This week, Myfashdiary’s guest insider is Ania Arcaini, contemporary womenswear buyer for LuisaViaRoma.com. Ania shares tips on the trends we should be wearing for s/s’12, what makes a good buyer, the hot brands to know and tips for aspiring buyers.

http://luisaviaroma.com

-What trends should we be wearing this spring/summer’12?
Some great colours, from brights to pastels has definitely made a comeback. Floral prints are also a really big trends for the Spring Summer 2012 season.

-What makes a good buyer?
Staying alert and catching up on the key trends of each season. Keeping your eyes peeled for up and coming designers who are creative but also have the potential to be a commercial success. It’s also important to be able to be objective enough about different tastes to offer a range of products for those who not only want avant-garde pieces but also for those who love a timeless classic, always keeping in mind different budgets and price ranges.

-What are the hot brands to know?
MGSM have gained the support of Italian design duo Dolce & Gabbana and their SS 2012 florals were snapped on a number of fashionistas during the latest fashion weeks. Pierre Balmain is the younger, diffusion line of this cult luxury French fashion house. R13jeans is another brand gathering a fashion forward celebrity following and have already been snapped up on style savvy Elin Kling and Rihanna. Underground infused Unif from LA has some pieces that will look fabulous at this summer’s music festivals. Alice + Olivia and Isabel Lu are two feminine and modern lines that have produced fun and colourful collections for Spring/Summer.

-What advice would you give aspiring buyers?
It’s not all as glamorous as it seems! Be prepared to work really hard and run from one showroom to another…a lot!

-What advice would you give designers that want to get on Luisa Via Roma’s radar?
Do something that is interesting and original, don’t just copy from the catwalks but give your work its own unique twist that makes it speak to a specific audience.