an Agreement in Principle, Decision in Principle, Mortgage Agreement in Principle, or a Mortgage Promise. A Mortgage in Principle, or MIP for short, is a personalised document confirming an amount of money which a lender believes they would be able to lend you, based on the information you've shared at this stage. And even though it isn't a legal requirement, increasingly estate agents will ask that you have one.

A Mortgage in Principle is specific to you and, together with your deposit, it can give you an indication of the property price range you can search within. So you can search for your new home with more confidence. You can usually get a MIP within 24 hours, and it's normally valid for up to 90 days, but different lenders criteria and rules will differ.
READ MORE: Getting a Mortgage in Principle
Research where you want to live

Take some time to research and get to know your chosen area. If you can, make sure you walk around the neighbourhood so you can get a sense of what it'll be like to live there. That way, you can also find out how long it will take you to get to the nearest station, supermarket, or to do the school run.

If you don't think you can afford the home you want in your top choice postcodes, try looking a little further along the same train, Tube, or tram line. You could find a better value home in return for a slightly longer commute.

You can use our Draw a Search feature to set the area you'd be open to look at moving to, and if you expand your chosen area on the map, you'll have even more properties to choose from.

Whether you're comparing different locations, exploring a range of options within your budget, or managing your viewings, using Property Lists to organise your saved properties can make it easier to keep track of your top choices.

Start home-hunting

Ensuring you're the first to find out about new properties, or even price reductions, is essential to landing your dream home. The easiest way to stay on top of what's coming to market, in the areas you're most interested in, is to set up property alerts.

It's also worth visiting local estate agents in person to register your interest in the area. Agents will be more likely to remember you if you've met, and will bear you in mind when they get new instructions.

Draw up a list of important questions (how long is the property's lease, have the owners found a place to move to yet, how long has it been on the market?) so you don't forget to ask these things when you go and view properties.

Before deciding how much to offer, check how much homes in the area have recently sold for.

READ MORE: Getting the most out of viewings

Making an offer

Knowing your budget ceiling is crucial so decide your maximum limit from the start. When you're ready to make an offer to the estate agent selling the home, it's a good idea to also tell them a bit about you. For example, if you're a chain-free first-time buyer with a Mortgage in Principle, make this clear so the owner of the home will know you're ready to proceed.

READ MORE: Making an offer on a property

Arranging a mortgage

Now you'll need to move fast - the seller will want to see progress so try to avoid any unnecessary delays in getting the surveys and other legal work done. Complete the mortgage lender's application form and send them the documents they require - this will include proof of your ID, evidence of your earnings, proof of your address over the last few months and your bank statements, so have these ready.

READ MORE: Submitting your mortgage application

Lender's valuation and surveys

The lender will arrange for a qualified surveyor to inspect the property you're looking to buy and check its value. As well as make sure that it's a property they'll lend against.

READ MORE: What to expect from the lender's valuation

Want more peace of mind when it comes to the condition of your property? There are three levels of survey - a basic condition report, a standard homebuyer's report, the most popular option, or an in-depth building survey which is usually reserved for very run down or very unusual properties.

If a survey uncovers problems you may be able to negotiate a price cut to offset some or all of the cost of the work.

Hire a solicitor or conveyancer

Conveyancing is the process undertaken by the buyer's and seller's solicitors of transferring the legal ownership of property or land from one person to another. Once you've had your offer accepted, inform your solicitor so they can start studying the lease, ordering council searches, and drawing up contracts.

Exchanging contracts

Once the survey and searches have come through and your mortgage is approved you will be ready to exchange contracts and put down a non-refundable deposit. This will all be arranged by your solicitor.

Preparing to move

You'll need to arrange to redirect your mail to your new home, inform your utility companies that you are leaving your old home, arrange home insurance, and set up your landline and broadband services.

You'll also need to arrange for a removal company or van hire. A very thorough declutter at this stage will make life easier during and after the move!

Stamp duty tax is payable in England and Northern Ireland within two weeks of completing your sale. Your solicitor should handle the paperwork for you. You can work out how much you'll need to pay by using our stamp duty calculator. There are also equivalent taxes payable in Scotland and Wales.

Completing the sale

There's very little you can do on completion day other than drink endless cups of tea and anxiously await the call from your estate agent letting you know that the funds have gone through, and you can finally collect the keys to your new home. You're then ready to move in!

Moving Day

Pack everything you'll need for your first night or two, including bedding, and keep these bags apart from the rest of your stuff. That way you won't have to waste time searching for a toothbrush lost somewhere in a mountain of boxes.

Label your other boxes with which room you want them to go in to try and keep things in some sort of order.

Book a supermarket delivery for the next day - and get unpacking.

READ MORE: The step-by-step guide to selling your home

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The step-by-step guide to buying a home | Property blog

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Buying a home? If you're buying your first home, our guide takes you through the things you need to buy a house.

