Apparel and Headwear Designer-81Eighty

81Eighty is seeking a highly creative and detail-oriented Apparel & Headwear Designer to lead and develop innovative product assortments across multiple categories, including apparel, accessories, and headwear. This role works directly with the Design Manager and Senior Creative Artists to bring apparel and headwear programs to life from trend research through client approval and final production.

The ideal candidate brings extensive industry experience and design knowledge to the role, along with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment. They have exceptional presentation skills and can speak to their designs to influence key stakeholders. They are highly organized and efficient, capable of managing multiple seasons and projects simultaneously while maintaining creativity and attention to detail. This individual is a strong problem-solver who can balance design vision with business objectives, adapt to feedback, and remain coachable and collaborative. Above all, they maintain high standards throughout the design process and bring a passion for innovation, a positive attitude, and a team-oriented mindset.

•  Creative Design & Assortment Development

• Creatively design multiple product assortments across apparel, accessories, and headwear categories.

• Partner closely with Design Manager and Senior Creative Artists to execute seasonal and program-based design initiatives.
• Develop and maintain design organizational standards to ensure efficiency and consistency.
  -      Design Program Execution

• Lead strategic design planning aligned with brand and client objectives.
• Apply industry and garment construction expertise to develop commercially viable products.
• Bring a strong understanding of apparel construction, materials, and manufacturing processes to all projects.

-      Client & Account Collaboration

• Lead both external-facing client presentations and internal design presentations with the Accounts team.
• Support Account Managers (AMs) and Brand Managers (BMs) in client reviews.
• Execute multiple rounds of revisions until final client approval of sketches and concepts.
• Present SMS (Salesman Samples) to clients and communicate design intent clearly and confidently.

-      Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Conduct Design Kick-Off (KO) meetings with Technical Design and Product Development teams.
• Handoff detailed garment intentions, construction notes, and reference imagery.
• Advise Product Development on fabric and trim selections, codes, and new setup requirements.

Collaborate closely with Creative Art and Technical Design teams to move designs from concept to delivery.
-      Development & Production Oversight

• Set up styles in PLM systems.
• Review all prototype fittings and provide Designer sign-off to Technical Design and Product Development.

• Review fabrics and trims with Product Development and provide final design approval.
• Work collaboratively through revisions until SMS standards are achieved.
• Make sketch adjustments and updates as needed throughout development.

Qualification Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Apparel Design, Apparel Manufacturing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in apparel design; technical design experience is a plus.
• Strong development experience with a thorough understanding of apparel production processes and fabric/trim development.
• In-depth knowledge of fabrics, materials, garment construction, fit, and finishing techniques.
• Proven experience managing product from concept through production.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and PLM systems (WFX experience preferred).
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage a high volume of work.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment.
• Adaptable, solution-oriented mindset with the ability to evolve alongside changing customer needs.
• Positive attitude with a strong work ethic and “can-do” approach.