Designer, Handbags - NYC

General Summary

The Designer, Handbags is responsible for creating compelling, innovative, and brand-right handbag designs for seasonal collections. This position supports the Steve Madden International Handbag business.

The responsibilities described below are considered essential functions of the role.  This position is based in our NYC office and requires working on-site five days per week.

Key Responsibilities

• Research fashion trends, materials, colors, and hardware to inspire and inform designs
• Design and develop seasonal handbag collections aligned with brand identity and market trends
• Present concepts and collections to VP of Design that align with seasonal direction

Specific Job Skills:

Essential duties include

• Create detailed design sketches, CAD's, and tech packs for development
• Collaborate with product development and technical design teams to ensure accurate execution of design intent
• Attend sample reviews to ensure consistency and quality
• Daily communication with overseas suppliers to ensure all details are implemented during the development process
• Juggle multiple collections and projects simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines
• Finalize technical specs in prep for production hand off after sales orders are placed
• Stay up to date with competitor products, pricing, and market trends

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Accessories Design or equivalent experience
• Minimum of 3–5+ years of handbag or accessories design experience
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop
• Excellent interpersonal, problem-solving, organizational, collaborative and time management skills
• Strong sketching and rendering skills, both by hand and digitally
• Solid knowledge of handbag materials, construction, and hardware
• Understanding of technical specs, construction, and materials
• Strong organizational skills and ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment
• Proactive, positive attitude, and a fast learner who thrives in a collaborative team

The expected base salary for this position ranges from $85k-$90k. Ranges are based on various factors such as relevant skillset, training, years of experience related to the current job description, education, and our organizational structure. In addition to the base salary, Steve Madden offers a competitive benefits package that includes health and dental insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, 401K, paid holidays, a generous paid time-off policy, and career opportunities within a dynamic team.