Paul Smith is one of Britain’s leading independent design companies. We champion positivity, curiosity and creativity. These qualities underpin every Paul Smith design, whether it’s a shirt, a shop or a special collaboration. Reaffirming the values that Paul set down in 1970, ‘classic with a twist’ remains the guiding principle of the company. Happily positioned between high fashion and formalwear, while taking reference from both, Paul Smith has always been proud to stand apart.
We have a rare opportunity for a Menswear Design Assistant to join our Design team in London. This role will support the team with research, design and development of the Paul Smith Menswear collections, and carry out general design studio and administration duties to ensure the smooth running of the department.
Please note, this role requires that you submit an online link to a portfolio or Design Project containing work examples, as part of your application. This should be available for 4 weeks after the advert closing date.
The Role
Assist the design studio with a variety of tasks, including design boards, mood boards, colour boards, colour cards, research, organising the studio space and sourcing art supplies.
Assist with the sewing up of trials and new development samples, creating maquettes and draping on the stand.
Using Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, work on colourway options, print placements and artworks for fabric developments and embellishments.
Draw highly detailed design sketches and technical drawings, by hand and using Illustrator and Photoshop.
Assist with planning and organisation for catwalks, lookbooks and editorials.
Attend fittings and sample reviews.
Collaborate with the Head of Design on special projects and exclusive capsules when required.
Liaise with the development and production departments in London and Nottingham.
Follow range plans and critical paths and ensure that all targets and deadlines are strictly adhered to.
Carry out general administrative duties, including organising meetings, collecting post and doing photocopying, scanning and printing.
About you
A qualification in Design or equivalent relevant experience, ideally working with fabrics.
High level of proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and MS Office.
Knowledge of fashion design processes, fabric bases and colour.
Familiarity with creating design boards.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Strong administration skills.
Highly organised, reliable, and able to work to set deadlines.
Who you are
Friendly, approachable and willing to help others.
Creative flair, with the ability to assess colour.
A team player, who can also work on own initiative.
Up to date knowledge of fashion trends and design techniques.
Passionate about the Paul Smith brand and product.
Able to travel within the UK and internationally, when required.
What’s in it for you
A generous seasonal clothing allowance.
A discretionary discount on Paul Smith products.
Wellbeing support through the Retail trust for you and your family.
An annual leave entitlement of 25 days, plus Bank Holidays.
Cycle to work and travel loan schemes.
SmartTech.
Day for change.
If you like the sound of what you’ve read so far, find out more about our company culture and the full list of benefits we can offer you.
At Paul Smith, we celebrate and encourage applications from all walks of life into our growing workforce. We are committed to empowering people from any background, belief system, or ethnicity, offering an inclusive environment where talent is recognised and valued.