At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design of luxury womenswear collections and collaborate with creative teams.
- Company: Join a prestigious luxury womenswear brand known for its craftsmanship and innovation.
- Benefits: Be part of a dynamic team in a fast-paced, creative environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to work closely with top industry leaders.
- Why this job: Shape the future of luxury fashion and make your mark in the industry.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in luxury fashion design and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Mode Executive is proud to be supporting an internationally recognised luxury womenswear brand in the search for an exceptional Design Director.
Renowned for its refined aesthetic, outstanding craftsmanship and modern approach to luxury, the brand is entering an exciting new phase of global growth and is seeking a creative leader to help shape the future of its ready-to-wear collections.
Working in close partnership with the Founder & Creative Director, this is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in the continued evolution of a highly respected luxury fashion house.
Based in London, this is a full-time position working closely with the Founder & Creative Director and the CEO.
The Design Director will lead the Design Studio while collaborating across Product Development, Atelier, Production, Merchandising and Commercial teams to deliver exceptional collections from concept through to production.
The Role
- Partner with the Founder & Creative Director to translate seasonal creative direction into cohesive luxury ready-to-wear collections.
- Lead the creative development of collections across multiple product categories, ensuring a balance of innovation, craftsmanship and commercial appeal.
- Drive design excellence through silhouette, fabrication, colour, print, detailing and garment construction.
- Ensure each collection reflects the brand's distinctive identity while evolving to meet the expectations of an international luxury customer.
- Contribute to the long-term creative vision, product strategy and growth of the brand.
- Oversee the complete design process from research and concept development through fittings, sampling and final approval.
- Develop seasonal collection architecture and support range planning across categories.
- Work closely with Product Development and Production teams to ensure collections are delivered on schedule and to exceptional quality standards.
- Collaborate on fabric sourcing, trim development and material innovation.
- Support the delivery of special projects including capsule collections, collaborations, bespoke commissions and VIP dressing opportunities.
- Partner with Merchandising and Commercial teams to create commercially successful collections while protecting the integrity of the brand.
- Contribute to category planning, product mix and pricing strategy.
- Lead, mentor and develop the Design Studio, fostering a collaborative, high-performing and creative environment.
- Refine studio processes and seasonal workflows to support efficiency and excellence.
- Build strong relationships across Design, Product Development, Atelier, Production, Marketing and Commercial functions.
Requirements
- Significant experience leading luxury ready-to-wear design within an established fashion brand.
- An exceptional portfolio demonstrating a complete luxury wardrobe across multiple product categories.
- Proven experience managing seasonal collections from initial concept through to production.
- Strong expertise in garment construction, luxury fabrication and product development.
- A highly creative mindset combined with strong commercial awareness.
- Experience working closely with founders, creative directors or senior leadership within a luxury fashion environment.
- Proven ability to lead, mentor and inspire high-performing design teams.
- Strong understanding of collection architecture, range planning and category development.
- Excellent organisational, communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Experience collaborating across cross-functional teams including Product Development, Atelier, Production, Merchandising and Commercial.
- The ability to thrive within a fast-paced, entrepreneurial and creatively driven luxury business.
- A passion for craftsmanship, innovation and creating exceptional luxury products for a global customer.
Design Director – Luxury Womenswear Brand in Slough employer: Mode Executive
Mode Executive is an exceptional employer that champions creativity and innovation in the luxury fashion sector. With a fully remote work culture, employees enjoy the flexibility to collaborate across global teams while benefiting from professional growth opportunities and mentorship from industry leaders. The company fosters a supportive environment where your artistic vision can thrive, making it an ideal place for passionate individuals looking to make a significant impact in the world of luxury branding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Director – Luxury Womenswear Brand 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 Mode Executive!
✨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 Mode Executive.
✨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 Mode Executive.
✨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 Mode Executive!
We think you need these skills to ace Design Director – Luxury Womenswear Brand 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 Mode Executive.
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 Mode Executive!
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 Mode Executive. 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 Mode Executive
✨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!
