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In this Blog I will be explaining what trend forecaster is, and what their responsibilities include.

What is a trend forecaster?

Trend Forecasters are the people in charge for the clothing that goes out on the runway, and on sale. They analyse what is going to be the next up and coming trends in fashion and present this information to their clientele. After they present the trends with a Trend Report, designers start to work on their garments that will be in the next season for a brand. This is a very important job role, as it keeps brands relevant and makes sure that their clothing is up to date and eye-catching. They are the reason that big clothing brands stay popular, and keep up their success.

How do they forecast a trend?

Trend Forecasters predict trends through observational research. They travel round the world and observe the environment and street style of the places that they are in. They also analyse and observe cultures and subcultures, to make sure they are looking in every place that they can. From this analysis, they create a visual presentation of what they have observed and seen. They do this in both written text, mood boards, colour swatches, patterns and images. Then after they create this, they present a Trend Report that informs a brand of what they should be inspired by when they are designing, and what designers should look for. This ensures that all styles, and new products will be successful and will sell.

What are the responsibilities of being a trend reporter?

• Observational research
• Delivering pitches
• Having good knowledge of what will work and what won’t work
• Attending fashion shows and events
• Looking everywhere for inspiration
• Working with designers to develop their knowledge properly
• Short term forecasting
• Long term forecasting

What skills are needed to become a trend reporter?

• Confidence – you need to be able to deliver a strong pitch
• Be good at observing
• Be good at analysing
• Have knowledge of references and media in the fashion industry
• Understand fabrics, patterns and colours
• Good writing skills
• Good interpersonal skills
• Understand what consumers would like and buy
• Good communication skills
• Be curious
• Look beneath the surface

Bibliography

http://www.fashionretailacademy.ac.uk. (n.d.). Fashion Careers: Guide to Trend Forecasting | FRA. [online] Available at: https://www.fashionretailacademy.ac.uk/resources/guide-to-fashion-trend-forecasting.

Rhodes, G. (2021). What does a Trend Forecaster do? And how to become one? [online] Glam Observer. Available at: https://glamobserver.com/what-does-a-trend-forecaster-do-and-how-to-become-one/.

http://www.hotjar.com. (n.d.). Trend Report: What It Is and How to Create One. [online] Available at: https://www.hotjar.com/performance-reporting/glossary/trend-report/.

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