Laura Guild:
Checking into Burberry Pic: Joe Stubbs via unsplash.com
Born and raised in Aberdeenshire, Laura Guild, a Fashion Management graduate, tells me more about her experience as a student and success as a showroom assistant. Having graduated from university, Laura - now 24 years of age, has located
After market, I assist with runway and pre collection sample management
herself in London, one of the fashion capitals of the world. Her ambition
around the business.”
and education in fashion, has led her to employment at iconic British luxury brand – Burberry.
What happens during market at Burberry and do you have any highlights
I interviewed her for more insight to the designer fashion world and her
you could share?
life prior to graduation.
“During market, Burberry buyers from all regions of the world, come to our showroom to take part in collection presentations that are hosted by the
Can you tell me about your role at Burberry?
merchandisers here at Horseferry House. This happens for any collection
“My role enables me to interact with many stakeholders in the business
that is created, usually ten months before it reaches stores.
and gives me exposure to the amazing things
These presentations go in depth into
that happen at Burberry. Most initiatives are
each category (menswear, womenswear,
in our showroom here in London. It’s a huge space that spans two floors. I personally work in one of two global showrooms as a menswear specialist. The showroom is used for internal purposes only, where market commences four times a year. Market lasts around two weeks, during which, collections can be viewed and ordered by stockists and regional buyers. For example, everything from Harrods,
“THESE PRESENTATIONS ARE ONE OF MY FAVOURITE THINGS ABOUT MY JOB... EVEN IN AN ‘ENTRY LEVEL’ ROLE, IT REALLY MAKES ME FEEL PART OF THE PROCESS”
Selfridges, Net-a-Porter and MyTheresa, will
childrenswear and the accessories for all three groups). These presentations are one of my favourite things about my job, as gaining an insight to the inspiration and development behind an idea or product is so interesting to me. Even in an ‘entry level’ role, it really makes me feel part of the process and that’s something I love about the company. My favourite category is men’s readyto-wear. Both the design team and
come into the showroom.
merchandisers are lovely, and I’ve built
The market in September totalled an average of around £3 million worth of
relationships with key players in the business through my performance
clothing orders per day, and that was during Covid-19.
and offering any support I can, especially during busy times.”
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