At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design of seasonal menswear collections from concept to production.
- Company: Exciting contemporary menswear brand with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape product strategy and grow within a fast-scaling business.
- Other info: Mentor junior designers and thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in the fashion industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in premium fashion, strong creative vision, and commercial awareness.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Design Lead | Contemporary Menswear Brand
The Opportunity
We're partnering with a growing, design-led contemporary menswear brand, seeking a Design Lead to join the team.
Reporting directly to the Founders, you'll shape the creative direction of the brand, leading the design and development of seasonal collections from concept through to production.
This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in the growth of a fast-scaling business, creating commercially successful collections that resonate across both wholesale and direct-to-consumer channels.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the end-to-end design and development of seasonal collections.
- Create cohesive, commercially relevant product with a strong creative vision.
- Drive innovation across silhouette, fabrication and construction.
- Produce CADs, tech packs and oversee product development through to production.
- Partner closely with Merchandising, Production, Garment Technology and Marketing to deliver exceptional product and launches.
- Use customer insights and sales performance to shape future collections.
- Build strong supplier relationships and support wholesale presentations.
- Mentor junior team members and manage the seasonal design calendar.
About You
- Significant experience within premium or contemporary fashion, ideally menswear.
- Strong commercial awareness alongside exceptional creative ability.
- Proven experience leading collections from concept through to production.
- Excellent understanding of garment construction, fit and product development.
- Passionate about fashion, culture and product innovation.
- Thrives in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
The Opportunity
This is a rare chance to join a rapidly growing British fashion brand at an exciting stage of its journey, taking ownership of product strategy and helping shape the next chapter of its growth.
Design Lead in Slough employer: Elite Associates
Elite Associates is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates luxury fashion and personal client engagement. With opportunities for professional growth and a competitive salary complemented by a generous commission structure, you will be part of a pioneering team in a flagship store located in the heart of Greater London, where your contributions will shape the boutique's identity from the outset.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Lead in Slough
✨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 Elite Associates!
✨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 Elite Associates.
✨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 Elite Associates.
✨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 Elite Associates!
We think you need these skills to ace Design Lead in Slough
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 Elite Associates.
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 Elite Associates!
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 Elite Associates. 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 Elite Associates
✨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!
