Where Do Clothes Come From? Finding Fashions: Miami Style

Street Wear 35's Store Front

   When customers enter our store and view our eclectic collection, the first question we're always asked is, "Where do you guys get all these things?" 

  Well, that's a good question, and the answer is: from all over the globe! Some of our inventory comes from Europe, some from Israel, and much of it from US fashion capitols like Los Angeles, New York and Miami. 

  But how does this buying process work? How are these items selected, and moved from Fashion house to final customer? We can't give away all our secrets, but we will offer a special insider look to a recent Miami shopping venture!

  Downtown Miami is a central hub for gathering fashions from key designer houses in LA and NYC. When we can't fly out to either one of these locations, a quick 5-hour drive brings us into the heart of sizzling Miami. There are two designated areas of the Miami Fashion District, and along them are a slew of designer fashion houses that cater only to stores like Street Wear 35. 

  Shopping in Miami is unlike any other experience. The latest fashions are acquired from designer centrals in LA and NYC and assorted in enormous storefronts where buyers bid for the hottest items. When new inventory arrives, clothing is purchased and bidding begins even before the boxes can be unpacked! Because there is such limited quantities of clothing, buyers are practically battling to the death over who will get the best inventory. In some occasions, store owner Daniel Avital and I were forced to leave because we had forgotten our boxing gloves in St. Augustine!

Taken from Terris P's Blackberry

  

   All in all, Miami shopping can be a very stressful, yet rewarding experience. With my boss Danni's expertise, and acute knowledge of what will be hot, we had acquired a bunch of exciting and in-vogue items to bring home to St. Augustine. 

*  BONUS!  *

Danni's three tips on what he looks for when purchasing inventory 

(in order of importance)

1. Intuition - Always trust your judgment when it comes to picking up clothing. If it immediately captivates you, it will likely captivate a customer.

2. Price - What will yield a profit with the best quality and customer satisfaction? 

3. Wholesaler's Advice - Trust the advice of your wholesaler! If it sells quickly with them, it will likely be a successful item in your store. Ask questions like "Have you had to re-order this item?" and "How well is this item selling?"