Nordstrom Buying Simulation
In Fashion 371-01 Retail Buying, I was tasked with being the Assistant Buyer for the Men's Denim Department. In the following report, you will find department information, consumer profiles, department trends for F/W 26, assortment plan, and product sample.
Mission Statement
At Nordstrom, we are committed to providing the men’s denim department with high-quality pieces that combine style, durability, and comfort to meet their unique needs. Our department takes responsibility for guiding our clients with a diverse assortment of jeans that will ensure they find the perfect fit and style.
Skills Acquired
- Trend & Customer Analysis
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- Project Management
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- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
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- Retail Math
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- Merchandise Planning & Assortment
- Creating an Assortment Plan and a Six-Month Plan
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- Merchandise Budgeting
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- Product Development
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- Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving
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- Vendor Relations and Negotiations
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Consumer Profile
Nordstrom #221 - Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook IL
Avg Age of Consumer: 40 years old
Avg Family Income: $171,123
Avg Purchase in Dollars: $175
Fashion Attitude: Prioritize comfort and versatility for both work and casual attire.
Male/Female Population: Male 46.5% & Female 53.5%
Population of Family Households: 58%
Median Age: 52 years old
Retail Planogram
Advertising Calendar
Denim Fit Lab
Designer Q+A W/ Renee Perdomo, Creative Director of Levi's Strauss
Denim & Donuts Fall Event
Denim Heritage + Innovation Event
Selvedge Denim Saturday
Christmas Denim Lounge Pop-Up
Six Month Plan
Assortment Plan
Justification
Nordstrom's key brands for the Men's Denim department will be Levi's, AG, Paige, and Frame. For Nordstrom's denim assortment, Levi's receives 25% of the distribution for its iconic brand heritage and customer appeal due to classic and timeless garments. AG follows at 20% due to its strong reputation in sales performance in 2024, due to the brand's strong aspects in high-quality denim, sustainability, and timeless styles. Paige follows closely at 15% for being a fashion-forward brand with trend-driven styles. Lastly, Frame holds 10% as a luxury option brand that offers minimalist high-end denim for upscale customers at Nordstrom. Overall, this distribution assortment plan provides all three Nordstrom locations with a balanced assortment of heritage, premium, and luxury denim, which will ensure a wide customer reach, trendy items, and consistent sales performance.
Trend Forecasting F/W 2026
Denim F/W 2026
Straight and relaxed fit jeans remain a timeless staple in men's denim, but will have more room on the bottom hem, by having a wider leg opening, yet remaining tailored and relaxed on the top. Noted washes are both dark and light washes, and fades. Key materials are Selvedge denim, heavyweight cotton, and eco-friendly materials.
Product Development Sample
Style #1053017
Cost: $48
Retail Price: $148
Men’s Japanese Selvedge Straight-Flared Jeans
Color: Arashi Indigo
Fabric: 14 oz Japanese Selvedge denim, 100% organic cotton
This Nordstrom exclusive pair of jeans was designed in collaboration with Frame Denim. This product is crafted from 14 oz Japanese Selvedge Denim blended with 100% organic cotton. It delivers the perfect balance of comfort and durability. The straight fit offers a timeless, versatile silhouette, while the raw denim ensures that it will mold to your shape over time. This style appeals to consumers who value jeans with high craftsmanship, made from premium materials.
10% of proceeds will go to The Ocean Cleanup, a nonprofit that focuses on removing plastic waste from oceans and rivers. In-store signage and tags will explain the mission, and QR code links will also be provided.