Lead Apparel Designer

The Lead Apparel Designer will drive the creative vision and oversee the entire design process of our apparel line, from initial concept to the final product. This is a full-time, in-house position, and applicants must be available to work on-site at our design office. The role requires a deep understanding of both golf and lifestyle fashion, blending technical functionality with modern aesthetics. The ideal candidate will be a forward-thinker with a passion for innovation, trend forecasting, and leadership in a collaborative team environment.

 

 

1. Creative Vision & Strategy:

 

·      Lead the creative direction for all apparel collections, ensuring alignment with the brand’s identity and target audience, which includes both golfers and lifestyle consumers.

·      Develop and present seasonal design concepts, mood boards, and thematic inspirations that reflect the brand ethos and resonate with current market trends.

·      Define and curate seasonal color palettes, fabric selections, and key design elements, ensuring innovation in both aesthetic and performance-driven features.

 

2. Design Development & Execution:

·      Create original designs for golf apparel and lifestyle garments, including initial hand sketches, digital renderings, and detailed technical drawings.

·      Select fabrics, trims, and finishes that meet the performance demands of golf while maintaining the comfort and style required for everyday wear.

·      Incorporate technical innovations such as moisture-wicking fabrics, UV protection, and temperature-regulating materials into designs to enhance performance.

·      Design unique features and embellishments that balance the needs of active golfers and casual wearers, ensuring versatility and style.

·      Oversee the development of tech packs and ensure that designs are executed with precision from concept to final sample.

 

3. Collaboration & Cross-Functional Leadership:

·      Collaborate closely with the Graphic Designer to develop print patterns, logos, and branding elements that complement apparel designs.

·      Work with the Technical Designer to ensure creative concepts are accurately translated into detailed tech packs and specifications.

·      Partner with the Product Development and Production teams to ensure design feasibility, material sourcing, and manufacturing timelines align with collection launch schedules.

·      Serve as the primary point of contact for suppliers, ensuring fabric quality, trims, and embellishments meet design standards and performance needs.

 

4. Trend Research & Market Analysis:

·      Lead trend forecasting efforts, researching and analyzing global fashion trends in both the golf and lifestyle sectors to keep ahead of market shifts.

·      Conduct competitor analysis and market research to identify opportunities for differentiation and innovation in upcoming collections.

·      Stay informed on emerging technologies in performance apparel and eco-friendly fabrics, incorporating sustainable practices into the design process where possible.

 

5. Design Review & Iteration:

·      Manage the entire design review process, overseeing sample reviews and fit sessions to ensure designs meet the brand’s high standards for both form and function.

·      Provide constructive feedback on prototypes, requesting necessary adjustments to fabric, fit, or features to achieve the perfect balance of performance and aesthetics.

·      Sign off on final product designs and collaborate with production to ensure all items meet quality and design expectations before full-scale manufacturing.

 

6. Brand Presentation & Marketing Alignment:

·      Ensure that the visual presentation of apparel, whether in lookbooks, online, or in-store, aligns with our branding and storytelling.

·      Work with marketing and sales teams to ensure that product messaging and visual campaigns capture the design ethos and brand story behind each collection.

 

·      Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Apparel Design, or a related field.

·      7+ years of experience in apparel design, with a focus on performance wear, athletic, or lifestyle brands.

·      Proven experience in leading creative design teams and managing the full product lifecycle from concept to market.

·      Strong portfolio showcasing innovative designs, with an emphasis on blending performance functionality with modern, lifestyle aesthetics.

·      Expertise in fabric selection, material innovation, and technical garment construction.

·      Excellent collaboration skills with the ability to work cross-functionally with various departments, including technical design, product development, and marketing.

·      Proficiency in design software such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and 3D design programs.

·      Strong knowledge of golf-specific performance needs and lifestyle fashion trends.

·      Exceptional attention to detail, trend awareness, and a passion for pushing creative boundaries.

 

·      Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.

·      Opportunities for career growth in a rapidly expanding brand.

·      Flexible working environment.

·      Employee discounts on our products.

·      Health, dental, and vision benefits (if applicable).

·      Paid time off.