As we warm up for Moda AW19/20, it’s time to introduce this season’s speakers. In today’s session, we sit down with trend forecaster and buying consultant, Sarah Jackson, My Fashion Forecast to find out what she’ll be speaking about at Moda this season:

 

What can visitors expect from Moda this season?

Moda will be the place to be in the Midlands to soak up what AW19 has in store for your business and your customers. The show will be buzzing with the best brands in the industry today. There is nowhere else outside of London you can get this number of brands in one space. As well as the all the amazing product to look at, there are speakers, catwalk shows and social content. Fill your fashion boots at Moda!

 

Is there anything you’re particularly looking forward to at the show this season?

To be honest I will enjoy coming to the show and just soaking it all in. It’s the first time I will have been to show and not been on the Buying side. I can’t wait to see it all. I am interested to see Outerwear and Footwear as there are lots of exciting trends happening within those categories and they are the big money takers for the season.

 

Why do you think it’s important for retailers to visit trade shows?

It’s the best and only way to immerse yourself and your business in the season ahead. Its such an important part of the buying process to see, touch and feel the product and the trends in one place. You can absorb the atmosphere and the vibe of the brands and the ranges you will be buying into. As a Buyer at trade shows I always used to love just standing back and observing. Who were the new brands to watch, which were the busiest stands and who has the most commercial offer. It’s such an exciting place to be, and its can be such a buzz when you come across a new brand or product area that you that you did not expect to find! It’s a vital part of the buying cycle that cannot be missed.

 

What has been your career highlight to date?

It has to be taking the plunge last year and going freelance after 12 years at Next. I now get to utilise my vast experience of Buying to work with smaller businesses as a Consultant advising them on trend and product opportunities. I also passionately love my Blogging and Lecturing in Fashion Management at Nottingham Trent University. I have managed to push myself out of my comfort zone and network outside of my field. It’s been exhilarating and very challenging. I've learnt so much and I am only 8 months in.

 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

‘You have to believe in yourself that’s the secret’ it’s a Charlie Chaplin quote which I have framed in my kitchen at home it’s the first thing I look at everyday as I make a cup of tea. It sets me up for the day! Its such great advice. If you have self-belief you can do anything.