Creative Textile Designer

University of the Arts London; Taunton; Hybrid; GBP 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

University of the Arts London in Taunton is seeking a Creative Designer to develop 50–80 original designs for our twice-yearly collections, researching new processes and translating concepts into commercially viable fabrics. This role involves direct international client contact and collaboration with the design team.

You will research couture and fashion trends, build seasonal ranges, and work with international suppliers on sampling and production feasibility.

Qualifications

• Degree in Fashion, Textiles, Art or a related discipline.
• Outstanding drawing ability, originality, trend awareness and strong commercial judgement.

Responsibilities

• Research couture, fashion, bridal and interior trends; create original drawings, colourways and textured fabric concepts.
• Build seasonal ranges for different customers and price points, developing new techniques and more sustainable products.
• Collaborate with international suppliers on sampling, production feasibility, technical issues and bespoke developments.
• Organise projects and deadlines; occasionally support sample examination, finishing and fabric preparation.

Skills

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Illustrator

Mood boards

Digital design

Social media

Microsoft 365

Education

Degree in Fashion/Textiles/Art or related

Tools

Microsoft 365

Job description

Working with the Creative Director and the designer team, develop approximately 50–80 original designs for our twice-yearly collections, research new processes and help translate innovative concepts into commercially viable fabrics. This is primarily a creative design role with direct international client contact.

CREATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Research couture, fashion, bridal and interior trends; create original drawings, colourways and textured fabric concepts.
• Build seasonal ranges for different customers and price points, developing new techniques and more sustainable products.
• Collaborate with international suppliers on sampling, production feasibility, technical issues and bespoke developments.
• Organise projects and deadlines; occasionally support sample examination, finishing and fabric preparation.

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL & COMMUNICATION — ESSENTIAL

• Travel internationally throughout the year to customers, suppliers and trade shows, including independently when required.
• Confidently present collections to designers and buyers, build relationships and contribute to assigned sales markets.
• Communicate clearly and diplomatically with clients on colour, design alterations, sampling and production.

ADVANCED IT & SOCIAL MEDIA — ESSENTIAL

• Advanced digital design skills, particularly Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator; strong Microsoft 365 skills (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Teams).
• Create professional mood boards, technical artwork, collection presentations and digital client proposals.
• Confident use of Instagram, LinkedIn and relevant social platforms; contribute high-quality photography, short-form video and creative content.
• Use email, video conferencing and collaborative digital tools professionally; adapt quickly to new technologies.

Skills and Experience Required

• Degree in Fashion, Textiles, Art or a related discipline; relevant design experience preferred.
• Outstanding drawing ability, originality, trend awareness and strong commercial judgement.
• Confident, articulate, proactive and self-sufficient; excellent teamwork, organisation and initiativ