as part of this role i have looked into finding information from a variety of sources to give a clear understanding of the position, and responsibilities within it.
Definition of a designer
'Designer - A person who is involved in the creative process turning customer needs into value outcomes.
Outcomes may range widely according to the specific role of the designer, but could include manufactured
products, coporate logos or packaging.'
Jackson, T., Shaw, D., (2001) Mastering Fashion buying and merchandising management. Palgrave Macmillan, P.185
Responsibilities
Successful fashion design could be providing the customer with what they want, in retail this could be aiming to create catwalk trends at lower prices. The fashion designer needs to monitor trends and interpret them in a distinctive way to the brand.
- Review best and worst selling designs from the current and previous seasons
- Research on new trends for the colours, fabric and shape.
- Design to meet the customer needs
- Plan and select fabrics
- Create samples
- Seek confirmation of the range from the buyers and directors
- development of the products/collection
- Liason with Manufactures
Designer
(As my role within the group is designer, for our given brand 'next' i thought i would go on to the company website and get a definition of what the company themselves want from a designer)
'Our customers have come to expect great design from us, so we’re always keen to talk to new designers with fresh ideas.
We have the very best facilities and resources in order to get the most from our designers - from access to global trend agencies and on-site CAD training to a dedicated graphics team and talented fabric sourcing specialists.
You’ll also benefit from greater ownership of your ranges and the opportunity to influence key design direction at every stage. As well as day-to-day involvement in the design process, you’ll of course take regular inspiration trips abroad to keep you fully up to date with the latest trends.
To join us you’ll have a good commercial background in design and an awareness of our customers and brand, but if you’re new to the industry then one of our trainee schemes may be more relevant to you. '
(http://careers.next.co.uk/headoffice/headoffice_areas.aspx?p=3&a=2)
'Designers at all levels within Next have a real opportunity to shape the future ranges and innovations which will strengthen our place at the forefront of high street fashion.
We’ll take it for granted you’ve a passionate interest in design, along with plenty of creative flair. However, to produce highly desirable ranges which wow our customers, a grasp of commercial considerations will be just as important, as will a real understanding of our customers’ needs, tastes and aspirations.It’s a demanding job in a fast moving environment. One in which you’ll work closely with our buyers, merchandisers and senior designers to research current and predicted trends. You'll create stories and come up with a range of products featuring the latest colours and fabrics - always with an eye on what our competitors are doing.
With your talent for design, supported with a relevant degree level qualification, this should prove no problem. The real challenge will be to remain calm, focused and professional in a role in which, at times, you’ll find yourself under pressure. If you already have some work experience in the fashion business, so much the better.'
(http://careers.next.co.uk/trainees/roles.aspx?r=5)
