Design Director – Luxury Womenswear Brand

Mode Executive is proud to be supporting an internationally recognised luxury womenswear brand in the search for an exceptional Design Director. Renowned for its refined aesthetic, outstanding craftsmanship and modern approach to luxury, the brand is entering an exciting new phase of global growth and is seeking a creative leader to help shape the future of its ready-to-wear collections. Working in close partnership with the Founder & Creative Director, this is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in the continued evolution of a highly respected luxury fashion house.

Based in London, this is a full-time position working closely with the Founder & Creative Director and the CEO. The Design Director will lead the Design Studio while collaborating across Product Development, Atelier, Production, Merchandising and Commercial teams to deliver exceptional collections from concept through to production.

The Role

• Partner with the Founder & Creative Director to translate seasonal creative direction into cohesive luxury ready-to-wear collections.
• Lead the creative development of collections across multiple product categories, ensuring a balance of innovation, craftsmanship and commercial appeal.
• Drive design excellence through silhouette, fabrication, colour, print, detailing and garment construction.
• Ensure each collection reflects the brand's distinctive identity while evolving to meet the expectations of an international luxury customer.
• Contribute to the long-term creative vision, product strategy and growth of the brand.
• Oversee the complete design process from research and concept development through fittings, sampling and final approval.
• Develop seasonal collection architecture and support range planning across categories.
• Work closely with Product Development and Production teams to ensure collections are delivered on schedule and to exceptional quality standards.
• Collaborate on fabric sourcing, trim development and material innovation.
• Support the delivery of special projects including capsule collections, collaborations, bespoke commissions and VIP dressing opportunities.
• Partner with Merchandising and Commercial teams to create commercially successful collections while protecting the integrity of the brand.
• Contribute to category planning, product mix and pricing strategy.
• Lead, mentor and develop the Design Studio, fostering a collaborative, high-performing and creative environment.
• Refine studio processes and seasonal workflows to support efficiency and excellence.
• Build strong relationships across Design, Product Development, Atelier, Production, Marketing and Commercial functions.

Requirements

• Significant experience leading luxury ready-to-wear design within an established fashion brand.
• An exceptional portfolio demonstrating a complete luxury wardrobe across multiple product categories.
• Proven experience managing seasonal collections from initial concept through to production.
• Strong expertise in garment construction, luxury fabrication and product development.
• A highly creative mindset combined with strong commercial awareness.
• Experience working closely with founders, creative directors or senior leadership within a luxury fashion environment.
• Proven ability to lead, mentor and inspire high-performing design teams.
• Strong understanding of collection architecture, range planning and category development.
• Excellent organisational, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience collaborating across cross-functional teams including Product Development, Atelier, Production, Merchandising and Commercial.
• The ability to thrive within a fast-paced, entrepreneurial and creatively driven luxury business.
• A passion for craftsmanship, innovation and creating exceptional luxury products for a global customer.

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