Associate Designer - Apparel Graphics & Craft

Role Summary

Free People is seeking an Associate Designer for Graphics and Craft to create and execute both graphic and craft-based artwork for the We the Free and Structured categories within the Free People brand. This role plays a key part in creating apparel graphics, embellishments, and pattern designs that capture the unique aesthetic of the We the Free and Free People customer. The Associate Designer will collaborate closely with the Senior Designer and Design Director to craft the graphic and embellishment vision for seasonal presentations.

Role Responsibilities

• Attend weekly handoff meetings with the design team to receive project briefs for artwork and tech pack development.
• Create original artwork, layouts, and colorways using a blend of traditional techniques (drawing, painting, hand mocking etc.) and digital tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Procreate, and AI, ensuring designs are on-brand and trend-appropriate.
• Develop graphic and embellishment layouts, provide colorway options, and collaborate with the color team to align with specific palettes. Work closely with product development and technical designers to align on costing and file setup, ensuring smooth project execution.
• Generate CADs to communicate print placements on garments and create clear, concise technical packages for artwork to be sent to vendors and factories, ensuring proper execution by reviewing strike-offs.
• Partner with the Senior Designer and Design Director to execute the seasonal textile vision for graphics and craft, actively participating in the seasonal trend process and offering structured insights to ensure the design vision is brought to life.
• Stay informed on the latest fashion trends related to graphics, craft, prints, and color, incorporating them into designs while keeping the brand fresh and aligned with current trends.
• Collaborate with the design and buying teams to understand key graphic and embellishment needs, addressing them in your designs and seasonal presentations.
• Manage email correspondence throughout the day, maintaining clear communication with internal teams, vendors, and cross-functional partners.
• Keep track of development progress and organize bought samples. Maintain an organized and tidy workspace.
• Organize and maintain file folders with clear naming conventions to ensure easy access for teammates.
• This position requires strong deadline management and the ability to produce clear, concise tech packs.

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Role Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion, Graphic Design, textiles, fibers, or similar discipline preferred.
• 3-5 years related industry experience preferred.
• Ability to work on site at our Home Office in Philadelphia, PA 4-5 days per week.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, Procreate, Fresco, NedGraphics, and Office 365.
• Enthusiasm and experience with AI platforms for creative exploration a plus!
• Proven expertise in apparel graphic, embellishment, and textile design, with strong hand-drawing/painting skills and digital rendering abilities.
• A creative mindset with a passion for surface design and trend forecasting.
• Excellent communication skills, with a flexible and positive attitude.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

The Perks

URBN offers comprehensive Perks & Benefits to employees. Availability and eligibility to specific benefits may be subject to your location and employment status. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, PTO, generous employee discounts, retirement savings and much more! For additional information visit www.urbn.com/work-with-us/benefits

EEO Statement

URBN celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We are proud to provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity or expression), religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity, citizenship, service in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic as established by law. We believe strongly in fostering a safe, fair and respectful work environment. To ensure compliance with our non-discrimination and anti-harassment policies, we offer anti-harassment training to managers and employees.