10 MINUTES WITH: NIKI HAYLETT

We sit down with the head buyer from Marks & Spencer to get a sneak peek of this season’s 70s inspired collection

- Natalie Westernoff

What would you say to any young person trying to get into fashion buying?

I would say study because it really helps you understand the key tasks and skills required to become successful. I would also advise doing as many internships as possible and if you can travel while doing so even better. I studied at university in England for example and then attended the Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan, New York, and it was during my time in New York that really inspired me. I was attending lectures by many leading designers from Marc Jacobs to Oscar De La Renta, all of which influenced me to go into fashion buying and forge a great career.

How has working with Marks & Spencer over the last 10 years shaped your perception of fashion?

The fashion landscape and our lifestyles are ever-changing but what remains consistent is that women want stylish, fashionable, wearable, comfortable and versatile collections. And that’s why the team and I continue to review and work on collections to ensure there is a clear definition and appeal that meets the needs of every woman.

Marks & Spencer is an accessible brand with product that is long-lasting, how do you see womenswear in Marks & Spencer evolving over the next few years as buyer habits evolve?