In - Season Designer Miladys

The In-Season Designer will work closely with the Buying and Merchandise teams to identify product opportunities, develop relevant design and CAD solutions and support the delivery of confident, wearable and commercially successful ranges. To collaborate with the merch teams on current trade, customer insights and relevant fashion trends, translating these into commercially appropriate product designs that resonate with the Miladys customer.

Product Design and Development Work closely with the Buyer to create accurate and detailed CADs and technical packs for product development and supplier briefing. Ensure that garment details, colourways, trims, fabric direction and technical information are accurately reflected in CADs and technical packs. Adapt relevant trends to suit the Miladys customer, with consideration for fit, comfort, wearability, fabrication and commercial appeal.

Support the development of digital merchandise collections and seasonal product presentations. Work with the Buyer and relevant design or graphics teams to brief and develop prints, patterns, colourways and other product design elements. Research and maintain relevant local and international product, fashion, colour, print and fabric references.

Identify appropriate product extensions, updates and new design opportunities based on current trade and customer needs. Trade, Strategy and Range Reviews Prepare computer-aided designs, product references and review boards to support seasonal strategies, range reviews and post-mortems. Compile and maintain up-to-date product, category and seasonal design references.

Collaborate with the Buying and Merchandise teams to develop timely in-season responses based on current trade. Analyse current trade performance, customer feedback, competitor activity and relevant fashion trends to identify product opportunities and gaps. Cross-functional Collaboration Partner with Buying, Merchandise, Quality and Sourcing teams throughout the product-development process.

Respond to product changes and trade opportunities within the required retail timelines. Participate in strategy sessions, range reviews and post-mortems, contributing relevant design and customer insights. Ensure designs remain aligned with the Miladys product direction, customer proposition and commercial objectives.

Sample and Reference Management Keep the sample and design-reference library organised and up to date. Use relevant samples and references to support range development, seasonal reviews and supplier briefs. Diploma or degree in Fashion Design, Clothing Management or a related qualification. 3+ years’ relevant experience in fashion, product or CAD design, preferably within a retail environment.

Strong CAD and technical drawing ability. Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, or the relevant Adobe Creative Suite applications. Sound knowledge of fabrics, garment construction, fit and technical packs. Understanding of the retail merchandise and product-development process. Ability to interpret trade performance, customer insights and fashion trends into commercially relevant product ideas.

Strong attention to detail and commitment to design accuracy. Good communication and collaboration skills. Ability to manage priorities and work at pace within a deadline-driven retail environment. Mr Price Group Limited is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to Employment Equity.