At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop trend-led collections while collaborating with various teams.
- Company: Dynamic fashion brand based in central London, focused on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive bonus, pension, private medical cover, and discounts across brands.
- Other info: Opportunities for travel and professional growth in a fast-paced environment.
- Why this job: Join a creative team and make your mark in the fashion industry.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in womenswear design, strong skills in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
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.
Looking at opportunities to react quickly, with strong understanding of the supply base and how to get quick reads on product, ensuring we are market leaders.
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.
Any previous experience is a bonus.
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 #J-18808-Ljbffr
Designer in London employer: Debenhams
Debenhams in Manchester is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development and the chance to make a meaningful impact through innovative CRM strategies. Our commitment to data-driven decision-making ensures that you will be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to enhancing customer engagement and retention.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Designer in London
✨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!
✨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.
✨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.
✨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!
We think you need these skills to ace Designer in London
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.
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!
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. 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
✨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!
