Free People Assistant Designer - Denim

Free People•Philadelphia, PA

About The Position

Free People is seeking an Assistant Designer of Denim to support the We The Free Denim design team. This role is an integral part of the design process, working closely with the Designer, Assistant Design Director and cross-functional partners to bring our denim collections to life from initial concept through development and final production. The Assistant Designer will contribute creatively to monthly and seasonal collections through trend and vintage research, sketching, wash and fabric development, technical execution and hands-on product development. This position is ideal for someone with a strong passion for denim and an elevated understanding of wash, construction, proportion and authentic vintage details. The ideal candidate is curious, highly creative and hands-on, with a strong point of view and an eagerness to grow within the denim category. They thrive in a fast-paced environment, are highly organized and detail-oriented, and are excited to contribute original ideas that feel unique to the Free People and We The Free customer.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Apparel Design or related field preferred.
1–3 years of relevant apparel design experience preferred; experience or strong demonstrated interest in denim, structured wovens or bottoms is highly desirable.
Strong passion for denim and vintage product, with an understanding of wash, fabric, construction, fit, proportion and garment details.
Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop; experience with Procreate strongly preferred.
Experience creating technical sketches, tech packs and design development packages.
Basic sewing, mocking, draping and garment construction skills.
Strong illustration and visual communication skills with the ability to communicate design ideas clearly.
Self-starter who demonstrates curiosity, initiative and a willingness to problem-solve independently while working collaboratively within a team.
Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to partner effectively across Design, Product Development, Technical Design, Fabric and Merchandising teams.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Procreate strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Contribute original design ideas through sketching, Procreate, Adobe Illustrator, AI creative tools, vintage references and physical mock-ups.
Create and maintain accurate technical sketches and design packages, clearly communicating silhouette, proportion, construction, wash, trim and finishing intent.
Set up and maintain tech packs and BOM information throughout the development process, ensuring design information remains accurate and current.
Participate actively in garment fittings, update technical sketches, and communicate relevant design, fit, and construction changes to cross-functional partners.
Partner closely with Product Development, Technical Design, Fabric R&D, Merchandising/Buying and vendor partners to track development and ensure design intent is maintained from first prototype through final product.