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- Tasks: Support the design team in creating trendy kidswear collections and develop your design skills.
- Company: Join Matalan, a dynamic retail innovator with an inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 20% staff discount, wellbeing support, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your design career while making a real impact in kidswear fashion.
- Qualifications: Passion for design, creativity, and familiarity with design software.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with strong growth potential and supportive team culture.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 ÂŁ per month.
As a Trainee Homeware Designer you will support the wider Design team in the development of seasonal ranges while building core design, technical and commercial capability. The role works closely with Designers and cross‑functional partners, contributing insight, energy and creativity while developing core skills and gaining industry experience within the Design and wider Product Team.
- Product & Design Support
- Support the Assistant Designer and Designer in the development of seasonal ranges.
- Learn how to develop clear, accurate and cost‑conscious technical packs under guidance.
- Assist with the product development activity, ensuring specifications and expectations are clearly communicated.
- Attend and support preparation for selection, sign‑off and fit sessions, capturing actions and decisions.
- Build an understanding of trade performance, learning how best and worst sellers influence future design decisions.
- Actively research trends, consumer behaviour, and competitor activity to support informed design decisions.
- Contribute new ideas and trend interpretations that support innovative, on‑brand product development.
- Support the creation of mood boards, styling rooms, key shapes, and colour palettes.
- Share insight with the wider team to inform category and seasonal discussions.
- Communicate clearly and professionally with the supply base under guidance, supporting strong working relationships.
- Develop knowledge of the department and product area, actively seeking feedback, coaching, and development.
- Carry out preparation for key meetings, including trend presentations, workshops, selections, signoffs, and supplier meetings.
- Collaborate with fellow Trainee Designers and wider Product teams to support in timely delivery of the critical path.
- Demonstrate curiosity, organisation, and a proactive approach to learning in a fast‑paced environment.
Experience in a fast‑paced omni‑channel retail environment advantageous. Commercial awareness of the product market, with an eye for identifying opportunities and trends. Ability to analyse market trends and insights to inform design direction effectively. Analytical and problem‑solving capabilities to navigate challenges and enhance product offerings. Skilled in using design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, CAD, AI) to bring ideas to life with precision. Experience of working across short, medium, and long‑term timelines while adapting to changing priorities. Ability to present ideas with clarity and impact, effectively communicating design concepts to stakeholders. Organisational skills with a keen attention to detail, ensuring projects meet quality standards.
We know as a team, we are stronger together – we champion equality for all and make lasting connections that go beyond work. We thrive off our inclusive culture, encouraging our colleagues to bring their true selves to work and contributing to collective creativity, open‑mindedness and growth.
We want to give every candidate the opportunity to perform at their best throughout the application and interview process and then ultimately in their role. If you require any adjustments during our recruitment process, please don’t hesitate to let us know.
In the event that a high volume of suitable applications are received, the post may close prior to the specified closing date. Please apply as soon as possible if interested.
In addition to competitive salaries, we also offer the below core benefits:
- 20% staff discount, which increases with length of service
- Thrive Recognition Scheme
- Wellbeing support provided by the Retail Trust
- Life Assurance
- Retail Rewards platform offering discounts for other retailers
- Pension Scheme
- Access to a wide range of career development
- Additional benefits may apply depending on your role and area of the business
Trainee Designer - Kidswear in London employer: Matalan
Contact Detail:
Matalan Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Designer - Kidswear in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get your portfolio sorted! Make sure it showcases your best work and highlights your design skills. We want to see your creativity and how you interpret trends, so include a variety of projects that reflect your style.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with industry professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Join design groups, attend events, and don’t be shy about reaching out for informational chats. We’re all about building relationships that can lead to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to talk about your design process, inspirations, and how you tackle challenges. We love candidates who can communicate their ideas clearly and confidently, so rehearse your story before interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the latest roles there, so keep checking back for new opportunities in design.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Designer - Kidswear in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Creative Side: When you're putting together your application, let your creativity shine! Use your design skills to create a visually appealing portfolio that showcases your best work. Remember, this is your chance to impress us with your unique style and ideas.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application for the Trainee Designer role. Highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our team, so be specific about what you bring to the table!
Research and Reflect: Take some time to research current trends in kidswear and reflect on how they influence your design choices. Mentioning these insights in your application will show us that you're not just passionate about design, but also aware of the market landscape.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us that you're keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Matalan
✨Know Your Trends
Before the interview, dive deep into current trends in kidswear. Research what’s hot and what’s not, and be ready to discuss how these trends can influence your design ideas. This shows you’re not just passionate but also informed about the market.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Bring along a portfolio that highlights your design work, especially any projects related to kidswear. Make sure to include mood boards, sketches, or any digital designs you've created using software like Adobe Creative Suite. This will give you a chance to demonstrate your technical skills and creativity.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the company’s design process or their approach to seasonal ranges. This not only shows your interest in the role but also your eagerness to learn and contribute to the team.
✨Be Proactive and Engaged
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for learning and collaborating with others. Share examples of how you’ve worked in teams or adapted to fast-paced environments. This will highlight your proactive attitude and readiness to grow within the company.
