At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the design of trendy women's accessories and bring creative ideas to life.
- Company: Dune London, a leading affordable luxury footwear and accessories brand.
- Benefits: 60% employee discount, 25 days holiday, blended working, and team socials.
- Other info: Join a friendly culture that values creativity and personal development.
- Why this job: Kick-start your fashion career with hands-on experience in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Fashion or Accessories Design and proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
About us
Dune London is the leading affordable luxury footwear and accessories brand in the UK, with broad distribution across both the UK and internationally. It has 50 stores in the UK and over 100 in 25 countries around the world. The company is entering a period of sustained growth both through expansion of sales on its online channels and through third party partners both in the UK and globally. Celebrating over 30 years in the industry, the Dune group has built an enviable position as the specialist in quality fashion footwear and accessories which has given it a unique position at the high end of the high street.
About the role
This is a fantastic role for a creative and ambitious graduate looking to break into the world of accessories design. As a Design Assistant, you’ll support the creation of our women’s accessories collections across handbags, lifestyle products, and small leather goods. Working closely with the Design Manager, you’ll help bring ideas to life and contribute to trend‑led, commercially successful ranges that reflect the Dune London brand.
About you
- We’re looking for a passionate and detail‑driven individual with a strong creative flair and a desire to grow within a fast‑paced fashion environment.
- A highly creative mindset with excellent attention to detail.
- Proficiency in design software such as Adobe Illustrator.
- A good understanding of fashion trends and the accessories market.
- Strong organisational and communication skills.
- A proactive attitude with a willingness to learn and develop.
This is a brilliant opportunity for graduates or early-career designers to gain hands‑on experience and build a career with a leading fashion brand.
Responsibilities
- Trend Research: Stay ahead of the curve by monitoring fashion, market, and consumer trends, including social media and influencers, translating insights into fresh and relevant design ideas.
- Concept Development: Support the creation of seasonal concepts, including the development of innovative designs and hardware trims.
- Sketching & Technical Drawing: Bring ideas to life through detailed hand sketches and CAD drawings using design software such as Adobe Illustrator.
- Material & Colour Selection: Research and source materials, trims, hardware, colours, and finishes that align with the Dune London aesthetic and elevate the product offering.
- Sample Development Support: Assist in preparing design specifications and support the development of prototypes and samples through to final approval.
- Design Documentation: Maintain accurate tech packs and clear design specifications, and liaise with suppliers to track and manage sample progress.
- Presentation Preparation: Contribute to the creation of inspiring mood boards and design presentations for internal reviews and key seasonal meetings.
- Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with the footwear team and wider business to ensure alignment across seasonal collections.
- Brand Alignment: Demonstrate a passion for product, fashion, and accessories, with a strong understanding of the Dune London customer and brand identity.
Experience, Skills & Competencies
- Degree in Fashion or Accessories Design (or equivalent), with openness to exceptional graduates with a strong portfolio.
- Proven ability in sketching, CAD design, and creating technical specifications.
- Understanding of product development processes, including sampling and prototypes.
- Strong creative vision with commercial awareness and a good understanding of fashion and social media trends.
- Knowledge of materials, trims, hardware, and manufacturing techniques for accessories.
- High attention to detail with the ability to produce accurate tech packs and maintain quality standards.
- Confident communicator with strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple deadlines.
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and familiarity with AI‑led design/trend tools.
About the perks
- Blended working – spreading your time across our office and remote working.
- Sustainable office in bustling West London (near Westfield).
- Friendly and open culture with flat structures allowing plenty of opportunity for development.
- Company growth and opportunity; Dune is evolving all the time.
- Open‑minded company, welcoming thoughts and ideas to be shared.
- Working with charitable organisations to help raise funds and give something back. Our current charity partner is Mental Health UK.
- 60% employee discount on Dune products – what’s not to love!
- 25 days holiday (plus the bank holidays).
- Cycle2work.
- Company pension scheme.
- Life assurance for all team members.
- We look after our people.
- 3.00 p.m. finish every pay day Friday!
- Team socials and drinks – we like to have fun!
- Access to our employee assistance programme, retailTRUST, who provide loads of resources to support with wellbeing and personal development offer free counselling legal advice and financial guidance.
- Our own Wellbeing Allies – there to talk when you need them.
Accessories Design Assistant employer: Dune
Dune London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and creative work environment in the heart of West London. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the company provides ample opportunities for development through hands-on experience in fashion design, alongside a supportive culture that values open communication and innovative ideas. Employees enjoy a range of benefits including a generous discount on products, flexible working arrangements, and a focus on wellbeing, making it an ideal place for aspiring designers to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Accessories Design Assistant
✨Get to Know the Fashion Scene
Dive into fashion events, local runway shows, and trade fairs. This is where you'll find industry insiders and potential leads for internships, plus you’ll get a real feel for what’s hot right now!
✨Show Off Your Creativity
Have an eye for style? Start a fashion blog or an Instagram account showcasing your personal style or designs. This can really catch the eye of brands like Dune and let them see your passion and flair before you even apply!
✨Use University Resources
If you’re at uni, check in with your career services. They often have connections with fashion brands and can hook you up with exclusive internship opportunities. Plus, don’t forget to ask about any workshops or connections they might have!
✨Go Directly to the Source
When you find a role you're keen on, apply directly through our website. Show your enthusiasm by tailoring your application—mention why you love Dune and how you can contribute to their vision right from the get-go!
We think you need these skills to ace Accessories Design Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Style:When applying for a fashion-apparel internship like the one at Dune, make sure your personal style shines through in your CV and cover letter. Use visuals if you can, and don't be afraid to sprinkle in some creativity – after all, we're in the fashion industry!
Relevant Experience is Key:Even if you're just starting out, highlight any relevant experience you’ve got, whether it's a fashion-related project, volunteer work, or courses you've taken. Mentioning specific skills like trend forecasting or knowledge of fabric types will make you stand out as a passionate candidate keen to learn more in the internship.
Craft Your Motivation:In your cover letter, share why you’re excited about the fashion world and what drives you to apply for this internship at Dune. Employers love to see genuine enthusiasm and how eager you are to absorb knowledge and grow in your role.
Be Prepared with a Portfolio:If you have any design sketches or previous fashion projects, be sure to mention them and, if possible, include a link to your portfolio. A well-curated selection of your work can showcase your skills and aesthetic, giving a concrete taste of what you can bring to Dune.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dune
✨Show Off Your Style Smarts
For a fashion internship, your knowledge of current trends and industry leaders is crucial. Brush up on the latest collections, fabrics, and sustainable fashion practices. Being able to chat about your favourite designers or recent fashion shows will definitely impress Dune.
✨Portfolio Power
Even as an intern, having a portfolio showcasing your work can set you apart. Make sure to include any relevant sketches, mood boards, or projects you've done, even if they're from college. We, at StudySmarter, recommend arranging it in a visually pleasing way to reflect your personal style.
✨Flaunt Your Flexibility
Interns in fashion need to be adaptable and quick learners, so be ready to share examples of times when you’ve had to think on your feet. Give a couple of instances where you successfully adapted to fast-paced environments, as this will resonate well with the team at Dune.
✨Questions to Shine
Come prepared with thoughtful questions that show you're keen to learn. Ask about Dune’s design process, the materials they love using, or their thoughts on an upcoming trend. This not only demonstrates your interest but allows you to assess if the culture is the right fit for you!
