Assistant Designer - Headwear, Concepts & Licensing

The Assistant Accessories Designer, Headwear, Concepts & Licensing supports the design and development of both men's and women's headwear for Mainline product line while also helping with seasonal concept initiatives and licensed product categories. This role partners closely with Design, Product Development, Merchandising, licensed external partners to translate seasonal creative direction into compelling, brand-right product.

The ideal candidate has a strong design eye, sensitive to emerging trends, an understanding of headwear construction and materials, and the ability to balance creative concept development with detailed product execution. This position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects within a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES/ACCOUNTABILITIES OF THE JOB:

• Support the design and development of seasonal headwear collections from initial concept through final product.
• Assist in translating seasonal brand direction, consumer insights, and market trends into relevant headwear concepts.
• Manage and facilitate the Centric/PLM data input and uploading for all Headwear (proto, CPV, SMS, Bulk)
• Work with the design team to create and manage the style numbers in CFT shared doc and transfer to linesheets.
• Starting at co-creation and range plan share out, work with Design to create and maintain headwear linesheets at each stage of the design process in Miro.
• Create concept boards, trend research, color and material direction, and product presentations for seasonal milestones.
• Support licensed product lines, ensuring product aligns with brand standards, seasonal creative direction, and commercial objectives.
• Review licensed partner submissions and provide clear design feedback related to silhouette, proportion, materials, color, graphics, logos, trims, and overall brand execution.
• Create and maintain detailed design specifications, CADs, artwork, colorways, material callouts, and design comments.
• Develop and execute logo, graphic, embroidery, patch, print, hardware, and other branding concepts appropriate for headwear.
• Utilizing 3D modeling systems and Ai software help to ideate on seasonal hardwares & trim development
• Research new materials, constructions, washes, finishes, trims, and manufacturing techniques to drive innovation and newness.
• Partner with Product Development and vendors to ensure design intent is maintained throughout sampling and development.
• Review prototypes and samples, providing clear and actionable comments on fit, proportion, construction, materials, color, and execution.
• Maintain accurate seasonal design files, artwork, presentations, and product information within established systems and processes.
• Support preparation for seasonal milestones, design reviews, presentations, and cross-functional meetings.
• Collaborate with Apparel, Accessories, Footwear, and other categories to create cohesive seasonal stories and identify cross-category opportunities.
• Stay informed on headwear, fashion, culture, streetwear, and competitive market trends.
• Manage multiple projects and deadlines while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.

Experience:

• 1-3 years of relevant design experience; internship or professional experience in headwear, accessories, apparel, or licensed product is a plus.

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design, Accessories Design, Industrial Design, or a related field preferred.

Skills:

• Understanding of headwear construction, materials, trims, graphics, embroidery, and manufacturing techniques preferred.
• Experience with embellishment techniques
• Ability to sketch by hand and on the computer
• Strong proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
• Proficiency in 3D modeling is a strong plus and will be a key differentiator when evaluating candidates.
• Experience in PLM a plus
• Experience in Miro a plus
• Ability to meet overlapping deadlines
• Detail oriented with strong organizational skills
• Ability to multitask and be flexible to support a fast-paced environment
• Excellent time management skills
• Resourcefulness in problem solving
• Great written and verbal communication
• Self-motivated with the ability to work as part of a team
• Faces new challenges with optimism and perseverance
• Collaborative attitude

INTERNAL & EXTERNAL CONTACTS:

NY Accessories Design team, NY PD team, Asia PD team, NY Global Merch team

External: Material Vendors, Licensing Partners

DECISION MAKING:

• Must be flexible and responsive to design and calendar changes
• Must be able to prioritize and multi-task effectively
• Candidate should be able to work independently and be resourceful, with the ability to communicate and ask questions when needed.