Vans: Designer, Accessories
About The Position
Vans is the original brand rooted in the authentic lifestyle of skateboarding. We are driven by our mission to inspire and empower everyone to live “Off The Wall” – embracing the youthful spirit of freedom, non-conformity, and relentless progression. Yesterday’s “Off The Wall” moment is today’s new normal, and at Vans, we believe in constantly outdoing ourselves. Together with our communities across the globe, our vision is to push culture forward because we believe that the pursuit of progression never ends. We are constantly inspired by the future generation of positive catalysts within our community. So, before we get to the job details, take a minute to learn a little more about us – our values and our culture. If you can see yourself working side-by-side with a team of people who think and live “Off the Wall,” Vans just may be the place for you. To learn more about our values and our culture, visit Vans Careers or www.vans.com. What will you do? A day in the life of an Accessories Designer at Vans looks a little like this. The Accessories Designer is a key member of the Global Apparel & Accessories team, contributing to design direction and execution across all regions. This role partners closely with Merchandising and Development to move ideas from early concept through pre‑production, delivering innovative, trend‑right product with precision, timeliness, and a high standard of craft. They understand that accessories reach far beyond bags and hats—and they’re energized by exploring new categories, new formats, and new ways accessories can show up for our consumer. This role reports to the Senior Designer, Accessories. Let’s break down that day-in-the-life a bit more.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in design or equivalent experience in accessories or apparel.
- Expert knowledge of the Adobe Suite
- Excellent sense of style and color
- Thorough knowledge of the global lifestyle/action sports market
- Possess strong presentation, listening, verbal, and written communication skills
- Ability to multitask managing design work with business requests
- In-depth knowledge of design techniques and processes
- Comprehension in manufacturing process — design, development, fit and production
- Capable of contributing to the design process with the team and partnering with product development
- Follows through with all tasks, assignments to meet product development calendar
- Ability to read, analyze and interpret policies, procedures and other business practices, guidelines and documents
- Location requirement: Hybrid schedule in-office in Costa Mesa, CA.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in 3D and Generative AI is a plus
- Demonstrates the ability to synthesize aesthetic inspiration from vintage, forward‑thinking design, and mainstream consumer expectations to create relevant, compelling product concepts
- Has a strong grasp of pop culture and actively researches emerging trends, cultural shifts, and niche references, translating them into meaningful design insights and products.
Responsibilities
- Responsible for market research, creating seasonal inspiration boards, designs, tech pack creation, and fit.
- Determine material selection, color details, and styling details.
- Responsible for knowledge of cost components and ability to design products that hit margin targets.
- Create computer design; sketches, graphics, print artwork, multiple colorways and storyboards.
- Create visual presentations and follow up with all design details.
- Lead presentation of designs at line reviews and product launches.
- Oversee the fitting of garments and review product details to ensure product execution meets the design aesthetic as well as commercially acceptable quality standards.
- Review details on prototypes with developer and merchandiser.
- Share responsibility for development and merchandiser for final product results.
- Adhere to all calendar dates.
Benefits
- extensive development and growth opportunities for your current and future positions
- a competitive compensation package
- a strong benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and 401(k)
- foster a diverse and inclusive culture based on respect, connection, and authenticity
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
