Since 1981, Karen Millen has been an iconic name in fashion, known for quality design, premium fabrics, and attention to every detail. Our brand moves fast, sets trends (we don’t follow them), and thrives on creativity and collaboration. Our passion is luxury‑level quality, and our mission is to deliver outstanding value for our customers and to make Karen Millen a truly democratic brand.
THE ROLEAt 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, harnessing the colour palettes and moods of the international catwalks. Due to our continuing growth, we are now looking for an experienced Softs designer to join our passionate, agile and creative team.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING- Ensure the development of the collection and trends each season for your department.
- Source and develop fabrics for each month to suit your product range.
- Forecast trends to bring newness and fashionability into the ranges with original, detailed designs.
- Produce in‑season catwalk analysis for your department to underpin your range direction.
- Propose balanced ranges covering customer attitudes, creating total looks and considering end‑uses and lifestyle.
- Confidently lead the fit and seal process in our fit sessions, with tech.
- Innovate on bestsellers to protect the commercial baseline of the range.
- Demonstrate awareness of what is new in fashion on the street, in competition and designer collections; drive this into the product ranges.
- Contribute to seasonal research and develop on‑brand macro trends at season launch alongside the Head of Design and design team.
- Manage the critical path to hit design deadlines, plan the travel calendar, and safeguard products through development to booking stage.
- Work closely with buying and the senior team to build range and cultivate supplier relationships.
- Onboard new suppliers to deliver exceptional quality and value for the customer.
- Plan seasonal shoot campaigns with the Head of Design.
- Demonstrated background in womenswear softs/woven design.
- A degree in Fashion Design or a related discipline.
- Experience with hand drawing, Photoshop and Illustrator.
- In‑depth knowledge of textiles, garment construction and fit, with a strong technical foundation.
- A professional who embraces accountability and attention to detail throughout the product journey.
- A motivating and inspiring personality who can nurture and develop direct reports.
- Professional, focused and driven to bring cohesion and clarity to the range and team.
- Creative problem‑solving and the ability to think on your feet.
- Agility, adaptability and willingness to travel offshore and locally.
- Creativity, organisation and passion for fashion.
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 USOur mission is to create a workplace where everyone is respected, 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- Highly competitive bonus scheme, company pension, share schemes, private medical cover and life assurance
- Discounts across all brands
- Comprehensive wellbeing package
- Ongoing learning and development with strong internal progression
- Free season ticket loan
Softs Designer in London employer: Karen Millen
At Karen Millen, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture in the heart of London. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our ongoing learning and development opportunities, alongside a highly competitive benefits package that includes bonuses, private medical cover, and discounts across all brands. Join us to be part of a dynamic team where your creativity can flourish and make a real impact in the ever-evolving world of fashion.
