Thrive in Fashion Buying and Merchandising

Author: Elisabeth Mac Hale

This podcast "Thrive in Fashion" is your ultimate guide to navigating the dynamic world of FASHION BUYING & MERCHANDISING. Hosted by Elisabeth Mac Hale, a seasoned fashion buyer and industry consultant, this podcast is designed for aspiring buyers, fashion graduates & boutique owners, passionate about the fashion business. Each episode explores different aspects of fashion buying, from trend analysis and product development to retail strategy. Elisabeth shares her wealth of experience, offering practical insights and industry tips, to help you build a successful career in fashion buying.
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Language: en-gb

Genres: Arts, Fashion & Beauty

Contact email: Get it

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What Being ‘Commercial’ Really Means and Why It Matters (#035)
Episode 35
Sunday, 26 October, 2025

Every buyer has heard it — “Be more commercial.”But what does that actually mean?In this episode, Elisabeth breaks down one of the most misunderstood phrases in fashion buying.She explains how being commercial isn’t about losing creativity — it’s about understanding the why behind what sells, and using that insight to make your creativity more powerful.Drawing on her 25+ years in buying and her experience training global fashion teams, Elisabeth shares:Why commercial thinking starts with curiosity, not spreadsheets. The 3 commercial pillars every buyer should master How to read the story your sales data is telling you.And how commercial awareness builds the confidence that drives promotions.Whether you’re early in your buying career or ready to step up into leadership, this episode will help you see how creative and commercial thinking work together — not against each other.“Commercial” = curiosity + clarity + connection.Your numbers aren’t judgement — they’re feedback.When you can explain your decisions with evidence, people listen differently.Understand what being “commercial” really means.Build confidence interpreting buying reports and KPIs.Learn how to balance creativity with commercial success.🧭 Take the Free Fashion Buyer Skills Assessment: