Footwear Designer

Kai Collective; City Of London; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A London-based fashion brand is seeking a creative Shoe Designer to develop their first footwear line. The role entails leading the design process from concept to production, ensuring a balance of comfort and style. Applicants should have a strong portfolio in footwear design, experience in CAD design, and a passion for innovative fashion. This is a fixed-term 3-month contract with potential for extension.

Qualifications

• Strong portfolio showcasing original footwear design.
• Experience with 3D or CAD design.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of debut shoe styles.
• Research trends, materials, and construction techniques.
• Produce initial concept sketches, moodboards, and technical drawings.
• Develop tech packs with specifications for production.
• Source materials and manufacturing partners.
• Review samples and refine designs based on feedback.
• Align designs with the brand's aesthetic.

Skills

Portfolio showcasing original footwear design

Understanding of creative and technical shoe design

Skilled in Adobe Illustrator or footwear design software

Experience in developing footwear products from concept to sample stage

Passionate about bold, wearable design

Collaborative and resourceful

Understanding of the Kai Collective customer

Job description

About Kai Collective:
Kai Collective is a London-based fashion brand rooted in thoughtful design and community. We’re known for our bold prints, flattering silhouettes, and celebration of identity, culture, and confidence. As we continue to grow, we’re expanding into footwear - and we’re looking for a brilliantShoe Designerto lead the charge.

This is a rare opportunity to define thefootwear visionfor a cult-loved brand. We want to create shoes that feel just as empowering and distinctive as our ready-to-wear - shoes that people want to live in, dance in, and be seen in.

The Role:
You’ll be responsible for the creative and technical design of Kai’s first footwear styles. From concept to sampling, you’ll work closely with the team to develop original, design-led shoes that combine comfort, function, and flair.

This is a fixed-term contract of 3 months, with the possibility of extension depending on project needs and performance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and development of Kai Collective’s debut shoe styles.

• Research trends, materials, and construction techniques to create forward-thinking, fashion-conscious footwear.

• Produce initial concept sketches, moodboards, and technical drawings.

• Develop tech packs with clear specifications for prototyping and production.

• Sourcing materials and manufacturing partners.

• Review samples and refine designs based on fit, comfort, and feedback.

• Align designs with Kai’s overall brand aesthetic and seasonal direction.

Skills:

• Have a strong portfolio that showcases original footwear design (heels, flats, boots – we’re open to a range of silhouettes).

• Understand both the creative and technical side of shoe design.

• Are skilled in Adobe Illustrator and/or footwear design software.

• Have experience developing footwear products from concept to sample stage.

• Are passionate about bold, wearable design with storytelling at its core.

• Are collaborative, resourceful, and excited by building something from the ground up.

• Understand or are excited to learn about the Kai Collective customer and what makes her feel powerful.

Must Have:

• Experience with 3D or CAD design.

Nice to Have:

• Footwear development contacts (factories, material suppliers).

• Experience working with independent fashion brands.

To Apply:
Please send your CV, portfolio (highlighting footwear design), and a short note on why you’d love to design for Kai to [e-mail]. Applications without a portfolio won’t be considered.