Ralph Lauren Design Associate, RRL Denim & Roughwear

Position Overview

The Design Associate will play a key role in supporting the men's design team throughout the entire product lifecycle—from initial concept development through to production. This position will focus primarily on design and product development within the roughwear and denim categories.

The ideal candidate will bring a positive attitude and genuine passion for the RRL brand, demonstrating initiative and adaptability in a dynamic environment. Success in this role requires embracing change, quickly learning new concepts and procedures, and collaborating effectively across cross-functional teams.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Design Development & Conceptualization

• Collaborate with the design team to 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
• Partner with the design team to 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 color palette and patterns for each style
• Create and maintain comprehensive style stats in Vibe IQ for line adoptions, ensuring all documentation is updated throughout the seasonal process as changes occur
• Create 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

• Serve as a key liaison between Design, Product Development, Technical Design, Trim Department, and Merchandising to ensure seamless information flow and timely communication of changes throughout the development process
• Support preparation and execution of all Design Meetings, Board Reviews, Handoffs, Line Reviews, and Showroom Openings
• Attend all fittings, document detailed notes for follow-up actions, and assist with fit preparation

• Organization & Management

• Maintain and organize all electronic and physical design materials for easy access and reference
• Aid in maintaining the product design library to support ongoing inspiration and research
• Support ad hoc projects and collaborate with the team on special initiatives as needed

Experience, Skills & Knowledge

• Education & Experience

• Work experience in apparel design, preferably with a focus on denim and roughwear bottoms
• Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design or related field preferred

• 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

• Strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, XD)
• Proficient in Web PLM and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook)
• Proficient in flat sketching and color rendering with strong illustration capabilities
• Comprehensive understanding of garment construction and finishing techniques
• Working knowledge of pattern making and garment fit principles