Job Title:Fabric Developer
Department:Design and Development
Reports To:Creative Director/Managing Director/Head of Design
Location:London, 27 Downham Road N15AA
The Fabric Developer plays a key role in bringing the creative vision of the brand to life by supporting the design team in sourcing and developing innovative and luxurious fabrics and overseeing embroidery developments. This role bridges creativity and technical expertise, working closely with mills and suppliers to deliver exclusive, high-quality fabrics that embody the brand’s aesthetic and craftsmanship values.
Key Responsibilities
* Fabric Development & Sourcing
o Support the design team by sourcing and developing exclusive fabrics in line with seasonal creative direction and target pricing.
o Collaborate with premium mills and artisanal suppliers to explore innovative weaves, finishes, and techniques.
o Coordinate fabric requests, headers, swatches, and sample yardage for design use and product development/sampling
o Manage lab dips, strike-offs, and fabric approvals, ensuring precision in color and finish.
* Creative Collaboration
o Act as a liaison between design, product development, and suppliers to ensure fabric developments align with the collection’s creative intent.
o Provide inspiration and trend research on luxury textiles, artisanal techniques, and new innovations.
o Participate in design reviews, presenting fabric options and status updates.
* Quality & Aesthetic Standards
o Ensure timely delivery of production meterage.
o Ensure fabrics meet the highest standards of luxury in hand feel, drape, and appearance.
o Liaise with production and mill to communicate any faults.
o Support fabric testing and ensure compliance with luxury brand quality standards.
* Project & Timeline Management
o Maintain development trackers and coordinate critical path timelines for all fabrics.
o Track and communicate the status of all developments, from first request through to final approval.
o Ensure on-time delivery of fabric submissions for design deadlines and collection milestones.
o Review and approve invoices and negotiate terms with mills.
* Sustainability & Innovation
o Support initiatives in sustainable luxury textiles and innovative fabric solutions.
o Monitor and maintain supplier certifications and ensure alignment with the brand’s sustainability goals.
o Stay informed on new technologies, responsible sourcing, and industry innovations.
Key Skills & Attributes
* Strong knowledge of luxury textiles, fabric construction, and finishing techniques.
* Eye for detail with an appreciation for craftsmanship and aesthetics.
* Excellent communication skills to liaise confidently with designers, artisans, and global suppliers.
* Highly organized and able to manage multiple projects with precision and urgency.
* Strong trend awareness and understanding of the luxury fashion landscape.
* Technical knowledge of fabric testing and sustainability standards desirable.
* Proficiency in PLM systems, Excel, and fabric databases.
Qualifications & Experience
* 2+ years’ experience in fabric development, ideally within a luxury fashion house or premium textile supplier.
* Proven experience working with international mills and suppliers.
Performance Indicators
* Ability to deliver exclusive and innovative fabrics aligned with brand DNA.
* Timeliness and accuracy in fabric development coordination.
* Seamless communication with our atelier.
* Quality and precision in lab dip, strike-off, and fabric approvals.
* Effective collaboration with design, development, and supplier partners.
* Contribution to sustainability and innovation goals within the luxury sector.
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