# data[].attributes.headline
Making an offer: how to negotiate when buying a home | Foxtons

# data[].attributes.subject
Making an offer: how to negotiate when buying a home | Foxtons

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
You've found a property that feels like home. It's the right location, the right size... you're ready to make an offer but you really want to get this process right. Here's what you can do.

This blog includes tips on how to calculate the offer price, making your offer stronger without giving more money, etc. But if you take any one thing out of it, it'll probably be to prepare. The more you prepare, the more collected you are, so you can make a decision you're proud of. The more you prepare, the more serious you look, so the seller can trust you'll do your part efficiently and the estate agent can recommend you as the best buyer.

Step one: know what you can offer

If you haven't already, it's important that you speak to a mortgage adviser. You'll want them to prepare a mortgage agreement in principal (AIP), which will calculate what mortgage and interest rate you can afford. Not only will this be important in making an offer, but you can also use this as evidence of your funds for a vendor.

We recommend our partner, Alexander Hall, who work with all lenders, large and small, to deliver a huge range of mortgage options for you. They can also help you gather the paperwork, submit the application and liaise with lenders, supporting you every step of the way.

We also recommend you speak to a solicitor prior to making your offer. You'll want to have plenty of time to find the best solicitor for your situation, so they can begin their work making enquiries as soon as possible after your offer has been accepted. We recommend you contact Conveyan who will help you ensure you're Buyer Ready.

What's in an offer?

There are multiple strategies for putting in an offer on a house. You might start right out with your real offer to avoid haggling. You might, otherwise, start with a lower offer to give yourself room in negotiations to compromise without topping out your budget. Buyers sometimes try 5-10% below the asking price as a first offer. We only recommend you remain realistic with your offer.

Whatever your strategy, you'll want to make a list of all the factors driving the price. This will be useful, not just in your first offer, but also if negotiations get going. Consider:

The housing market. Is it a buyers' or sellers' market? Do you have the upper hand?

How keen is the vendor? Are they in a property chain and need a sale ASAP to free up their funds? Are they just testing the waters and only selling if a price tempts them?

How keen are you? In the beginning, this can influence how much you want to risk on things like low bids. You may also fall more in love with a property the more you negotiate over it.

The value. Look into other homes of similar size in the area to see how fair, low or inflated the asking price is. Properties under offer are useful here, as they can give a better indication of value than sold properties, which reflect an earlier market.

Who's interested? If you're first through the door, you think the asking price is fair and you know offers will pile in by the weekend, you might put in an offer at the asking price. If it's been on the market for a while without a bite, you might have luck with a lower offer. You might even offer slightly over the asking price and ask for no further viewings, on the condition that you hit agreed milestones along the way.

A speedy timeline. Everyone wants to avoid negotiations that take so long they fall apart. If you can make the process quicker - show proof of your deposit, proof of your mortgage approved in principal/any further funding, have a fully instructed solicitor ready, if your own home is on the market/sold, if you have the necessary documents (including proof of ID and address) ready to go - that's all worth something. The seller may accept your lower bid over a higher bid from a less prepared buyer.

The deposit. especially if you're thinking of bidding low, consider how much cash you can put down upfront. Padding out your deposit can sway an uncertain seller.

What work it needs. How old is the boiler? How old is the roof? If there is work needed, is it urgent or can it wait? Big repairs eat into your budget for your new home, so are they worth it?

How to make an offer

In the offer letter (or email), you'll obviously want the amount your willing to pay. Here's what else you can include:

Which factors led you to that amount: what your research of the area found, what you estimate any repairs would cost, how quick the timeline will be, and whatever else you considered when coming up with your offer.

Your proposed move-in date

What work needs to be done

If you have a mortgage agreed in principal/solicitor in place

The amount in your deposit

Contingencies: conditions that, if not met, mean you can back out of the deal without penalty. They include 'subject to survey', where the offer is dependent on what's discovered in a survey you'll arrange; 'subject to contract', which means that the legal side of things (the sale contract) has to be satisfactory to you and your legal advisor; and 'taking the property off the market', which is often a request to stop new viewings while good progress is being made.

Always, always send your offer in writing (yes, an email is considered 'in writing'). You need written proof of the full, complete offer to avoid confusion down the line.

The second offer (and third)

Don't be discouraged if the first offer isn't accepted, it happens a lot. Do ask your estate agent why, and get as much information as you can. That way, you aren't blindly offering more money, when that might not be why it was rejected.

Let's say the seller rejected your offer because of your suggested timeframe. You ask for more information, and you find the sticking point is that you've asked for the 'subject to survey' contingency. Keep asking. You may discover you're competing with a cash buyer that doesn't want a survey and could get a sale through quicker. When you know the whole story, you'll know whether to walk away, increase your price or find a surveyor who can visit the property soon.

After you've found the reasons behind the rejection, it's time to figure out what you're going to do. Go back to your list of factors and think about what this property is worth - if you want to make a second offer. When you get to making the second offer, you may want to try and ask what you'd get in return for compromising, especially if you're increasing your price.

