Written by Menswear Style in Essentials on the 4th June 2014

I studied graphic design at Central St Martins and then did a post grad in footwear design at Cordwainers [London College of Fashion] before Starting my career at Kurt Geiger working on ladies KG and young designer brands. 

I then moved to LK Bennett as women’s footwear buyer and In 2007 I moved to River Island as senior buyer on men’s footwear. I then joined Debenhams in May 2012 as Senior Buyer on men’s shoes and I really enjoy my job here at Debenhams since everyday is different. 

I am lucky that the range I buy is very broad and diverse covering anything from goodyear welted shoes to plimsolls. Debenhams offers one of the broadest ranges of footwear on the high-street, this includes our own label and international footwear brands which is enjoyable since we’re catering for such a vast customer base.

J Jeans by Jasper Conran Derby shoes 

The casual element to the Jasper Conran range has been integral to the designer's success at Debenhams and this piece of newness for SS14 bridges the formal/casual gap perfectly. The lightweight construction and tan leather make it a great style for the summer months.

Hammond & Co by Patrick Grant Boat shoes 

Boat shoes are still a massive trend in the spring/summer 2014 season, and these Hammond & Co shoes offer the customer the classic boat shoe look whilst the suede and subtle stitch detailing offers more of a designer edge.

Hammond & Co by Patrick Grant Plimsolls 

Taking inspiration from army service PT plimsolls, this style offers an "old school" feel that is current with today's trends. The canvas material is lightweight and durable in the summer, and unlike most plimsolls these actually look better when slightly beaten up.

J Jeans by Jasper Conran Backpack  

A great size to carry around during a long summer weekend, and yet light enough not to make you feel uncomfortable, this canvas backpack is bang on trend with its grey/brown colour combination and tan leather straps which give the product a premium feel.

Hammond & Co Whitehall mac 

The textbook summer jacket, which can be worn in both formal and causal occasions. The subtle check detailing under the collar adds the classic British feel which is so important for today’s consumer.

In this Buyer Briefing with Sally Taylor the senior shoe buyer at Debenhams, she picks out 5 of her top pick items for the spring/summer 2014 season.