Free People Designer -Denim

Free People is seeking a Denim Designer!  At Free People our Denim Designer plays a key role in supporting the design process from initial concept through final production. This role will work closely with the Assistant Design Director and Senior Director to help bring our collections to life. It’s an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about Denim, pushing boundaries in design and is eager to contribute to the ongoing development of Free People’s denim business. 

• Design & Trend: Develop original designs in denim, researching current fashion trends and translating them into new designs for the Free People customer.
• Technical Design: Create detailed sketches and tech packs using Adobe Illustrator/Procreate for monthly design packages.
• Development: Collaborate with Design Directors on monthly collections, managing trim sourcing, BOM updates, and sample tracking.
• Fabric & Structure: Utilize in-depth knowledge of denim washes, treatments, details and construction to design innovative silhouettes, details and styles found Only At Free People.
• Communication: Coordinate with vendors and cross-functional teams (production, buying, tech design) to ensure accurate, timely product execution.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Partner with the Assistant Design Director to shape and present monthly trend concepts, seasonal narratives, and new design opportunities for the category.
• Take ownership of assigned design projects, driving creative development with initiative, strong aesthetic judgment, and disciplined follow-through.
• Generate original, brand-right concepts through sketching, research, and visual storytelling using Procreate, Adobe Creative Suite, and AI-based creative tools.
• Own all technical sketch development for monthly design packages, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and timely updates throughout each phase of development.
• Manage the execution of design packages for assigned styles in close partnership with the Design Coordinator and Product Development team, supporting a smooth and informed development process.
• Contribute to trim development, BOM refinement, and detail execution to help elevate product and preserve design intent through sampling and production.
• Clearly communicate fit, construction, and design changes to cross-functional partners, including managing weekly fit recaps and escalating key changes when needed.
• Play an active role in Design Flow meetings by identifying open issues, aligning on next steps, and helping move work forward with accountability.
• Bring forward meaningful research on trend, color, fabric, and innovation to support category development and strengthen the overall design vision.
• Use draping, sewn mocks, hand sketching, and digital tools to communicate ideas effectively and bring design concepts to life for key reviews and presentations.
• Contribute to a highly collaborative team environment by preparing proactively for meetings, supporting deadlines, and helping drive creative excellence across the category.
• Operate with agility and a strong creative point of view in a fast-paced environment, responding thoughtfully to shifting priorities and business opportunities.

• Bachelor's Degree in Apparel Design preferred.
• 5+ Years of experience in Denim, Woven or related category apparel design preferred.
• Creativity is a must! Strong sense and understanding of Fashion Trends and how they could translate to the Free People customer. Ability to identify new trends and how those can relate to Denim category.
• Excellent technical, hand sketching and CAD skills in Procreate, Photoshop, Illustrator.
• Fabric/Wash knowledge as it relates to denim.
• Ability to sew and pattern if needed.
• Knowledge of garment construction is key.
• Strong sense of organizational skills as well as passionate of fast fast-paced environment.
• Self-starter with the ability to function independently as well as in a team-based environment.
• Great attention to detail and understanding of the sense of urgency and deadline.
• Upbeat, positive attitude, great team player, and ability to be flexible.
• Proficient in Microsoft platforms (Excel, Powerpoint, Word, Outlook).
• Ability to work on-site in Philadelphia, PA.

#LI-JA1 #FreePeople #URBN

URBN offers comprehensive Perks & Benefits to employees. Availability and eligibility to specific benefits may be subject to your location and employment status. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, PTO, generous employee discounts, retirement savings and much more! For additional information visit www.urbn.com/work-with-us/benefits

URBN celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We are proud to provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity or expression), religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity, citizenship, service in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic as established by law. We believe strongly in fostering a safe, fair and respectful work environment. To ensure compliance with our non-discrimination and anti-harassment policies, we offer anti-harassment training to managers and employees.