If the second offer is rejected too, why not ask for them to put up a counter offer, to see where they're coming from? You might not be able to come to an agreement with the seller. It happens and it is upsetting. But if it does happen, take the positives - you've got a much clearer image of what you want in a new home, a lot of research on the area and market, and experience putting in offers. Talk to your agent and get back out there, perhaps the perfect home is just one more viewing away.

Next steps

If, on the other hand, your offer is accepted, it's essential that you secure a solicitor (if you haven't done so already!) A good solicitor can make all the difference - resulting in a swift and smooth purchase.

The market is currently awash with buyers, so we would recommend sourcing a solicitor prior to making an offer to ensure that you're ahead of the competition.

Whilst there are plenty of great solicitors out there, we recommend Conveyan - Foxtons panel of specialist solicitors. Conveyan work with a number of independent law firms, all of whom have been invited to join the panel based on their previous performance on Foxtons transactions. With a wealth of experience across a number of firms, you'll always have the necessary expertise at hand. You'll also be kept in the loop with regular updates, 24/7 access to case tracking via the Conveyan portal, as well as a dedicated solicitor who'll be your point of contact throughout the process.

All the firms on the Conveyan panel also operate on a no-move, no-fee basis, so if there are any hiccups along the way and you fail to reach an exchange, you wouldn't be saddled with legal fees.

The other thing you'll need to do is arrange a survey of the property. It is important to approach this major life investment with all the facts, and a good surveyor will help get you there. We partner with Arnold & Baldwin, property surveyors who provide expert insight, regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). They give the honest third-party information that you can use to make decisions, avoid expensive surprises and have confidence in your offer price.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Making an offer: how to negotiate when buying a home | Foxtons

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Making an offer: how to negotiate when buying a home. Photo: signing an offer

# data[].attributes.headline
How rising interest rates affect buyers, landlords and homeowners | Foxtons

# data[].attributes.subject
How rising interest rates affect buyers, landlords and homeowners | Foxtons

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Big news in the Capital: we've reached the 6th consecutive rate increase to combat rising inflation. What should buyers, homeowners and landlords do? Here are the facts, the predictions and things to consider from the experts at Foxtons and Alexander Hall.

The story so far

The base rate has risen to 1.75% to kerb inflation, which the Bank of England predicts, "will hit 13% later this year" ( Bank of England). It is the largest increase in 27 years, and it might seem intimidating for anyone with a mortgage or who has plans to apply for one.

The first thing to remember is that the base rate is still at a historic low. During the first increase, we published an article, Interest Rates are likely to rise, but don't panic, which provided some context, "in the 1980s, the base rate ranged between 10% and 15%. Rates decreased gradually into the single digits in the 1990s, and then, with the global recession in 2008, the [Bank of England] had its most sudden drop - all the way down to 2.0%."

Foxtons is partnered with mortgage broker Alexander Hall, and they told us, "Those with tracker or variable rate mortgages will see immediate increases in their payments. There will also be a notable impact on Help to Buy affordability and Buy to Let rental calculations, due to higher rates of stress testing. It is vital that buyers and landlords are speaking to a trusted mortgage advisor on this. At Alexander Hall, we're helping buyers ensure all affordability requirements have been met and keeping them notified of any changes as they arise."

Information for your situation:

First-time buyer | Buyer | Landlord in a Buy to Let purchase | Landlord | Homeowner

As we've discussed in our article, UPDATE: Help to Buy - act before October, the Help to Buy scheme is ending quite soon. If you've been planning to buy through this scheme, it's time to act.

Read more information about the scheme, or try the Help to Buy Calculator for yourself.

As the team at Alexander Hall said, the base rate may increase your monthly repayments, and in doing so, may affect the affordability of the mortgage you're applying for. It's important that:

1. You can meet the affordability requirements

2. You have enough time to pass any stress testing before the Help to Buy deadline

We can help you beat the deadline for Help to Buy. View available London New Builds to get your property search started, and get in touch with Alexander Hall to get your mortgage application underway. We'll hold a Help to Buy Event in September, where you can get your questions answered by experts and explore new developments. Register your interest in Help to Buy on My Foxtons, and we'll be sure to send along the details of the event.

Our New Homes Managers selected some of our great Help to Buy properties - available now. Click your favourite to see its details and book a viewing:

Or, you can browse homes for sale with Help to Buy.

Do you continue to pay rent each month or take the leap and buy? With the base rate on the rise, this question may be weighing on those who've been considering a move. However, monthly outgoings will still likely be less on a mortgage than renting, and in, say, 35 years' time, you'll own a property with no mortgage to pay. If homeownership is your goal, you don't have to put it on hold.

Homeowners and landlords who have multiple years left on their fixed rate (which won't change with the base rate increase) are probably breathing a sigh of relief right now. But what if you're reaching the end of your fixed period? Also, a number of lenders increased their standard variable rates (SVRs) in line with the previous base rates and may be preparing to do so again. If you're on your lender's SVR, should you consider moving to a fixed rate?

