Designer – Handbags + SLG

Description

Golden Touch is seeking a talented Handbag Designer to support the creative development of trend-right, commercially successful handbag and accessories collections. The ideal candidate is both imaginative and technically skilled, with a refined understanding of the handbag market and consumer preferences. This role requires a strong balance of creative vision, material expertise, and the ability to collaborate cross-functionally from concept through production.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support the design of seasonal handbag collections, ensuring alignment with brand direction and market trends.
• Create and present mood boards, trend direction, color palettes, and material stories to internal and external stakeholders.
• Develop detailed CADs, hand sketches, and tech packs using Adobe Illustrator to communicate with manufacturing partners.
• Collaborate with Product Development and Merchandising teams to ensure brand consistency and product execution.
• Attend and contribute to internal design reviews and cross-functional development meetings.
• Source and select raw materials, hardware, and trims, maintaining a well-organized material and trim library.
• Liaise with overseas partners, including factories and sourcing teams, to monitor the progress of sample development and ensure execution aligns with design intent.
• Maintain accurate technical specifications and design documentation using PLM or similar systems.
• Demonstrate a proactive, organized, and detail-oriented approach to managing multiple projects and seasonal timelines. 

Requirements

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in handbag or leather goods design.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accessories Design, Fashion Design, or related field preferred.
• Strong proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign; working knowledge of Excel and PLM expected.
• Solid understanding of handbag construction, materials, and manufacturing techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret consumer insights and trend direction into commercially viable product.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills; able to clearly articulate design concepts across teams.
• Able to collaborate professionally with global cross-functional partners, including development and sourcing.
• Self-motivated and capable of working under minimal supervision, while meeting deadlines and adapting to shifting priorities.
• Passion for handbags and the accessories industry, with a strong design perspective and market awareness.

Hybrid Work Schedule 

4 days a week in the office, 1 day work from home

New York Pay Rate $70,000.00 - $90,000.00

We strive to hire and nurture amazing talent. Actual salaries will vary depending on factors including but not limited to experience, specialized skills, and internal alignment.

Company Overview

Golden Touch is a family owned and operated wholesale apparel manufacturer with a mission to deliver trend focused products for nearly 50 years. We produce private label brands for large mass market retailers across the globe specializing in children’s, junior, missy and women’s apparel. 

Diversity Vision Statement

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment that welcomes and values the differences among all of our associates, customers, suppliers, and the communities in which we live and conduct business. We are an equal employment opportunity for minorities, females, protected veterans, and the disabled.

We are committed to providing equal opportunities in employment and treating our associates and applicants without discrimination based on their race, color, gender, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected factor.