Free People Assistant Designer

Urban Outfitters • Philadelphia, PA

10d

About The Position

Free People is seeking an Assistant Designer to support the We The Free cut-and-sew Knitwear category. This role is a key part of the design team—working closely with designers and cross-functional partners to bring our vintage-inspired point of view to life. It blends strong trend research, an appreciation for fabric, wash, and construction, and sharp organizational and communication skills. The Design Assistant contributes to the full lifecycle of product creation, from early concepting and inspiration through development, fittings, and final line presentation. This position is ideal for someone passionate about cut-and-sew knits, with an elevated eye for fabric, finishing, and garment details. You thrive in a fast-paced, creative environment, love researching silhouettes and fabric techniques, and bring a self-starting, solution-minded approach to every step of the design process. If you are highly organized, adaptable, and excited to help build thoughtful, vintage-inspired, comfort-driven knits that express the We The Free spirit, this role will be a strong fit.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design or related field
• Passion for cut-and-sew knits, with strong interest in fashion research, fabric, wash, treatments, and construction
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop) and Microsoft Office
• Experience or familiarity with tech pack platforms (e.g. Tradestone)
• Basic garment construction skills: sewing, mocking, draping
• Strong illustration and visualization skills for communicating silhouettes, construction, and surface direction
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable managing multiple tasks and timelines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; collaborative, professional, and clear with cross-functional partners
• Receptive to feedback, solution-oriented, and curious—with a desire to grow both technical and creative skills
• Demonstrates strong time management, initiative, and an understanding of both design and business goals
• Alignment with the Free People and We The Free customer, brand aesthetic, and core values

Responsibilities

• Create and maintain accurate tech packs and BOMs in Tradestone, updating construction details, stitch + seam finishes, fabric specs, and trim information weekly
• Attend Garment Fittings and document all changes and update technical sketches as needed
• Collaborate closely with cut-and-sew knit designers and cross-functional partners (Product Development, Fabric R&D, Merchandising/Buying) to track samples, manage approvals, and ensure design intent is executed across all styles.
• Use basic mocking, draping, and sewing skills to visualize design ideas, explore proportions, etc
• Create technical sketches for cut-and-sew knit silhouettes, construction details, and surface treatments to clearly communicate concepts, fit intention, and overall emotional direction.
• Conduct ongoing trend and vintage research (market, runway, street style, social media) and share relevant inspiration that supports the Free People and We The Free brand perspective.

Benefits

• URBN offers comprehensive Perks & Benefits to employees.
• Availability and eligibility to specific benefits may be subject to your location and employment status.
• Benefits include medical, dental, vision, PTO, generous employee discounts, retirement savings and much more!
• For additional information visit www.urbn.com/work-with-us/benefits

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees