Ralph Lauren Designer, RRL

Company Description

Ralph Lauren Corporation (NYSE:RL) is a global leader in the design, marketing and distribution of premium lifestyle products in five categories: apparel, accessories, home, fragrances, and hospitality. For more than 50 years, Ralph Lauren's reputation and distinctive image have been consistently developed across an expanding number of products, brands and international markets. The Company's brand names, which include Ralph Lauren, Ralph Lauren Collection, Ralph Lauren Purple Label, Polo Ralph Lauren, Double RL, Lauren Ralph Lauren, Polo Ralph Lauren Children, Chaps, among others, constitute one of the world's most widely recognized families of consumer brands. At Ralph Lauren, we unite and inspire the communities within our company as well as those in which we serve by amplifying voices and perspectives to create a culture of belonging, ensuring inclusion, and fairness for all. We foster a culture of inclusion through: Talent, Education & Communication, Employee Groups and Celebration.

Position Overview

The Designer will play a pivotal role in supporting the RRL men's design team throughout the entire product lifecycle-from initial concept approval through production. This position focuses primarily on product design and development within the knit category, requiring a strong command of both creative vision and technical execution. The ideal candidate will bring genuine passion for the RRL brand and its heritage, demonstrating initiative and adaptability in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Success in this role requires embracing change, quickly learning new concepts and procedures, and collaborating effectively across cross-functional teams. Exceptional attention to detail, strong technical skills, and a comprehensive understanding of garment construction are essential.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Design Development & Conceptualization

• Develop innovative product concepts by curating vintage prototypes, tear sheets, sketches, fabric swatches, and trim inspiration
• Research and identify emerging market trends, runway shows, and new techniques in fabric, silhouettes, embroidery, color, pattern, trim, wash, and finishing to inform design direction
• Explore new silhouettes and develop distinctive details that align with seasonal concepts, customer aesthetic, and RRL heritage
• Create compelling inspirational design boards and sketches that effectively communicate design concepts aligned with seasonal themes Technical Design & Documentation
• Produce all technical sketches in Adobe Illustrator, including detailed multi-view layouts that capture the nuances and intricacies of each style
• Execute accurate color rendering of all sketches to properly represent the aesthetic, colorways, materials, and trims for each style
• Create and maintain comprehensive style stats for line adoptions, ensuring all documentation is updated throughout the seasonal process as changes occur
• Responsible for executing detailed style handoff packages for Product Development, Technical Design, and Fabric teams, including precise material specifications, trim details, fit direction, and wash processing requirements Cross-Functional Collaboration & Communication
• Drive alignment across cross-functional teams to ensure design integrity and product standards are met
• Serve as a key liaison to ensure seamless information flow and timely communication throughout the development process
• Ensure all submit comments are detailed, clear and executed in a timely manner
• Support preparation and execution of all design meetings, board reviews, handoffs, line reviews, and showroom openings
• Attend all fittings and clearly articulate required fit/construction changes to ensure design integrity and fit consistency Organization & Project Management
• Maintain and organize all electronic and physical design materials for easy access and reference
• Prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously to meet critical team deadlines
• Support ad hoc projects and collaborate with the creative team on special initiatives as needed
• Travel domestically and internationally as necessary for design inspiration, development shopping, and factory visits
  
  

Experience

Experience, Skills & Knowledge

• Hands-on experience in apparel design, with a proven track record in knits Brand & Product Knowledge
• Deep understanding of RRL's iconic heritage, craftsmanship standards, and brand DNA
• Genuine passion for authentic vintage clothing with extensive knowledge of historical sportswear, military, western, and workwear references
• Expert eye for washing techniques, patinas, and artisanal details that define timeless, authentic style
• Strong vintage aesthetic sensibility with ability to translate historical references into modern, commercially viable designs Technical Skills
• Expert-level proficiency in flat sketching and color rendering with strong illustration capabilities
• Advanced knowledge of garment construction, knit fabrications, and finishing techniques
• Strong understanding of pattern making and garment fit principles
• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, XD)
• Proficient in Web PLM and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook)
• Portfolio showcasing independently driven design work Core Competencies
• Confident presenter capable of articulating design vision to senior leadership
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to influence and guide development direction
• Exceptional attention to detail with a meticulous approach to design specifications and technical documentation
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously and on calendar
• Collaborative team player with strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively across departments
• Proactive problem-solver who takes initiative, adapts quickly to changing priorities, and embraces continuous learning
• Flexible and willing to travel for design research and factory visits as business needs require