Design Director- Women's Apparel Job at Earthbound Brands in New York

Salary: $115k-$150k based on experience

Please Note the specific brand and retailer will be disclosed during the interview process upon signing an NDA. 

Overview of Position:

 

The Design Director for Apparel is responsible for creating original concept, trend reporting, and designs for Apparel for a women's apparel brand (to be disclosed). They will oversee a team of 1-2 associates and be responsible for all apparel categories for the brand including knits, sweaters, and wovens. This individual will be a key factor for seasonal product conceptualization, execution of designs, and preparation/approval for production. They seek & pursue new innovative ways to use color, fabric, and details in design.

 

The individual will report into the Sr. Design Director and work closely with the celebrity to build a beautiful lifestyle brand. Though not directly responsible, they will have visibility and can add input on the accessories categories including jewelry, footwear, and handbags

Responsibilities: 

• Think innovatively at all stages of the creative, design and development process.
• Keep Design leadership & team up to date with product design/development via meetings.
• Responsible for briefing art that meets the technical requirements needed to be met for specific products.
• Stay on top of calendar to meet important milestone and deadlines.
• Collaborate with leadership and celebrity to create and execute their vision, while maintaining the brand identity and overall business strategy.
• Work closely with leadership to define seasonal framework and ensure that creative ideas and business goals are aligned.
• Identify key color trends and develop seasonal color palettes.
• Oversee all aspects of the design process from concept through to production (sketching, sample development, fabric and trim development/bulk approval, lead and manage sketch & sample review meetings, design/fit callouts at fittings)
• Ensure garments meet fit, comfort, and construction goals for their respective categories.
• Create tech packs and garment specs for designs.
• Maintain design records and line sheets with up to date information.
• Full knowledge of raw materials, washes and finishes specific to the apparel product; partner with sourcing to accomplish desired outcome.
• Communicate with overseas factories, product development/sourcing team, technical design team, merchants, licensees, and brand.
• Oversee the approval of fabrics, trims and print throughout the design development and production
• Create original designs, patterns for physical and digital garments based on market and customer research, as well as trend analysis.
• Gather and present inspiration for new ideas, new product lines and designs for seasonal lines
• Ability to identify key trends and determine how they relate to the brand/consumer.
• Analyze sales data and customer reviews to build assortment.
• Create style boards and meeting presentation materials.
• Be able to travel for milestone meetings, presentations, and shows/tapings.
• Prepare style guides for celebrity, host, and production staff in preparation of shows/tapings

Qualifications and Requirements: 

• 10+ years of experience in Apparel Design. Must have knowledge and extensive experience in ALL the following: Woven, Cut & Sew Knit, Sweater, and Denim/Bottom apparel categories.
• Strong portfolio showcasing design work
• Strong color expertise
• Thorough knowledge of silhouettes, fabrication, construction techniques, and trim.
• Expertise with Adobe Suite - Illustrator and Photoshop. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite
• Excellent verbal and written communication.
• Ability to present with clarity.
• Strong understanding of items at competition and new technologies and innovation pertaining to the above categories.
• Ability to attend trade shows, as necessary.
• Exceptional organization skills as well as the ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to take direction, handle and prioritize multiple projects

 

Salary range $115,000-$150,000 aligned with candidate experience