Baking today, shopping tomorrow. Our Junior Womenswear Buyer, Priya Banwait, shares how she's embracing the chance to refresh her wardrobe and the timeless pieces to invest in for whatever the future holds.
Baking today, shopping tomorrow. Our Junior Womenswear Buyer, Priya Banwait, shares how she's embracing the chance to refresh her wardrobe and the timeless pieces to invest in for whatever the future holds.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR ROLE...
When I was at school, I actually wanted to be a lecturer! Then before my degree, I did work experience at a fashion brand and loved it. During my summer break from university, I worked in a Hobbs store and really admired the brand ethos. So when a buyer role came up, I jumped at the chance. 10 years later – I still love working for Hobbs! One of the challenges of remote working has been developing the garments. I can't wait to see the clothes up close again.
HOW DO YOU UNWIND?
My mum and sister are both amazing bakers and with my sweet tooth, I decided to use the lockdown as an excuse to try baking myself! I’ve now made a few cakes, including a bakewell tart and a banoffee pie. Although I’m still a novice, I’m enjoying trying (and tasting) new recipes.
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNT DURING LOCKDOWN?
Shockingly, I've learnt I really enjoy exercising! I’ve always been adverse to fitness but being indoors a lot has made me realise how important it is. In the office we're always running around grabbing garments, so my step count is definitely down! Because I love a good dance, I've found some great aerobic videos, which make me feel like I’m not really exercising at all!
HAS YOUR STYLE CHANGED AND WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO WEARING AGAIN?
I’ve spent more time in comfy clothes, living in floaty dresses and elasticated waist trousers! I have a few looser fit dresses and tops in my wardrobe, which are perfect for spending the day sitting at my desk. I’m looking forward to getting dressed up again and wearing my dressier clothes. And I never thought I would say it, I’m missing wearing heels.
WHICH BOOK WOULD YOU RECOMMEND?
After watching Becoming on Netflix I decided to read the book by Michelle Obama. I think she is such an inspiring individual and her book is a great insight into all the challenges she has faced. I think what she has achieved and what she continues to do, is remarkable.
SHARE 3 THINGS YOU CAN'T WAIT TO DO WHEN LOCKDOWN IS LIFTED...
Number one: I can't wait to see all my friends and family. Although doing Zoom call quizzes has been fun, it’s just not the same. Two: dine in a restaurant. I enjoy trying new places but I'm making do with local takeaways for now. Three: go shopping. I’m so pleased the shops have reopened, so I can look at clothes and shoes in real life!
AS A BUYER, WHICH PIECES SHOULD EVERY WOMAN SHOULD INVEST IN TO FUTURE-PROOF THEIR WARDROBE?
PRIYA'S TOP 5 WARDROBE ESSENTIALS
PRIYA'S TOP 5 WARDROBE ESSENTIALS