FREELANCE ASSOCIATE DESIGNER (Handbags) - Hybrid

Will you We are looking for a Freelance Associate Designer (Handbags) for a top fashion company in New York City. This position will be hybrid and based out of the New York office. The Associate Designer supports the seasonal design development process, from concept to delivery, by creating and executing original, trend-appropriate design concepts that meet market needs and drive sales, and ensuring the timely execution of each stage in the process.

Responsibilities: 

• Research and identify trend directions; perform competitive analysis; pull and review design concepts, presentation boards for meetings, mock-ups, color-ups, inspirational photos
• Execute development of initial seasonal design category in context of larger assortment and cost structure 
• Design according to style plans, sales needs and emerging trends; ensure timely execution of product development calendar
• Create Illustrator sketches; review specification sheets and line sheets; ensure accuracy of product development logs, line sheets, boards and design archives library; ensure maintenance of designs in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system or shared drives
• Select and review raw materials and trims; ensure maintenance of library
• Approve lab dips with Senior Designer(s) and ensure consistency with color standards and licensor directives, where appropriate; review prints and graphics where appropriate and advise revisions
• Coordinate follow-up with internal and external customers and partners, including technical design, production and vendors; manager interoffice communication
• Build collaborative relationships with vendors and internal customers
• Contribute positively to team dynamic and manage up where necessary
• Attract, develop and retain talent

Required Qualifications:

• Superior organizational skills and excellent communication skills; team oriented
• Accessories experience preferred, preferably handbags.
• Ability to multi-task and meet deadlines; highly detail oriented, meticulous and creative
• Creativity, technical capability and sensibility for merchandising; ability to sketch
• Highly proficient in Photoshop and Illustrator, CAD and Mac Computers
• Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion or Accessories Design
• 3-5 years' experience in accessories design