Freelance Fashion & Technical Designer (Women’s Short Dresses)

We’re building a premium women’s going-out brand - confident, feminine, and elevated. Think sculpted silhouettes, rich textures, and refined minimalism that celebrates the female form.

We’re seeking a freelance fashion designer / technical designer to help us develop our first capsule collection of short occasion dresses, taking ideas from concept through to production-ready tech packs.

Scope of Work
The designer will collaborate with the founder to bring the creative vision to life - focusing on both aesthetic innovation and technical execution.

1. Creative Design
- Develop 6–8 short dress designs for the debut capsule collection (mini and midi lengths, going-out / cocktail focus).
- Create sketches, moodboards, and silhouette explorations aligned with the brand direction (premium, modern, feminine).
- Propose fabric selections (satin, jersey, mesh, crepe, structured cotton blends, etc.) suitable for both comfort and form retention.
- Suggest colour palette, trims, and finishing details.

2. Technical Design
- Produce detailed tech packs for each style — including flat sketches, construction notes, fabric specs, and measurements.
- Support pattern development and ensure designs are production-ready.
- Advise on fit adjustments and grading for XS–XL sizing (UK/AU standard).
- Prepare sample review notes and iteration feedback where required.

3. Collaboration
- Work closely with the founder and manufacturer (UK or overseas) to ensure design intent translates through sampling and production.
- Be available for virtual check-ins and feedback sessions during design and sampling phases.

Deliverables
- 6–8 finalised dress designs (with moodboard + sketches).
- Tech packs (PDF format, production-ready).
- Fabric and trim recommendations with sourcing notes.

Optional: fit sample feedback and iteration documentation.

Ideal Experience
- 3+ years experience in womenswear design, ideally with premium / going-out / occasion brands.
- Proven ability to deliver high-quality technical drawings and tech packs.
- Strong understanding of fit, drape, and construction for bodycon / tailored silhouettes.
- Experience liaising with overseas manufacturers and reviewing samples.
- Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, CLO 3D, or equivalent CAD software.
- Keen eye for proportion, detailing, and trend adaptation within a luxury aesthetic.

Timeline & Budget
- Start: Immediately (October 2025)
- Duration: Approx. 4–6 weeks for design + technical development
- Budget: Open to proposals (please include your rate per design or project fee).

How to Apply

Please share:
- Portfolio or lookbook of previous womenswear work (especially dresses).
- Example tech packs or sketches (confidential elements can be redacted).
- Your rates and typical turnaround times.
- Any relevant brand experience or manufacturers you’ve worked with.