At a Glance
- Tasks: Design trend-led collections and collaborate with teams to create cohesive seasonal ranges.
- Company: Join Debenhams Group, a dynamic brand transforming the retail landscape.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive bonuses, discounts, and a comprehensive wellbeing package.
- Other info: Embrace innovation and make a real impact in a supportive workplace.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team shaping the future of fashion in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in womenswear design, strong skills in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
ABOUT US
At Debenhams Group, we are on a journey of transformation, revitalising our brand, culture, and connection with colleagues and customers alike. In a fast-changing retail environment, effective and authentic communication is vital to building trust, aligning our teams, and amplifying the impact of our work across internal and external audiences.
Our in-house design team is obsessed with detail. We interpret trends to serve our customer, drawing inspiration from the colour palettes, silhouettes and moods seen across international catwalks, street style and the wider competitive market.
We are looking for an experienced Softs Multi-Product Designer to join our passionate, agile and creative team.
THE ROLE
This is an exciting opportunity for a commercially driven designer with strong trend awareness and the ability to independently design and develop collections. As one of our brand designers, you will create trend-led, creative and commercially balanced woven multi-product ranges that respond to customer briefs and brand handwriting. Working closely with the buying, print design, garment technology and cold-weather teams, you will help deliver cohesive seasonal collections and complete customer looks. You will take ownership of your product areas from initial concept and trend research through to fit, development and more. This role will be based out of our central London office.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
- Identifying emerging trends and influencing the business at critical points.
- Producing in-season catwalk, street-style and competitor analysis to support the direction of your ranges.
- Taking lead on creating inspiring trend mood boards, colour palettes, and design direction, ensuring brand DNA is maintained whilst continually searching for new opportunities.
- Sourcing and developing new fabrics and creating custom embellishments and embroidery across the ranges.
- Working closely with the print designers to create elevated, unique products through engineered placement and hero prints which deliver newness and best-in-class products.
- Producing detailed hand drawings, CADs and design specifications using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
- Innovating and evolving bestsellers to protect the commercial baseline of the range, responding to trade reactions.
- Working collaboratively with buyers, merchandising and cold weather teams to range-build and ensure the collection is balanced, cohesive and commercially focused.
- Confidently contributing to fit and seal sessions with the garment technology team, protecting the original design intent.
- Remaining open to UK and international travel to build supplier relations and research trips.
WHAT WE LOOK FOR
- Demonstrated experience in womenswear softs and woven multi-product design.
- A minimum of five years’ relevant industry experience.
- A degree in Fashion Design or a related discipline.
- Strong hand-drawing skills and proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
- A portfolio demonstrating strong trend awareness, commercial judgement and an understanding of the Debenhams customer.
- In-depth knowledge of textiles, woven fabrics, garment construction and fit.
- A strong technical foundation and understanding of the product-development process.
- Strong organisation and critical-path management skills with the ability to manage multiple products, collections and deadlines.
- A professional, focused and collaborative approach.
- The ability to think on your feet and solve problems creatively.
- Agility, adaptability and confidence working in a fast-changing retail environment.
- A genuine passion for fashion, product and the customer.
- Open mind and willingness to embrace AI in the workplace.
WORKING WITH US
At Debenhams Group we thrive on change, innovation, and pace. Every challenge is an opportunity, and every day is a chance to push boundaries. If you’re someone who embraces the unknown, thrives in a fast-moving, high-growth environment, and is ready to shape the future of retail, you’ll love it here. We want visionaries, disruptors, and doers—people who bring fresh thinking, relentless energy, and the drive to make an impact.
WHY JOIN US
Our mission is to create a workplace where everyone is respected, individual differences are valued, and people can be themselves at work — without exception. 2025 was a year of significant change for the Group. 2026 is about bold moves, real results and unstoppable momentum. If that excites you, you belong at Debenhams Group.
Our benefits include (subject to level and eligibility): Highly competitive bonus scheme, company pension, share schemes, private medical cover and life assurance, discount across all brands, comprehensive wellbeing package, ongoing learning and development with strong internal progression, free season ticket loan.
Designer employer: Debenhams Group
At Karen Millen, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and inclusive work culture. As a Buying Admin Assistant, you'll benefit from comprehensive training and development opportunities, allowing you to grow your career in the fashion industry while working in a vibrant location. Our commitment to employee well-being and collaboration ensures that you will thrive in a supportive environment where your contributions are valued.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Designer
✨Get Down to the Fashion Events
Dive headfirst into local fashion shows, trade fairs, and networking events. These are golden opportunities to meet industry pros and showcase your passion for the industry in person. Plus, it gives you the chance to chat about potential roles at places like Debenhams Group!
✨Join Fashion-Focused Communities
Become a part of online fashion communities on platforms like Instagram or Pinterest. Participate in discussions and share your insights on trends or your personal style journey. It’s a great way to get noticed by brands looking to fill positions, including Debenhams Group.
✨Craft a Rock-Solid Portfolio
Since you're aiming for a full-time gig, your portfolio should reflect not just your best work but also your personality. Whether it’s lookbooks, design sketches, or styling projects, make sure it screams 'you' and includes a bit about why you’d be a perfect fit for Debenhams Group.
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re fresh out of university, don’t underestimate your career services. They often have partnerships with fashion companies for internships and entry-level roles. Use this to your advantage and connect with them to find any openings at Debenhams Group!
We think you need these skills to ace Designer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Style:In the fashion-apparel industry, your personal style and understanding of current trends are crucial. Make sure your CV and cover letter reflect your unique fashion sense – use visuals if you can and highlight any fashion-related experiences or projects that show off your flair!
Highlight Relevant Experience:When you're applying for a full-time role, be sure to focus on any past roles or internships in fashion that’ve honed your skills. Whether that's working in retail, fashion design, or marketing, quantify your achievements and show how they relate to the role at Debenhams Group.
Include a Strong Portfolio:An impressive portfolio is key in fashion! Make sure to include a link to your online portfolio in your CV, showcasing your best work, be it designs, campaigns, or styling projects. This is your chance to let your creativity shine and demonstrate your abilities to Debenhams Group!
Craft a Standout Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to weave in your passion for fashion and the specific reasons you want to work at Debenhams Group. Share your vision of how you'd contribute to their brand and why you're excited about their work. Tailoring this will make you stand out from the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at Debenhams Group
✨Showcase Your Style Portfolio
For a role in the fashion-apparel industry, having a well-curated portfolio is essential. Ensure you include your best work that reflects your style and creativity, whether it's sketches, lookbooks, or completed designs. Be ready to discuss your design process and the inspirations behind your pieces!
✨Know the Latest Trends and Brands
Being well-versed in current fashion trends and influential brands can give you a leg up in the interview. Get familiar with what’s trending in the market and know your competitors. This shows your passion for the industry and helps you connect your work experience to current fashion trajectories.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaboration Skills
In a full-time fashion role, collaboration is key, whether you’re working with designers, marketers, or suppliers. Be prepared to share experiences where you successfully worked as part of a team or navigated challenges with colleagues. This will highlight your ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Dress the Part
This might sound obvious, but in fashion, how you present yourself is part of your brand. Wear something that represents your personal style while still aligning with the company’s aesthetic. It’s a great way to show you understand the industry's essence and can embody the brand’s image!