There are some advantages to getting a fixed rate now. There are further Bank of England meetings in September, November and December, with some market forecasts expecting further increases to the base rate by the end of the year. Securing a fixed rate now, ahead of potential further increases, can give you assurance over your payments for the next two, three, five, seven or ten years. It may save you a significant sum of money per month if you're currently on your lender's SVR. A fixed rate can, however, be a challenge if you choose to sell the property in the short term, as you'll need to pay early repayment charges.

Try your new interest rate against the Alexander Hall mortgage repayment calculator here.

If you're considering Buy to Let

Rental demand is high in London. If you're considering using a Buy to Let mortgage for your next investment property, this base rate increase may affect you too. It's important to be prepared.

The base rate increase may raise the rate of your monthly repayments, and in doing so, may affect the affordability of the mortgage you're applying for. Before you submit that application, you need to be sure you'll be able to afford the monthly repayments.

It's important to have a specialist mortgage adviser who understands Buy to Let mortgages thoroughly, like the Specialist Lending Team at Alexander Hall. This team of experts will help you produce a strong application for the most suitable mortgage for you situation.

You can do this.

Buyers, homeowners and landlords can still achieve their property goals. The increased rate is still comparatively low, and there's help available to ensure your mortgage application's success. If you want insight from Foxtons or Alexander Hall, get in touch:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How rising interest rates affect buyers, landlords and homeowners | Foxtons

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
How rising interest rates affect buyers, landlords and homeowners. Read how rising interest rates affect first-time buyers, buy to let landlords and London's homeowners.

# data[].attributes.headline
The Best Fashion Buying and Merchandising Jobs Around the World

# data[].attributes.subject
The Best Fashion Buying and Merchandising Jobs Around the World

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Want the best buying and merchandising job opportunities delivered to your inbox first? Click here to set up a job alert on BoF. Buying and Merchandising Jobs in New York City
LONDON, United Kingdom -The role of buyers and merchandisers has been transformed by the ever-evolving demands on designers and the speed at which collections are produced. Alongside the busy buying calendar and the time management skills it demands, buyers and merchandisers must be competent in customer profiling, trend forecasting and data analysis, requiring an equal balance of both left and right-brain capacities.

Buying and merchandising positions are also some of the more high profile commercial positions within the industry, and include high-level access to designers and creatives as well as close interactions with brands and stores. The career path is a favourite among fashion school applicants and graduates. On BoF Careers, there are more than 250 roles across 15 countries available to emerging and experienced buyers and merchandisers.

In the US, BoF has more than 130 positions available on both the East and West Coast. In New York, where BoF Careers has 70 career opportunities, Gap has an entry-level merchandise assistant role for the boys division, while Ermenegildo Zegna Group seeks an associate buyer.

Director, Merchandising, Story - New York, United States

Special Orders Assistant, Moda Operandi - New York, United States

Assistant Buyer, Accessories, Calvin Klein - New York, United States
Buying and Merchandising Jobs in the Western United States
Integrated Merchant, Beauty, Macy's - New York, United States

Associate Buyer Handbags, Coach - New York, United States

In San Francisco, The RealReal and Banana Republic seek directors in merchandising for their site and women's denim, outerwear and suiting respectively.

Men's Buyer, Gap - San Francisco, United States

Merchandising Manager, Handbags, Vince - Los Angeles, United States

Director, Site Merchandising, The RealReal - San Francisco, United States
Buying and Merchandising Jobs in the United Kingdom
Assistant Merchant, Women's Fashion, Lucky Brand - Los Angeles, United States

Senior Director - E-Commerce Merchandising, Banana Republic - San Francisco, United States

With over 30 vacancies in the UK, London is the location for those starting out in the field, with a merchandising assistant role at Jimmy Choo and a PVH buying admin assistant role, while Farfetch-owned Browns seeks various buying administration assistants.

Merchandising Manager, Footwear, Alexander McQueen - London, United Kingdom.

Menswear Buyer, Tommy Hilfiger - London, United Kingdom

Merchandising Manager, Burberry - London, United Kingdom
Buying and Merchandising Jobs in Western Europe
Womenswear Buyer, Omnes - London, United Kingdom

Site Merchandising Manager, E-Commerce, Ralph Lauren - London, United Kingdom

There are 75 roles in Europe, with opportunities in luxury brands including Saint Laurent's men's ready-to-wear merchandising coordinator in Paris, while Coach-owned Stuart Weitzman has an opening for a retail merchandising coordinator in Milan.

Strategic Merchandise Planning Manager, Zalando - Berlin, Germany

Assistant Buyer, Mytheresa - Munich, Germany

Buyer, Vestiaire Collective - Paris, France
Buying and Merchandising Jobs in Rest of World
Shoes Buyer & Merchandiser, Suitsupply - Amsterdam, Netherlands

Fashion Buyer Zara Woman, Zara - La Coruna, Spain

Across the rest of world, there are buying and merchandising positions in locations including Hong Kong, Australia, India and Canada.

