Apparel designer and merchandiser

Position: Apparel Designer & Merchandiser
Department: Design & Product Development

Job Summary:

We are seeking a creative, detail-oriented, and dynamic Apparel Designer and Merchandiser to join our team. This dual-role position is responsible for both designing and developing men's bottom wear collections (such as trousers, chinos, jeans, shorts, and joggers) and overseeing the manufacturing process to ensure product development aligns with market trends and consumer demands. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of fashion trends, garment construction, fabric selection, and manufacturing processes, combined with solid skills in product merchandising, pricing, and inventory management.

Key Responsibilities:

Apparel Design:
• Conceptualize and Design Collections: Create innovative and market-relevant designs for men's bottom wear, including trousers, shorts, jeans, chinos, cargos, etc., for each season or collection. Should also plan the accessories required in the product.
• Trend Research: Stay updated on current fashion trends, consumer preferences, and competitor products to inform design decisions.
• Sketching & Prototyping: Develop design sketches, technical packs, and prototypes for each design, detailing fabric, color, stitching, and finishing details.
• Fabric & Material Selection: Choose appropriate fabrics, trims, and embellishments based on seasonal trends, functionality, and cost-efficiency.
• Collaboration with Technical Team: Work closely with pattern makers, sample makers, and production teams to ensure the designs are feasible for manufacturing.

Merchandising:
• Product Planning: Plan the product manufacturing with the production team after approval from above. Coordinate with sample making.
• Pricing & Costing: Advise pricing strategies based on material cost, production costs, and market competitiveness, ensuring profitability while remaining competitive.
• Production Coordination: Collaborate with the production team to ensure designs are translated accurately and efficiently into finished products. Monitor timelines, quality, and consistency in manufacturing.
• Inventory Management: Assist in managing stock levels and forecast product demand to prevent overstocking or stockouts.
• Market Analysis: Analyze market trends, consumer behavior, and competitor products to make recommendations for future collections and product lines.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:
• Quality Control: Monitor product quality through regular reviews and sampling processes to ensure design standards are met during production.

Qualifications and Skills:
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Apparel Merchandising, Textile Science, or related field.
• Experience in fashion forecasting and trend analysis.
• Familiarity with garment production processes, including pattern making, fabric sourcing, and garment construction.
• Technical Skills: Some knowledge of technical design processes (CAD, tech packs).
• Strong Communication Skills: Ability to present ideas clearly and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Attention to Detail: Excellent eye for color, fabric quality, and overall garment aesthetic.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to anticipate design challenges and find creative solutions that align with production and consumer needs.
• Merchandising Knowledge: Strong understanding of market trends, manufacturing process, and inventory management.

Preferred Skills:
• Knowledge of sustainable design practices and eco-friendly materials.
• Strong understanding of fashion retail and e-commerce dynamics.

Work Environment:
• This position will be based in our office and design studio with some occasional visits to production facilities and trade shows.
• Some travel may be required for fabric sourcing, factory visits, or attending fashion events.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: ₹14,000.+2 - ₹41,426.88 per month

Supplemental Pay:
• Yearly bonus

Experience:
• Total work: 2 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person