Curious to learn about the fashion masterminds behind the brand? We caught up with Head of Menswear Buying, Nick Tahir to give us the lowdown on what it’s really like to work in the wonderful world of fashion…
What does a typical day at River Island HQ look like for you?
My role is quite varied which means meetings with many different departments; from buying to marketing, no two days are alike. We’re hugely product focused and due to the nature of fast fashion, we like to be flexible in our thoughts, actions and how we trade and buy.
How did you get into fashion buying?
I’ve been interested in fashion since my teens when I landed a part-time job at Concept Man (the original River Island Man!). My first full-time job was as Stock Controller at Great Universal Stores where they recognised my passion for product and I quickly transferred to the fashion buying team.
Where’s your favourite place to travel with work and why?
There are so many, but if I had to pick one it would be Hong Kong. It was one of the first far-east destinations I travelled to for business and I still enjoy the pace, the culture and admire their work ethic. It’s an altogether vibrant city.
What one piece of advice would you give someone trying to break into fashion buying?
Positive thinking, positive outcome! Be prepared to start at the bottom of the ladder and be flexible in your thinking. Take risks and make mistakes, but learn from them. Ask questions and map out your career goal, keeping this in sight at all times. Lastly if you can, look to gain experience in both buying and merchandising; if you’re able to master both product and numbers you’ll have a very successful career.
What can we expect from the upcoming season?
It’s packed with amazing product and there’s a huge emphasis on colour. Denim jackets are key, as are washed laundered shirts and ripped denim. There’s a huge sports influence in jersey and the key fits across all areas are muscle and skinny.
What’s your spring wardrobe staple and why?
My spring staples would have to be a blazer/t-shirt combination with cropped trousers or chino shorts, paired with a slip on shoe or Converse high top.
Feeling inspired by Nick’s Q&A? Let us know by tweeting us @RiverIsland.