Merchandising Designer

Summary

A Merchandising Designer for a new fitness apparel and handbag brand launch plays a pivotal role in defining the initial product line, blending high\-performance design with commercially sound market entry strategies. Core Responsibilities * **Initial Product Assortment Planning:** Develop the inaugural seasonal line plan for both fitness apparel and performance handbags, ensuring the assortment aligns with the new brand's identity, target audience, and launch timelines. * **Market Entry \& Trend Analysis:** Conduct extensive market research on emerging fitness trends, performance materials, competitor launch strategies, and the niche market for athletic handbags to ensure a competitive and innovative initial offering. * **Apparel Technical Design:** Create technical packs (tech packs) for a range of fitness apparel, specifying performance fabrics, functional design details, and fit requirements unique to athletic wear. * **Handbag Product Development:** Design and develop functional athletic and lifestyle handbags, focusing on materials selection (e.g., durable, water\-resistant fabrics), hardware specifications, pocket configurations, and manufacturing feasibility. * **Brand Identity \& Storytelling:** Ensure all merchandising decisions and product designs consistently reflect the core values and aesthetic of the new brand, collaborating with marketing teams to build a compelling launch narrative. * **Sourcing \& Vendor Management:** Work closely with sourcing teams to identify and onboard manufacturers capable of producing high\-quality technical apparel and specialized handbags, managing the initial sampling and production cycles. * **Financial Planning:** Assist in setting target price points, analyzing initial margin potential, and forecasting launch inventory needs to manage risk effectively during the brand's first season. Key Skills \& Requirements * **Startup/Launch Experience:** Prior experience in launching a new apparel brand or product category is a significant advantage. * **Versatile Design Skills:** Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and CAD software, with a strong portfolio demonstrating both apparel design (preferably athletic/performance wear) and handbag/accessory design. * **Material Science Knowledge:** Expertise in a variety of performance textiles, trim, and hardware applicable to both technical apparel and durable bags. * **Business \& Retail Acumen:** Strong analytical skills to interpret market data and translate creative vision into a commercially successful and scalable product line. * **Education:** A Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Product Merchandising, or a related field.