Whether new industry or established professionals: purchasing remains a decisive aspect of the fashion business. This also applies to wooden house in the Dutch city of Haarlem, which was founded in 1932 as a small denim shop and developed too far more than just a “blue shop ‘. Fashionunited talks to Babette Holt, who will take over the business from her parents.
The history of the business: a brief overview
“Our business has existed for 93 years. It began in 1932 as a small shop for work clothes with articles such as overalls, fishing sweaters and jeans. Denim has always remained the red thread. When Denim developed from work clothes to leisure fashion, we took this change. My father joined the business forty years ago and took it over from the previous owner. My mother began as an intern and never went together. have been running the shop for decades. “
Was the takeover of the business planned right from the start?
“No, not at all. My parents even advised me to do it during the financial crisis. Nevertheless, I continued to go to fashion. During my studies at AMFI, I decided on business & development. I specialized in digital patterns and 3D prototyping-which I also taught at AMFI for a while-and I always worked in the shop. After all, I felt it three years ago. fully entered. “
How does it feel to take the lead soon?
“Like a privilege. I get the space to determine my own course within the foundation of our family business. In today’s time when it is difficult to open a business, this is a great chance.”
How was the FS25 season for you?
“Very good, 2024 was our best year at all and this season we continue this trend. We are a little bit of our goals: a healthy plus that we call it. As an established business, it is always special that we grow every year. In view of the increasing costs, this is also necessary. We are constantly changing and renewing ourselves.
How does that affect your purchase for FS26?
“Most of our shopping for FS26, as FS25 does. Brands that run well get more budget. If something does not meet expectations, let’s rethink the placement. The results of this season therefore largely determine what is hanging in the store next year.”
Where do you get your inspiration from?
“Especially from shops and trade fairs such as the fashion frame and the preview. My parents drive to Ciff in Copenhagen in August and I hope to be there next year. The Pitti in Milan will also be on my wish list. We are also pursuing online trends via magazines and platforms. I have recently been in a network with young women who will do our own business. We exchange experiences and findings.
Which brands do you currently use to record the greatest growth?
“Opus, Someday and Yaya. These brands are all well organized. They work data -controlled and deliver small or monthly current drops every week. So we only get short trousers when it is really warm, and winter jackets stay in the warehouse until it gets cold. The fact that we actively replace pays is created.
Have new brands been added lately?
“Yes, Colorful Rebel, A-View and Co-Couture. We bring some playfulness and excitement into the store.”
What about the mix of new and established brands?
“We have a solid core, such as Opus, Someday, Yaya, Msch Copenhagen, and complement it with smaller, unmistakable labels for a boutique feeling. This also applies to men’s fashion, where we work with brands like PME Legend, G-Star, DStrezzed and Butcher of Blue.”
How do you distribute the pre- and follow-orders during the season?
“We now deliberately reserve budget for direct deliveries in order to be able to react faster to demand. Brands like Sisters Point cut off well. This flexible approach works for us.”
Is there still space for new brands for FS26?
“We are quite full, but we remain curious. We pursue brands like BY-BAR, JCSOPHIE, My Jewelery, Neo Noir, Freevent and Minus with interest. We also dream of expanding the business here-which of course would only enlarge our shops.”
Do you follow trends?
“Sure. Wide Leg Jeans remain popular, but with our jeans wall we offer the whole spectrum: from Skinny to Barrel-Fit. We rely on loose fit with the men, but we also have all the forms on offer. For the non-jeans collections, we pay particular attention to the style and the signature. Depending on the trend, we are part of it.
In conclusion: How do you want to continue your parents’ course?
“The nice thing is: we share the same vision. Service is the top priority, from a cup of coffee to individual advice and the free change of pants. In addition, we value expertise, especially for jeans, because a good fit really makes the difference. We also want to offer a large selection so that everyone can find out. These are pillars that I absolutely want to get. At the same time, I would like to give sustainability a greater importance. But I believe that we can become more conscious and transparent.
This article was used with digital tools translated.
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