How THE TRADE LINE will work

Designers upload their sample collections on release dates A/W or S/S (or when their samples are ready, if they do not follow the traditional buying calendar). Registered buyers from all over the world are then able to view the collections that have been uploaded. Searches can be defined so that buyers can search by name, price, location, colour, designer history, delivery date, exclusivity opportunities, etc….

Designers are able to keep their ‘sample’ collection online until they need to close their order books; this selling period usually lasts around four to six weeks. The buyers can then send all online orders and traditional off-line orders (secured by networks other than THE TRADE LINE) to the manufacturer, who can begin production.

When the products are ready the orders are sent out to stores, sites and customers in the usual way.

THE TRADE LINE is essentially an introduction website where fashion designers and fashion buyers can connect all over the world. It does not aim to take over existing trade channels such as trade shows and sales agents, instead it supports them. THE TRADE LINE brings networks of independent fashion designers together structures their communication output and presents then them with their peers to the fashion business community.

As THE TRADE LINE can capture information from designers and will then present this data in a controlled, structured and focused manner there will be a reduction in the need for designer cold calling, ‘shot in the dark’ emails and the expensive creation of look books. THE TRADE LINE application will be simple to use and easy and quick to view. It will help simplify and move forward the wholesale buying process in the fashion industry.