Merchandising Manager, Women's Universe, Louis Vuitton - Hong Kong

Women's Merchandising Manager, Salvatore Ferragamo - Seoul, Republic of Korea
Whether looking at home or abroad, for entry-level roles or executive positions, find the best buying and merchandising available in design today at BoF Careers:
Retail Buyer, Zimmermann - Sydney, Australia

Senior Merchandiser, Woven & Knit Apparel, Ralph Lauren - Bangalore, India.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Best Fashion Buying and Merchandising Jobs Around the World

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Take a look at the 200+ global buying and merchandising roles on BoF Careers, from Zalando in Berlin to Louis Vuitton in Hong Kong.

# data[].attributes.headline
How to Futureproof Your Career in Buying

# data[].attributes.subject
How to Futureproof Your Career in Buying

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
LONDON, United Kingdom - When the initial stages of lockdown spread through Europe at the tail-end of the Autumn/Winter 2020 season, buyers began to experience the precautionary health and safety measures and digital solutions put in place to maintain momentum in an increasingly grounded industry.

"We first started experiencing it with empty showrooms - facemasks on and hand sanitiser offered. It felt surreal," recalled Browns Buying Director Ida Petersson in a BoF Live event last week. "We had to do the last bit of buying virtually. At that point, nobody was prepared for it, [but] at least we had seen the product on catwalks. We're preparing for a second round of this, where we haven't physically seen the product at all."

Ida Petersson, director of men's and womenswear buying at Browns | Source: Shutterstock

In a discussion on the lessons she has learned as a result of the crisis, Petersson offered her expectations for the seasons ahead and the skills she believes will be critical for success. Now, BoF shares five key takeaways.
Adapt to Digital Touchpoints
In terms of a skillset for a buyer, being able to visualise things is more important than ever. As a buyer, you're hoping for a 360 view, for close-ups - fabric swashes, where possible. The reality is, in some cases, we're not even going to get models and will just receive CAD drawings. If someone can digitally break the touch/feel barrier, that will change buying forever.

We are buying into the unknown. We have to be brave.

We have already used Instagram as a discovery tool to pick up designers who are further away. You can find ways around sampling and other considerations, but there is an element of trust involved in this process.

There has been a fast-forward in innovation. Shanghai Fashion Week really set the tone and the innovation around technology excites me. I'm excited about seeing people dream big in lockdown but be realistic in what they can do.
Nurture Relationships with Emerging Designers
The relationship between buyers and emerging brands is now more important than ever. It's time for us all to consider how we want to work and what makes sense for our businesses.

If you believe in this industry, you need to support younger, emerging designers. We have to think bigger than the bottom line. Major brands are in a different situation. They mostly have hefty cashflows and things to fall back on.

It is not the time to abuse the balance and dynamic of these relationships. Emerging talent really is the future of our industry. If we don't support the young talent, they could not be there tomorrow. We have a real responsibility and I urge buyers not to forget this. In my experience, the best strategy in a crisis is actually focusing on creativity, not forgetting it.
Take Calculated Risks
Digging deep and taking risks is still critical. Now is the time to implement some disruptive thinking. My favourite thing is when someone on my team comes up to me and says, "let's just change the world."

Don't be afraid to try and fail. We have to try in order to innovate - we have to push forwards. You can't go anywhere without risk. Understanding what you're up against but taking those leaps of faith is how you make things happen. One thing at a time, though - I still love a spreadsheet.

You can set your strategy, but it has to be able to pivot.

We buy six to eight months in advance anyway, but now we are buying into the unknown. We have to be brave about what we think the future will be. What will work and what won't. Not where the world will be - who knows? But people will still buy.
Excel in Communication
What has hit me is the impact on some of the big brands - massive businesses - that are really struggling in this crisis. We have an ongoing dialogue with these brands about what they want to achieve and what we can do to help. We are finding solutions together and it's been a real learning curve.

Those check-ins, seeing how everyone is doing, connecting randomly over nothing - all of it is so important. Sharing is key but it's also crucial to take this time to look internally. We are examining, "how are we doing things?" "Are there new things that can be done?" I've seen some amazing changes coming through the team.

Learn how to deliver bad news constructively to anyone you do business with, internally or externally, in a way you would hope to receive it. Be honest and clear about what you are facing and try to share as much with your team as possible. We need good communicators. There are so many forums, panels of buyers, suppliers and other industry players coming together to share their experiences. It's powerful to share the good and the bad.
Learn to Be Flexible
While numerical, analytical qualities have always been important to buying, the need for flexibility is becoming increasingly important. You can set your strategy, but it has to be able to pivot. It's important to always look to new opportunities, but also looking to engage and involve the wider team within that. Being calm under pressure is also crucial.

