Concept Designer - Women’s Accessories, Footwear & Sleepwear, Hybrid (Seattle, WA)

Nordstrom•Seattle, WA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

Nordstrom Made develops, designs, produces, and sources more than 50 private Nordstrom labels. The Concept Designer delivers brand-informed seasonal concepts with leadership oversight and helps shape brand-level retail strategies by applying product design, market analysis, and data analytics. The role identifies and curates color palettes, trends, print and pattern, fabric, and silhouette information for specific brands. Working with the Sr. Manager of Concept and Concept Director, the designer develops and communicates seasonal conceptual stories, and collaborates with the Design Director and partners to implement and execute those ideas. The position is based at Nordstrom’s downtown Seattle headquarters and follows a hybrid work model: four days in the office and one remote workday each week. Seasonal travel for research and/or product development is required. Applicants must include a PDF or link to a portfolio in addition to their resume.

Requirements

Strong design and conceptual skills.
Strong knowledge of textiles, artwork techniques, and fabric.
Proficiency in Illustrator and capability with Microsoft tools, Photoshop, InDesign, Miro, and related tools.
Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills.
College degree in Fashion Design, Textiles, or a related field.
Ability to identify key trends and determine how they relate to a brand and consumer.
Strong analytical skills and ability to identify patterns.
Ability to manage multiple competing priorities simultaneously.
Strategic thinking combined with creativity and innovation.
Team-oriented approach.
Strong communication and presentation skills.
Highly organized and detail-oriented, with ability to multitask and prioritize.
Positive, passionate approach and strong problem-solving skills.
Willingness to work collaboratively and build strong relationships with business partners and teammates.

Nice To Haves

5+ years of relevant experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Deliver seasonal concepts at a brand level to Nordstrom Made partners, launching the design process and influencing brand direction.
Conduct color and trend research to support seasonal product priorities and merchant strategies.
Update and reinforce conceptual and trend information as new insights become available, monitoring fashion publications, social media, and runways.
Shop the market competitively, assess the landscape, and report key findings to CFTs.
Influence product decisions during development and assortment phases to support relevant, engaging customer offerings.
Identify assortments that have moved away from the original concept and recommend ways to course-correct.
Identify and champion efficiencies across multiple category reports, streamlining research and reducing workload where possible.
Manage multiple projects and timelines concurrently throughout each season, recognizing how inadequate research or missed deadlines can hinder design development.
Present to senior leadership and tailor communications to the audience.
Support the Sr. Manager in fostering partnerships with CFTs and tailor content to meet their needs.
Travel seasonally for research and/or product development.