Fabric buyers are an essential part of the design team within a brand, they are responsible for researching, developing, testing and purchasing of materials for designers to work with in the design and manufacturing of garments. 

In a smaller company, a fabric buyer may also be responsible for sourcing trims as well. Trims are for example buttons, binding tapes, zipper pulls, rivets - everything required to complete a garment. In large companies, the role would be split in two with fabric and tims being two separate departments. A person responsible for trims would have the same job responsibility as a fabric buyer, so this same description would apply.

Buyers will work across many parts of the team with supply chain, designers and logistics. 

When a designer wants to develop and test new fabrics, the buyer will be a crucial person to be involved to make sure the necessary materials can be sourced. As well as staying plugged into new trends and materials to keep the brand ahead of the curve.
They will visit international fabric mills and trade shows looking for fabric or developing new ones. For example, a designer might select a fabric that is really expensive so the fabric buyer might source a similar fabric elsewhere for a cheaper price. Or a designer might find a swatch of vintage fabric and ask for the buyer to find something available now in large quantities for production of the collection.

Negotiations in purchasing and testing are also part of the job as the buyer will be the main contact for the fabric suppliers. The buyer will also be ensuring orders for fabric are made and delivered to the right garment manufacturers on time.

Studying a fashion course or a textile course is ideal for the role to understand the needs of the brand, as well as knowledge of garment production and construction. Comfort with numbers and negotiating are also essential to fulfill the buying role effectively and secure the best deals for the brand alongside building good relationships with suppliers.