Develop Target Markets

• Clothing buyers work closely with the marketing department of a clothing store or big franchise retailer to develop and market clothes toward a specific demographic. Buyers who work for retailers are typically responsible for one type of clothing, such as women's wear, men's shirts or lingerie. This allows them to focus on identifying fashion trends and developing a strategy to introduce new clothing lines. Buyers must also be aware of competitor price points so that they can better negotiate with garment manufacturers and suppliers.
  
  

Deal With Suppliers

• Clothing buyers must also visit with manufacturers and suppliers to inspect clothing and ensure that the quality of the merchandise meets acceptable standards. In some instances, buyers may suggest a change in suppliers if repeated errors and scheduling problems threaten the timely delivery of a new clothing line. Strong communication skills are necessary when dealing with suppliers because one misspoken word can cost a clothing company millions and delay the launch of new merchandise.
  
  

Negotiate

• Negotiation is another important responsibility of a fashion buyer. In addition to supervising a supplier's delivery schedule and merchandise quality, a buyer must also negotiate prices. A buyer is always seeking to obtain the optimal price point for her company, but effective negotiation requires a buyer to know the profit margin of a piece of clothing in order to determine the price she is willing to pay a supplier.
  
  

Buy

• Buying is obviously an important part of a clothing buyer's job, but it entails more than just visiting far-flung locations to view new fashion styles. A buyer must identify trends as many as six months to a year ahead of time because it will take that amount of time before new merchandise is available in stores. This entails attending fashion shows in locations throughout the world, and developing relationships with up-and-coming and established designers. Buyers are also responsible for knowing the kinds of clothing that will appeal to targeted consumers, and they must also confine their purchases to merchandise that fits the overall theme and image of the store that employs them.