“We are constantly looking for new brands, exclusives on new lines, fresh designs,” says Belinda. Sweet words for designers out there wishing to add TopShop Concessions to their stockists list, however, getting in with such a style-savvy brand is no easy feat.

Belinda continues, “We like to develop diffusion ranges so that the designs are more exclusive, ‘CeCi Tokyo’ for example has a diffusion range with us called ‘Yuki.’”

Dress by CeCi Tokyo

Admittedly Belinda states that a huge portion of the designers that approach her aren’t right for TopShop Concessions, which essentially is a fast-fashion market for style savvy females. “We’ve had designers come in with only sketches and that means nothing to us. It’s not just about great design but about people that can manage a business. We need to see proven success before they approach us - it could be by selling their range on a market stall, really it’s all about demonstrating confidence in their range.”

Common pitfalls often include - wrong target market; always research key customers of the store you are approaching, poor business planning or designs that are too conceptual to be developed for the commercial market.

A particularly strong sector, not forgetting to mention, hot topic of the moment is ethical fashion. “This is a big growth area for us,” says Belinda. “We have fairtrade and organic lines, along with recycled and customised collections in the Bazaar area. ‘Whereareyounow?’ was introduced to us by Jenny and that label uses recycled materials.”

Belinda bagged her role as Junior Concessions Buyer for TopShop by working her way up through the company. “I started out as a temp and when I saw a position had become available I went for it,” she says. Belinda recommends the temping route as it gives you an instant insight into the inner workings of a company plus you have the added advantage of being a familiar face.

On the topic of key trends Belinda’s top tip for Spring/Summer 2008 is prints. “It’s going to be a strong season for print. Small florals at the commercial end with edgier paint splashes and oversize prints for the more adventurous. Luella’s Spring/Summer collection will prove really inspirational.”

With so much going on in fashion how does Belinda remain on-track and on-trend? “I always check out what girls are wearing on the street, stay up-to-date with the latest magazines and also look at what the competition is doing.”

Designers interested in having their collections considered for TopShop Concessions should go through Jenny Holloway at Fashion-Enter. Please note that Fashion-Enter is a members service that provides mentoring, support, professional advice and expertise along with PR, wholesale and stockist opportunities. For more information contact Fashion-Enter telephone: 020 8462 9620 www.fashion-enter.com

With thanks to Belinda Manfo and TopShop.

Interview by JoJo Iles

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