Associate Designer - Madewell Handbags

Madewell • New York, NY

1d • $64,200 - $79,600 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Handbags Associate Designer will support the Sr. Designer in developing seasonal handbag collections from concept through production. This role requires strong creative sensibility, organizational skills, and the ability to translate design vision into compelling, commercially viable products while meeting key development milestones.

Requirements

• 2–4 years of design experience, preferably in handbags or accessories
• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design or related field
• Strong aesthetic sensibility with a high level of creativity and attention to detail
• Excellent presentation and visual communication skills
• Strong illustration and sketching abilities (hand and digital)
• Knowledge of handbag construction, materials, hardware, and trims
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proactive, detail-oriented, and able to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Collaborative team player with strong follow-through
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop; working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel

Nice To Haves

• We welcome you to apply, even if you don't check all the boxes. Our passion is scouting life-long learners who are driven by curiosity, and who feel connected to our brands and share our desire to make an impact. We’re always seeking bright new talent who leverage their unique experiences to discover, grow and evolve with our teams.

Responsibilities

• Partner closely with Sr. Designer to develop concepts, silhouette direction, materials, and color stories for seasonal handbag assortments.
• Create and maintain professional presentation boards including sketches, inspiration imagery, materials, hardware, and construction details.
• Research and interpret seasonal trends, themes, and detail direction relevant to handbags and accessories.
• Organize and manage material, color, and hardware libraries; prepare samples and standards for milestone meetings.
• Execute and maintain seasonal line lists, ensuring alignment with the product development calendar and key deadlines.
• Collaborate with Technical Design to ensure accuracy of specifications from initial concept through technical design packages.
• Participate in fittings, reviews, and product walkthroughs with the Designer or Design Director.
• Work cross-functionally with Production to maintain design intent throughout the development and production process.
• Track development progress and proactively follow up on outstanding items to ensure timely execution.

Benefits

• Eligible associates and family members receive medical, dental, prescription and vision insurance, family planning (fertility, adoption & surrogacy support), fitness discounts, medical travel and more.
• We love our products just as much as you do! That’s why we offer a great associate discount across all of our brands (J.Crew, J.Crew Factory, and Madewell).
• In addition to our hybrid work model, we also close our office at 1:00 PM every Friday during the Summer months.
• We support the communities where we live and work through our philanthropic efforts and the J.Crew Cares Program.
• In addition to our PTO package, J.Crew Group offers a winter break at the end of December to eligible full-time associates at the Home Office to provide time to refresh and recharge.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level