The crisis means we can finally try to find a balance between work and life. Not just for myself - for my team. Buying runs on an exhausting cycle and it's easy for people to do it for ten years and then burn out. [But] experience is key, so having people walk away because they're burned out is not good. When we eventually go back, working from home will be more viable, but we will all need to be as flexible and collaborative as possible to ensure we achieve everything we want to.
The Best Buying Jobs on BoF Careers:
Montblanc Senior Buyer, Richemont - Hamburg, Germany

Buyer, Carolina Herrera - New York, United States

Team Lead Buying Menswear - Zalando Lounge, Zalando - Berlin, Germany

Assistant Buyer, Maternity, Gap - San Francisco, United States

Shoes Buyer & Merchandiser, Suitsupply - Amsterdam, Netherlands

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How to Futureproof Your Career in Buying

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
LONDON, United Kingdom - When the initial stages of lockdown spread through Europe at the tail-end of the Autumn/Winter 2020 season, buyers began to experience the precautionary health and safety measures and digital solutions put in place to maintain momentum in an increasingly grounded industry.

# data[].attributes.headline
Here's Who Is Hiring in Buying and Merchandising

# data[].attributes.subject
Here's Who Is Hiring in Buying and Merchandising

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
BoF Careers has collated the most exciting job opportunities in buying and merchandising currently featured on our platform.

Spanning functional expertise and seniority you can browse live opportunities from Bottega Veneta, MyTheresa, Tory Burch, Saint Laurent and 30+ of fashion's most prestigious employers below.

The nature of buying and merchandising roles took on significant reimagining during the pandemic, considering shows and buying appointments came to a halt, as well as any in-person collaboration or warehouse visits, with buying and merchandising professionals developing greater dependence and proficency with virtual technologies and digital showrooms. However, marrying these hard skills with soft skills is increasingly essential post-pandemic.

"While numerical, analytical qualities have always been important to buying, the need for flexibility is becoming increasingly important. You can set your strategy, but it has to be able to pivot. It's important to always look to new opportunities, but also looking to engage and involve the wider team within that. Being calm under pressure is also crucial," Ida Petersson, buying director for Browns Fashion, told BoF last year.

Connecting you to 3,100+ live job opportunities and over 300 of the fashion industry's leading employers, BoF Careers Week 2021 is designed to transform your career trajectory. Take your next step today at businessoffashion.com/careers.
United Kingdom
Burberry - Assistant Merchandiser

Founded in 1856, Burberry is a quintessentially British brand, with outerwear at its core. Based in London, under the creative direction of Riccardo Tisci, Burberry combines its heritage of innovation and craftsmanship in its design of womenswear, menswear, childrenswear, accessories and beauty. The company has approximately 10,000 employees globally.

Braveheart International Limited - Senior Buyer and Wholesale Sales and Merchandising Executive Roles

Braveheart is a sustainable fashion brand that launched in 2020, with ambitions to build awareness and customer acquisition across UK and Europe.

Hush - Buyer, Allocator and Merchandising Admin Assistant

Founded in 2003, Hush is a fashion and lifestyle brand with products across womenswear, loungewear and accessories. Hush has an international team of more than 100 employees.

Koibird - Buying Admin Assistant

Established in 2017, Koibird is a concept store born out of the desire to capture the exoticism of travel in a retail experience, with a mix of high-end ready-to-wear and accessories from emerging designers from around the globe.

Mytheresa - Kidswear and Menswear Buyer

Mytheresa store, a leading bricks-and-mortar fashion destination in Munich, launched Mytheresa online in 2006. The retailer offers a curated edit of over 200 coveted international designers delivered to more than 133 countries.

Stella McCartney - RTW Merchandiser

The ethical fashion pioneer launched her namesake luxury fashion house in 2001. A lifelong vegetarian, McCartmey has never used leather, feathers, skin or fur in any of her designs. An LVMH-backed label since 2019, the brand's core collections include women's ready-to-wear, accessories, lingerie, eyewear, fragrance and kids.

Strathberry - Merchandiser

Strathberry is an Edinburgh-based luxury label offering leather goods made from the high quality materials and handcrafted in Spain. After Meghan Markle wore a product of Strathberry's in 2017, sales rose 400 percent.

Theory - Buying Admin Assistant and Junior Planner Roles

Launched in 1997 by Andrew Rosen, The Fast Retailing Group aquired Theory in 2004, leading to the brand's global expansion to operate over 200 stores worldwide. The brand is also stocked at Selfridges and Net-a-Porter.

Tomorrow - Product Merchandiser

Launched in 2008, Tomorrow is a multi-service business accelerator, helps fashion brands develop and achieve sustainable growth through consultancy, sales and distribution, investment, product development, and operations. Partners include A-Cold Wall*, Ambush, Pyer Moss, Marni and more.

