At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop exciting outdoor clothing and accessories with a creative team.
- Company: Join a leading outdoor clothing brand known for innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and opportunities for growth in a dynamic environment.
- Other info: Work in a supportive team that values communication and continuous development.
- Why this job: Unleash your creativity and make an impact in the fashion industry while loving the outdoors.
- Qualifications: Degree in Fashion or Product Design and knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
Responsible to: Senior Designer
Location: JD Group Head Office, Bury, Greater Manchester
Role Overview
As both a branded and own‑brand business, we pride ourselves on delivering market‑leading ranges that include the latest and most exclusive products across our fascias. Our Design and Development team works closely with Buying, Merchandising, and our supplier base to create world‑class exclusive outdoor clothing and accessories. The Junior Clothing Designer will work closely with the Senior Designer and wider product team to support the design and development of own‑brand outdoor and technical clothing and soft accessories. This is a varied and exciting role within a supportive, collaborative product team that values open communication, creative sharing, and continuous development. The Junior Designer will contribute across multiple brands, products, and seasons, gaining hands‑on experience throughout the full design process. With guidance and mentorship from the Senior Designer, the role focuses on creating commercial, fit‑for‑purpose products that are delivered on time and aligned with each brand’s DNA and customer. This position offers an excellent opportunity for a motivated and creative designer to build technical, commercial, and trend‑led design skills within a fast‑paced retail environment.
Key Duties/Responsibilities
- Build an understanding of each Own Brand’s DNA and their customer.
- Utilise trend report platforms such as WGSN to identify emerging fashion, trims, colour and graphic trends.
- Create seasonal trend reports to help drive each brand’s seasonal direction and create customer profiles to help identify each brand’s target audience / customer.
- Take part in retail research trips / comp shops to expand own brand knowledge & understanding, build trend awareness and competitor research.
- Assist the Senior Designer in creating new seasonal collections across multiple brands.
- Design (with the support of the Senior Designer) creative, commercial and compelling outdoor and/or technical clothing and soft accessories.
- Fully utilise Pantones / Coloro systems to ensure clear colour communication throughout the business.
- Create design presentations and technical CADs.
- Present designs to the wider team and ensure all product information is clear and correct for product sign offs.
- Create clear and detailed Tech Packs and setting up artworks for manufacturing - training / guidance will be provided by the Senior Designer when and where needed.
- Ensure all CADs and Tech Packs are up to date and correct throughout the season.
- Work alongside the product development team and attend fit sessions.
- Approve lab dips, trims, bulk fabric etc. – supported by the Senior Designer and Product Developers where necessary.
- Work alongside and briefing the Graphics Designer to develop on trend graphics for each season.
- Communicate with the suppliers to ensure all design queries are answered in a timely manner.
- Work with the PLM system – training will be provided if / where necessary.
- Manage & reference the fabric library and (Pantone & Coloro) colour books.
- Liaise with the buying team to understand the direction of each brand and season.
- Cross departmental communication: collaborating with buying, merchandising, web, and marketing to ensure all product information is accurate.
Experience and skills required
- A Degree / equivalent qualification in Fashion or Product Design.
- Good working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (Including Illustrator and Acrobat) and Microsoft Office (Including Word and Excel).
- Experience in a fast‑paced working environment.
- Good time management & organisation skills – the ability to work to the critical path with attention to detail and ensure all deadlines are met.
- Strong teamwork skills are essential.
- Strong communication skills – both verbal and written.
- Positive attitude, proactive and eager to learn & develop current or new skills are essential.
- Ability to multitask, working on multiple styles, brands and seasons at once.
- Strong interest in fashion design and emerging trends – interest in outdoor / technical design is a bonus.
- Strong creative vision and love for the outdoors is beneficial.
- Familiarity of PLM systems is a plus but not necessary – training will be provided.
- Knowledge of 3D Design and AI software is advantageous but not necessary.
Junior Clothing Designer in Bury St Edmunds employer: JD GROUP
At JD Group Head Office in Bury, Greater Manchester, we offer an inspiring work environment for Junior Clothing Designers, where creativity and collaboration thrive. Our supportive culture encourages continuous development, providing ample opportunities for hands-on experience across multiple brands and products. With mentorship from experienced designers and a focus on innovative outdoor clothing, this role is perfect for those looking to grow their skills in a dynamic retail setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Clothing Designer in Bury St Edmunds
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the brands you're applying for! Dive into their DNA and customer base. This will help you tailor your approach and show that you're genuinely interested in what they do.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your creativity! When you get the chance to present your designs, make it engaging. Use visuals and tell a story about your inspiration – this will make you memorable!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Clothing Designer in Bury St Edmunds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Design:When you're writing your application, let your love for fashion and outdoor design shine through! Share any personal projects or experiences that highlight your creativity and enthusiasm for the industry.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Junior Clothing Designer role. Highlight relevant skills, experiences, and your understanding of our brands' DNA to show us why you're the perfect fit!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure to make it easy for us to see your qualifications and how you can contribute to our team.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at JD GROUP
✨Know the Brand Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into understanding the brand's DNA and target audience. Familiarise yourself with their previous collections and current trends in outdoor clothing. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also help you discuss how your design ideas can align with their vision.
✨Showcase Your Creative Process
Prepare a portfolio that highlights your design process from concept to final product. Include sketches, CADs, and any trend reports you've created. Be ready to explain your thought process and how you approach design challenges, as this will demonstrate your creativity and problem-solving skills.
✨Stay Trend-Savvy
Utilise platforms like WGSN to gather insights on emerging trends in fashion and outdoor gear. Bring examples of how these trends can be incorporated into your designs. This shows that you're proactive and have a finger on the pulse of the industry, which is crucial for a Junior Clothing Designer.
✨Practice Clear Communication
Since collaboration is key in this role, practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Prepare to discuss how you would communicate with team members and suppliers. Being able to convey your thoughts effectively will highlight your teamwork skills and ensure smooth project execution.