Position Summary: Reporting to the SVP of Design, this candidate will be responsible for the design and execution of soft woven garments across all categories. The role requires a highly creative candidate that can identify business opportunities through a creative and brand appropriate lens. This candidate will liaise with product development, merchandising, tech and production to ensure a cohesive and structured process from concept to customer. This candidate will be responsible for research, concepting and designing seasonal product that is in line with all business targets.

Position Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Under the directive of the Creative Director and VP of Design this candidate will present creative research and concepting of creative ideas in accordance with seasonal line plans specific to soft wovens development; concept presentation should include research, sketches, drapes, fabric manipulation, textile developments and finishing mock-ups as well as corresponding graphics. All designs presented should consider finishes, trims and branding as needed.
Present focused design concepts to be incorporated in soft wovens design presentation to VP of Design and Creative Director. Upon feedback make necessary adjustments and represent and/or develop ideas further.
Preparation of design meetings and following through on updating all design collateral as needed when changes occur.
Liaise with materials team and graphic designer to collaborate and incorporate materials, sew tests, drapes, mock-ups and corresponding graphics to fully realize his/her design concept proposals.
Collaboration with in-house atelier: pattern makers, sewers etc to realize quality protos and sms samples.
Prioritize developments in accordance with overseas deadlines; work with tech designers to ensure all necessary information is passed and communicated to overseas factories. Keep in close communication with tech and pd to ensure developments are proceeding according to plan and present solutions where necessary.
Delegate and prioritize design workflow from associate designer, assistant designer, intern and liaise with cross functional PD, tech and pattern maker to ensure all design details are communicated accurately. Ensure all fabric, trim and construction information is present. Work with patternmakers from initial drape through fittings, to execution of showroom samples.
Name and set up all styles in the system inclusive of product descriptions and accurate sketches. Follow and update all design changes systematically.
Participate in pre-fitting all prototypes prior to proto review with the intention of making improvements and preparing solutions.
Support in preparation of all proto review meetings; making sure that all garments have been assessed and considered. If necessary, prepare solutions or supplemental ideas/ concepts that are in accordance with the seasonal line plan.
Communicate SMS launch by style and sku to PD and ensure design boards and system are updated to reflect launched styles.
Check all SMS upon arrival and make any necessary adjustments
Support Design Director in preparation of all styling meetings; making sure that all SMS are present and organized in order of the line sheet. Prepare any supplemental design materials needed for style out.
Participate in styling and fitting of collection for show and/or look book.
Participate in BOM reviews with an ability to make solution-oriented decisions on trim, counter sourcing and sales call outs
Participate in all necessary SMS through TOP sample fittings. Ensure design integrity and all fit comments are considered and communicated efficiently. Liaise with tech, PD and production to maintain aesthetic and production viability through to the customer.
Analyze, leverage and integrate sales and bookings data to inform ongoing and future designs.
Work on any additional projects as needed.

Knowledge and Background Requirements

BA or BFA
Fashion Design MFA is a plus
6+ years experience in designer capacity
Excellent flat sketching skills
Excellent knowledge of patternmaking or draping
Excellent knowledge of construction, sewing techniques and finishes
Familiar with fabric mills, fabric capabilities and applications
Strong color and print sense
Excellent time management and interpersonal skills
Ability to prioritize and manage workload with multiple deadlines
Excellent communication skills and ability to lead, delegate and manage a team
Prior experience managing and leading design assistants
Strong ability to present ideas
Strong Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and Indesign skills
Enthusiasm to bring new energy into design process

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer M/D/F/V

In compliance with the New York City salary transparency requirements, the potential salary for this position is from $125,000 to $130,000, which represents a range commensurate with experience, knowledge, and skills required.

Senior Designer, Soft Wovens