Footwear Designer

Kai Collective; Greater London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A London-based fashion brand is seeking an experienced Shoe Designer to define their footwear vision. This role involves leading the design and development of original shoe styles, combining comfort, function, and flair. The ideal candidate should have a strong portfolio in footwear design, skills in Adobe Illustrator, and experience in product development. This is a fixed-term contract for 3 months, with possibilities for extension. Interested applicants should apply with their CV and portfolio to the provided email address, ensuring their design experience is highlighted.

Qualifications

• Strong portfolio showcasing original footwear design.
• Experience developing footwear products from concept to sampling.
• Willingness to learn about customer needs and preferences.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of the debut shoe styles.
• Research materials and techniques to create innovative footwear.
• Produce sketches, moodboards, and technical drawings.
• Develop tech packs with specifications for production.
• Source materials and manufacturing partners.

Skills

Footwear design portfolio

Creative and technical design knowledge

Adobe Illustrator skills

Experience in footwear product development

Collaborative and resourceful mindset

Understanding of the Kai Collective customer

Tools

3D or CAD design software

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 brilliant Shoe Designer to lead the charge.

This is a rare opportunity to define the footwear vision for 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.