We are seeking an imaginative and commercially aware Fashion Designer to lead design for seasonal collections. The role requires strong sketching and CAD skills, fabric knowledge and a clear understanding of production processes. The successful candidate will collaborate with buyers, technologists and suppliers to bring concepts to market.
Fashion Designer Job Profile
The Fashion Designer will develop concepts from initial research and sketching through to finished samples. They will manage a collection brief, select fabrics and trims, and produce technical packs to ensure accurate interpretation at every stage of development.
This role suits candidates who can balance creative flair with cost consciousness and time management. The designer will be expected to present mood boards, manage sample fittings and liaise with suppliers to deliver collections on time and to budget.
Fashion Designer Job Description
The Fashion Designer will research trends and create a seasonal direction that aligns with brand identity and commercial targets. They will sketch ideas by hand and, using CAD software, create colourways and specify fabrics, trims and construction details. The designer will translate concepts into technical documentation, including spec sheets and size grading, to guide pattern cutters and manufacturers.
Working closely with the production team, garment technologist and quality control, the designer will oversee sample development, conduct fit sessions and make necessary adjustments to ensure the final product meets quality standards. They will also collaborate with the buying and merchandising teams to ensure the collection fits price points and margin requirements.
In addition to creative tasks, the role requires strong project management skills. The Fashion Designer will manage timelines, coordinate cross-functional stakeholders and participate in range planning meetings. An awareness of sustainable materials and ethical production practices is increasingly important within the role.
Fashion Designer Duties and Responsibilities
- Conduct trend research and produce seasonal mood boards and concept lines.
- Create sketches, technical drawings and CAD illustrations for collection items.
- Select fabrics, trims and colour palettes in line with brand direction.
- Prepare technical packs and spec sheets for pattern makers and manufacturers.
- Manage sample development and lead fit sessions to refine garments.
- Liaise with suppliers and factories to ensure quality and delivery schedules.
- Collaborate with buying and merchandising teams on assortment and pricing.
- Maintain collection documentation and ensure compliance with production standards.
- Monitor costs and suggest cost-effective design or material alternatives.
- Champion sustainable design choices and ethical sourcing where possible.
Fashion Designer Requirements and Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design, Textiles or a related discipline.
- Proven experience designing commercial collections for retail or luxury brands.
- Strong sketching, illustration and CAD skills, including Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
- Knowledge of pattern cutting, garment construction and technical specification.
- Experience in preparing technical packs, size grading and fit protocols.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills for internal and supplier meetings.
- Commercial awareness with the ability to balance design with cost and margin targets.
- Organised project management skills and experience working to seasonal deadlines.
- Familiarity with sustainable fabrics and ethical sourcing practices preferred.
- A portfolio demonstrating a range of commercial and creative work is essential.
