Designer - Handbags & Leather Goods

Aimé Leon Dore is looking for a Handbag & Leather Goods Designer to join our team in New York, New York, reporting directly to the Design Director of Footwear, Bags & Leather Goods.

About the role

This position will work on the overall handbag design process, supporting the team from concept research through production handoff.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for Handbag and SLG design and development; from concept presentation at the beginning of the season through bulk production handoff.
• Work closely with Design Leadership to develop styles that enhance brand identity, offering new products to our current customers, and expanding to new markets.
• Create and maintain all tech packs including sketches, BOMs, and technical specs.
• Responsible for calendar management through this process, highlighting close follow-up with vendors.
• Maintain strong relationships with vendors to secure open communication and adherence to deadlines both locally and overseas.
• Focus heavily on designing each style with authenticity and superior quality.
• Partner with Production on vendor allocation, pre-costing, and additional costing options for bulk when needed.
• Develop a continuous flow of new concepts and materials in the leather goods space, sharing with the wider design team to utilize the newest innovations.
• Expand our non-leather bag options to offer a robust hierarchy of price points.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion or Industrial Design and/or equivalent work experience.
• 5+ years of handbag and small leather goods design experience.
• Technical knowledge of leather and handbag construction from concept through bulk production.
• Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and Microsoft Suite; 3D and/or AI programs are a plus.
• Experience with various skins and fabric appropriate for handbags and SLGs.
• Ability to thrive in a high-volume, rapidly changing environment, with the ability to multitask and prioritize effectively.
• Must be organized and illustrate a keen attention to detail.
• Commitment to brand identity and a focus on business growth.

Pay

$85,000 - $90,000