THIS Is How Trends Get Started

Matching separates? Mixing prints? Or, just throwing on a pair of high-waisted jeans? These moves might not sound groundbreaking, but they were once brand new. And, somebody made them happen. As much as we'd like to attribute it to the runway gods or, you know, ourselves, we know that is not the truth. Trends are carefully stitched together by a few key players who decide what actually gets sold in stores: fashion buyers like Ben Matthews.

The nine-year veteran of NET-A-PORTER.COM took us on a behind-the-scenes tour of his office and gave us a deeper look at how trends are made. And, because we refused to let him go without a little sneak peek, he offered us an exclusive look at the holiday items NAP can't get enough of — we've never been so excited to get schooled.