Initially inspired by workwear and military clothing, the label YMC was founded in 1995 by Fraser Moss and Jimmy Collins. Today, the label has three standalone London stores in Shoreditch, Soho and Bloomsbury with another outlet in Seoul.
Europe
Bottega Veneta - Purchasing Specialist in Italy's Montebello Vicentino

Founded in 1966, rooted in artisanal Italian craft, Bottega Veneta built a renowned reputation on its refined aesthetic, signature leather weave and crosshatch design. Helmed by CEO Bartolomeo Rongone since 2019, the brand offers menswear, womenswear, accessories and homeware, designed by creative director Daniel Lee.

Hugo Boss - Buyer, Senior Buyer & Allocation Manager and Operations Planning Knitwear in Stuttgart and Coldrerio

Hugo Boss is one of the leading companies in the upper premium segment of the global apparel market and employs over 13,000 people worldwide. Known for its smart men's suits, the company is aiming to grow its e-commerce business to account for 25 to 30 percent of sales by 2025.

MyTheresa - 4 Buyer and Merchandise Planner Roles in Munich

Offering an edit of more than 200 global designers, delivering to over 133 countries, the retailer Mytheresa has grown from its bricks-and-mortar location in Munich into a global shopping destination via Mytheresa.com.

PVH - Allocator Role in Düsseldorf

PVH is one of the world's largest fashion companies, owning brands including Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger. Over its 140-year history, the company has come to employ over 30,000 associates and connects with consumers in over 40 countries.

Saint Laurent - 3 Merchandising Roles in Paris

Founded in 1961, Yves Saint Laurent was the first couture house to introduce the concept of luxury prêt-à-porter. In 1999, Kering acquired the label - today, under the creative direction of Anthony Vaccarello. Saint Laurent collections include women's and men's ready-to-wear, shoes, handbags, small leather goods, jewelry, scarves, ties and eyewear.

Scotch & Soda - Merchandise Allocator

Initially founded in the 80s, the Amsterdam-based fashion brand Scotch & Soda was re-launched in Spring/Summer 2002 with three new owners. Offering men's and women's collections, children's apparel, perfumes and denim collections, Scotch & Soda operates over 100 stores worldwide and has more than 7,000 other points of sale.

Totême is a fashion and lifestyle brand established in 2014 by Elin Kling and Karl Lindman in Stockholm, the brand stands for Scandinavian style; simplicity with an edge for the modern woman, with collections covering ready-to-wear, denim and accessories.

Zalando - 30+ Buying and Merchandise Planner Roles

Zalando is Europe's leading online platform for fashion, offering a broad assortment from over 4,500 international brands across 23 countries. Founded in Berlin in 2008, the e-tailer offers clothing, footwear, accessories, and beauty from international brands ranging from world famous names to local labels.
North America
Athleta - 3 Buyer and Merchandiser Roles

Athleta - a certified B Corporation - is a premium fitness & lifestyle brand, creating performance apparel for women and girls. The label is owned by Gap Inc and was founded in 1998.

Banana Republic - 15 Planner and Merchandiser Roles

Banana Republic is a global apparel and accessories brand offering clothing, eyewear, fragrances, jewellery, shoes and handbags. Founded in San Francisco, Banana Republic is a division of specialty retailer, Gap Inc. and has more than 750 company-operated and franchise retail locations worldwide and online.

Chico's - 7 Merchandiser and Merchant Roles

Founded in 1983, Chico's FAS operates three brands - Chico's, White House Black Market and Soma. Selling women's apparel, accessories and related products, the brands have over 1,300 boutiques and outlets in the United States, as well as digital presence for each brand.

Coach - Senior Director of Demand Planning and Manager, Lifestyle Buying Lead

Coach was founded in 1941 as a family-run workshop. Today, Coach is a leading premium handbags and accessories brand owned by parent company Tapestry and is under the direction of British-born designer Stuart Vevers.

Dôen - Merchandising and Planning Intern in California

Dôen is a Los Angeles-based womenswear line sold through its own e-commerce site and retailers including Net-a-Porter. Founded by sisters Margaret and Katherine Kleveland in 2015 in Santa Barbara, the label creates womenswear, kidswear, loungewear, accessories and footwear.

Dolls Kill - Senior Merchandise Planner in San Francisco

Dolls Killis a fashion brand with head offices in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Founded in 2011 within rave and EDM subcultures, offering platform shoes, fishnet unitards and other festival-style pieces, today the brand has over 5 million social media followers and raised a total capital of over $60 million.

Gap - 10+ Buying, Planner and Merchandising Roles

Founded in San Francisco in 1969, Gap's collections are designed to build the foundation of modern wardrobes through every stage of life with apparel and accessories for adult men and women, in addition to GapKids, babyGap, GapMaternity, GapBody, and GapFit collections.

Gap Inc. - Merchandising and Inventory Management Internship Roles

Launched in 1969, Gap Inc. is the parent company and retailer to Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic and Athleta. The business operates in more than 90 countries.

Hugo Boss - Allocator and Administrator Roles in New York and Ontario

A leading company in the upper premium segment, Hugo Boss employs more than 13,000 people across the globe. The company is looking to grow its e-commerce business to account for 25 to 30 percent of sales by 2025.

Kate Spade - Assistant Buyer

Since its launch in 1993, originally as an accessories brand, Kate Spade New York today also offers clothing, shoes, jewellery and more. The brand is owned by Tapestry with head offices in New York.

Kirna Zabête - Planning & Allocation Manager in New York

Kirna Zabête is a luxury women's retailer with four stores across the United States, as well as an e-commerce shop, featuring the likes of Balenciaga, Dior, Celine and Gucci. The retailer was founded in 1999 by Beth Buccini.

Lunya - Director of Merchandising and Associate Planner Roles

Direct-to-consumer brand Lunya Company was founded by Ashley Merrill in 2012. The brand's offering includes sleepwear and loungewear.

Moose Knuckles - Merchandise Planner in New York

Founded in 2009, Canadian luxury outerwear brand Moose Knuckles has men's and womenswear collections and is available in 25 countries. The brand employs more than 200 Canadians - including 90 skilled technicians - in the design, quality maintenance and production. The brand announced this year it will go fur-free by 2022.

Old Navy - 14 Merchandiser and Planner Roles

In 1994, Old Navy opened its first store in the US. Today, the Gap Inc-owned company operates over 1,100 stores worldwide.

Ten Thousand - Inventory Planning Associate and VP, Planning & Supply Chain in New York

Based in New York and launched in 2017, Ten Thousand is a premium men's activewear brand designed in collaboration with atheles from marathoners to members of the U.S. Special Operations Forces. The brand is sold online and operates a One In / One Out programme, allowing consumers to recycle old clothing for a discount.

The RealReal - 9 Merchandising Roles

Founded in 2011, The RealReal is an online luxury consignment site - now expanded into physical retail. With $288 million in funding raised, the company has a team of in-house experts who inspect every item sold.

Tory Burch - 4 Buying and Planner Roles, including Director of Buying, Handbags & Jewelry

Founded in 2004 in New York City, Tory Burch is an American luxury brand with collections including ready-to-wear, handbags, footwear, accessories, jewellery, home and beauty. Tory Sport, launched in September 2015, is performance activewear designed for workouts and weekends.

Who What Wear - Site Merchandiser

Who What Wear is an international fashion company known for its content sites - WhoWhatWear.com and WhoWhatWear.co.uk - and its affordable and size-inclusive line of clothing and accessories.

An international fashion and lifestyle brand, created out of Sydney by sisters Nicky and Simone Zimmermann in 1991. Stockists include Saks 5th Avenue, Neiman Marcus, Harrods, Harvey Nichols and Net-A-Porter. The brand's headquarters remain in Sydney, Australia, and they now operate offices and showrooms in New York and Paris.
Rest of World
Calvin Klein - Planner, CK China in Shanghai

Founded in 1968 by Calvin Klein and his business partner Barry Schwartz, global retail sales of Calvin Klein brand products exceeded $9 billion in 2019 and were distributed in over 110 countries. Calvin Klein employs over 11,500 associates globally and was acquired by PVH Corp. in 2003.

PVH - Senior Director of Supply Planning and Senior Product Manager, Merchandising CKJ in Hong Kong

One of the world's largest fashion companies, owning Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger among other brands, PVH has over 30,000 associates and connects with consumers in more than 40 countries.

Saint Laurent - Merchandising Assistant and Manager in Shanghai

Kering-owned Yves Saint Laurent is under the creative direction of Anthony Vaccarello, offering women's and men's ready-to-wear, shoes, handbags, small leather goods, jewelry, scarves, ties and eyewear.

Tory Burch - Senior Merchandiser, Allocator and more in Hong Kong

American luxury brand Tory Burch offers collections in ready-to-wear, handbags, footwear, accessories, jewellery, home and beauty, as well as Tory Sport - a performance activewear designed for workouts and weekends.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Here's Who Is Hiring in Buying and Merchandising

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We collate every job opportunity live on BoF Careers for applicants seeking to work in Buying and Merchandising.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The family of art, design and performance museums · V&A

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Welcome to the V&A - the family of art, design and performance museums

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We look after the places you love, from houses, buildings and gardens to coast and countryside. Join us and help protect them.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Discover the world of science behind our botanical collections, with over 50,000 living plants to be found across our UNESCO World Heritage site.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How to speak so that people want to listen | Julian Treasure | TED

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Draw Your Future - Patti Dobrowolski TED

# data[].attributes.headline
How Adaptability Will Help You Deal With Change 

# data[].attributes.subject
How Adaptability Will Help You Deal With Change 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How Adaptability Will Help You Deal With Change | Jennifer Jones | TEDxNantwich

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Own Your Behaviours, Master Your Communication, Determine Your Success | Louise Evans | TEDxGenova

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
google technology science android "google app" "google drive" gmail "google maps" nexus "google doodles" "google zeitgeist"

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Experience the world of Google on our official YouTube channel. Watch videos about our products, technology, company happenings and more. Subscribe to get updates from all your favorite Google products and teams.