Design Assistant

Full-time position. Office based in Nottingham

Closing Date: Monday 7 October 2024

If you have recently qualified in fashion and are passionate about design, textiles and fit - this is a great opportunity to join the UW team and gain some practical experience of working for and contributing to its ongoing success.

You will assist with the production of clothing and accessories by identifying trends, selecting styles, fabrics, colours, prints and trims for collections.

The role:

• Assist in the creation or visualisation of an idea and produce a design by hand or using computer-aided design (CAD).
• As and when necessary, assist in the creation of mood boards to assist with production or general sales.
• Keep up to date with emerging fashion trends as well as general trends relating to fabrics, colours and shapes which will complement the UW collection.
• Work with others in the team, particularly production, to develop products to meet a brief.
• When required, liaise closely with sales, production, ecommerce and retail to ensure that items suit UW customers, market and price points.
• Understand design from a technical perspective i.e. producing patterns and technical specifications for designs.
• As and when required, visit trade shows and manufacturers to assist with the sourcing, selection and buying of fabrics, trims, fastenings and general trims.
• Ensure that existing designs are adapted for UW general production.
• When required assist with development of patterns that are cut and sewn into sample garments and work with the team with fitting, detailing and any adaptations.
• As required, work with models to try out designs and assess their general suitability for the UW collections.
• As required, assist in creating design presentations for sales / marketing purposes.

The requirements:

• Good working knowledge of using Illustrator and photoshop.
• Design and visualisation skills through computer-aided design (CAD) and by hand would be an advantage'
• Technical skills, including fitting and possibly pattern cutting
• Garment technology skills and knowledge
• Good team working skills with the ability to be organized and have good time management.
• A good eye for colour and a good feel for fabrics and materials.

The package:

• Competitive.
• Hours: Mon – Thurs 9:00 – 5:30, Fri 9:00 to 3:00
• Half hour paid lunch each day
• Holidays: 28 days per annum increasing with service
• Pension
• Clothing Discount and Clothing Allowance.

Please apply to veda@universalworks.co.uk, sending a covering letter.