Behind the Scenes with our Knitwear Buyer
Do you ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes in our knitwear development process? We interviewed our knitwear buyer Cat to give you an insight into all the care and detail that goes into making our high-quality ladies' knitwear.
What does a typical day look like for you as a knitwear buyer at Bella di Notte?
No two days are the same, working at Bella is varied, and exciting! Days can be spent looking at new samples and fitting garments, planning the catalogue and outfitting. Regularly meeting with our key suppliers online or in person.
Can you describe the process you go through when selecting new knitwear pieces for each season?
We start with researching new trends, checking out our competitors, and visiting suppliers. Each season new trend/yarn shows happen in Florence, London and Paris which provide guide on direction for the coming season. I will always start with replacing our customers' favourite styles, then layer on the newness to keep her excited and enticed to buy a new piece of Bella knitwear!
How do you balance current fashion trends with the slow fashion philosophy that Bella di Notte embraces?
I like to think our Bella knitwear as timeless pieces that can live on from one season to another! Colour and new quality yarns are the best way to keep our designs on trend. As a brand we're not a slave to fashion trends and always try to balance our customers' needs with newness and long-lasting products. There's nothing worse than buying a new piece of knitwear that only lasts a few washes!
Coming from a cashmere background I'm always searching for yarn that feels soft, and comfortable against the skin. There's nothing worse than an itchy jumper. Durability, low pill wear - we always try for a low pilling grade. How well yarn takes colour is also key to be able to deliver the customer the perfect new shade! It's also important to consider how seasonally appropriate our yarns are, knitwear is not just for winter! Each month we offer new styles our lady can shop year-round.
How do you ensure that our knitwear collections provide the perfect fit for our customers?
I work closely with our garment technologist to deliver the perfect fit. We carefully monitor returns each season to capture what our customer likes. We fit a size 10 and 18 before going into production, ensuring the fit works across the range. I know the key measurements that work for our lady and keep within these when developing new styles!
Do you have a personal favourite piece from the Bella di Notte knitwear collection?
The Alessia alpaca Jumper. Fabulous wardrobe staple in beautiful colours and super soft lofty yarn! Works across seasons as it's light and breathable too!
Across all our collections quality and care are at the forefront, made by women for women. Explore our tried and tested knitwear collection and add some thermal underwear for extra warmth.