Manchester
Full-Time Office Based
Salary c£35k
About the Role:
We are seeking a talented and highly creative Fashion Designer specialising in Knitwear to join our dynamic team in Manchester. This role is ideal for someone with a strong background in knitwear design, passionate about trends, and experienced in working with high street retailers and fast fashion e-commerce brands. You will play a key role in developing trend-led collections that align with commercial demands while pushing the boundaries of knit innovation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design & Development:
- Create innovative and commercially viable fully fashioned knitwear designs for both high street accounts and fast fashion e-commerce platforms.
- Develop trend-focused collections across various categories, including sweaters, cardigans and co-ords.
- Work closely with the buying and merchandising teams to ensure designs meet customer profiles, price points, and brand aesthetics.
- Research and apply seasonal trends, colours, yarns, and stitch techniques to collections.
- Technical Expertise:
- Strong understanding of different knitting techniques, including jersey, rib, jacquard, intarsia, pointelle, cables, and textured knits.
- Collaborate with technical teams to ensure designs are fully fashioned, technically sound, and production-ready.
- Oversee the sampling process, providing clear technical packs and ensuring fit and quality standards are met.
- Production Liaison:
- Work closely with manufacturers both domestically and internationally to manage product development timelines.
- Trend Research & Presentation:
- Conduct regular market research, competitor analysis, and trend forecasting to stay ahead of emerging styles.
- Prepare mood boards, CADs, and design presentations for internal teams and external clients.
Key Requirements:
- Experience:
- Minimum of 3–5 years’ experience as a Knitwear Designer, preferably within the high street or fast fashion sector.
- Proven track record in designing fully fashioned knitwear with an in-depth understanding of various knit constructions.
- Skills:
- Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop), Excel, and CAD software.
- Strong technical knowledge of yarns, gauges, and garment construction.
- Ability to interpret trends into commercial products quickly and effectively.
- Excellent communication skills for cross-functional collaboration with buyers, merchandise.
- Personal Attributes:
- Trend-driven, creative thinker with strong attention to detail.
- Proactive, adaptable, and able to work in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines.
- Strong organisational and time-management skills.