Castore exists for one single reason – to make athletes better. Our ethos is built upon the philosophy of BETTER NEVER STOPS, an ideal deeply infused in our DNA and something we strive to live every single day. We utilise advanced engineering and unique technical fabrics to create the highest quality sportswear in the world for athletes who demand the very best. Designed with a passion for innovation with specialist features to help to optimise athletic performance in all conditions.
The founders’ vision is to build Castore into a brand respected across the globe for a deep and unrelenting commitment to engineering the highest quality sportswear in the world, with no stone left unturned in its search for innovation and performance enhancement.
The sportswear market has been dominated by a small clique of mass-market brands and the vision is for Castore to be a premium alternative to these, the natural brand of choice for discerning athletes who demand the very best.
The Role
Accountable for the design of relevant teamwear apparel collections which are aligned to the commercial brief and the product range-plans, this role will be working on multi product apparel for teams/sports/partners within our portfolio and joining a very hands-on, self-motivated teamwear team.
This role is on a freelance basis required for approximately three months.
Roles & Responsibilities
- Apparel Design - Create innovative designs for sports apparel across stocked and made to order (MTO) teamwear ranges, ensuring they align with Castore’s standards and market requirements
- Graphic Design - Design a range of visual designs to meet the needs of multiple sports and channels across teamwear from traditional to progressive designs to inspire our customers
- Lead the insights discovery for the category team to identify opportunities in market based on consumer needs and versus competition insights and share cross functionally to combine with commercial inputs to create a range that is fit for purpose
- Contribute throughout the critical path in collaboration with product development and category management to ensure consistency from initial concept to final delivery
- Demonstrate an excellent understanding of teamwear industry knowledge in conjunction with garment construction, materials, and manufacturing processes to create designs that are progressive whilst maintaining their functional requirements for the teamwear channel
- Support teamwear marketing team with development of materials such as catalogues and eCommerce assets to inspire customers and consumers and generate demand
Knowledge and Experience
- Apparel design experience working in similar business environment.
- Degree in apparel design or similar field desirable.
- High level of proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite
- An understanding of the sports apparel market across trends, materials and designs
- Experience working cross-functionally, liaising with peer groups across a business to drive efficiencies and results.
- Experience working with consumers and customers to understand insights and convert to propositions
- Working within strict deadlines and able to be adaptive to changes.
- Comfortable in a fast-paced and ever-changing business environment with the ability to respond as needed within an appropriate timeframe.
Personal Qualities
- A passion for team sports and desire to understand the needs of consumers and customers within the teamwear market
- Requires excellent interpersonal skills, must be approachable, personable with a positive attitude, willing to help and provide support as needed. A team player
- Excellent written communication, ability to present ideas on paper clearly, concisely, and accurately to both internal and external stakeholders
- Able to make decisions on work issues that impact the successful completion of tasks.
- Ability to analyse data, insights and trends and use as a basis to solve problems.
- Flexible approach and willingness to further learn
- Have a Better Never Stops Attitude
- Passion for the brand
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Designer (Freelance) in Manchester
✨Put Your Work on Display
As a freelancer in the fashion-apparel sector, your portfolio is your best friend. Make sure to create an eye-catching online presence—think stylish website or Instagram page showcasing your designs. This is where your creativity can shine and attract potential clients like Castore!
✨Join Fashion Communities
Get involved in fashion communities, both online and offline. Websites like Behance or DeviantArt are great for showcasing your work, while attending local fashion events or trade shows can help you network with brands and potential clients, opening doors for freelance gigs.
✨Leverage Social Media Marketing
As a freelancer, social media is your marketing engine. Start sharing your creations on platforms like Instagram and TikTok with relevant hashtags to build visibility in the fashion scene. Engage with other creators and brands to boost your discoverability—who knows, Castore might just stumble upon your work!
✨Pitch Directly to Brands
Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you; be proactive! Research brands you love, like Castore, and reach out with tailored pitches and links to your portfolio. Show them how your unique style can add value to their brand, and you could land some exciting freelance opportunities.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Style with a Portfolio:As a freelance fashion-apparel professional, your portfolio is your best friend! Make sure to include a diverse range of your work that reflects your unique style and versatility. Whether it's sketches, completed outfits, or even photoshoots you've styled, these visuals speak volumes about your capabilities.
Tailor Your CV to Fashion Trends:When crafting your CV, highlight any relevant experience in the fashion industry. List your design skills, any fashion shows you’ve participated in, and collaborations with other creatives. Don’t forget to mention current trends you’re familiar with – this shows you’re in tune with what’s happening in the industry!
Specify Your Rates and Availability:Since this is a freelance gig, be upfront about your rates and availability in your application. It helps Castore to understand if you’re a good fit for their budget and timeline. A clear mention not only shows professionalism but also sets the right expectations from the get-go.
Express Your Passion for Fashion:In your cover letter, let your passion for fashion shine through! Share why you’re excited about the opportunity with Castore and how your freelance work can bring something fresh and innovative. This personal touch can make a big difference and help you stand out among other applicants.
How to prepare for a job interview at Castore
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
As a freelancer in fashion-apparel, your portfolio is your best friend. Bring along a well-curated selection of your best designs, sketches, and final products. Be prepared to explain your creative process and the inspiration behind your work—this is where you can really shine!
✨Know Your Fabrics and Trends
Brush up on the latest trends and fabric technologies relevant to your niche in fashion-apparel. Be ready to discuss how you select materials and create pieces that not only look good but also fit current market trends. It shows you’re passionate and informed, which clients love!
✨Pitch Your Unique Style
Freelancing means you’re essentially pitching yourself and your unique style. Prepare a concise elevator pitch about what makes you different as a designer. Highlight your skills, style influences, and how you can address the specific needs of Castore. The more genuine and enthusiastic you are, the better!
✨Be Ready for Collaboration Questions
Freelancers often need to work closely with clients and other creatives. Expect questions about how you handle feedback, work with teams, or adapt your designs based on client requests. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully collaborated or adapted to feedback!
