Rachel Jacques
Apparel Designer + Photographer · Colony Brands
Madison, WI
Work Experience
Apparel Designer
Colony Brands2017 – Present
LinkedIn • Responsible for the execution of design creations, driving execution of designs across multiple categories and brands, partnering with the cross-functional partners on creative direction and designing apparel that is appealing and brand appropriate for the target consumer • Provide trend direction for multiple brands by traveling and attending trade shows each season • Set overall direction in the conceptual development of product lines • Create detailed technical packages, including material specifications, trim, CAD packages, and color details • Apply market research, trend insight, and knowledge to interpret business briefs from the product team to select materials, and actively create and present new innovative design concepts to the team • Lead presentations with strong verbal and visual execution, while clearly communicating design vision • Ensure product meets budget and adheres to seasonal calendar while maintaining design excellence • Build and support a collaborative and innovative culture for direct reports and peers • Oversee the development of fabrics, wash finishes, special trims and style details
Freelance Designer
New York and Company2017 – 2017
• Created brand-right commercial designs that reflected the conceptual direction and business strategy • Developed seasonal product with focus on style, fit, and fabric
Freelance Designer
Macy's, Inc2017 – 2017
• Produced cohesive product presentations to merchant teams • Led the approval process for all style, material, trims, and colors in style plan • Partnered with Product Managers in set-up and presenting to divisions at buy meetings • Ensured designs met merchant line plans, assortment strategies, and creative direction • Responsible for approving lab dips, fabric samples, and strike-off's
Designer, Sail
Sable2016 – 2017
• Executed accurate Design Packs and Artwork for cross-functional partners • Established spec sheets and communicated fit and construction details to vendors • Managed design process from concept to final product • Researched seasonal trends and identified key color and silhouettes • Coordinated and assisted in preparation for bi-yearly fashion show
Denim Designer
One Jeanswear Group2016 – 2016
Managed all stages of product development: sketching, creating tech packs, spec sheets, commenting on proto samples, print development, and creating design boards • Developed new and innovative wash, fits, and fabrics which resulted in increased sales for the season • Reviewed washes and lab dips and clearly communicated modifications to manufacturing partners • Ensured product designs were consistent with market trends and brand strategy • Built strong cross-functional relationships with sales, production, technical design, and marketing teams to support product launch strategies
Apparel Designer
Betsey2010 – 2016
• Worked closely with Betsey Johnson to execute her iconic feminine and whimsical design vision • Supervised and led the team during New York Fashion Week • Managed development process with domestic and overseas vendors • Responsible for the product launch of evening and day-wear categories • Managed product development calendar to effectively meet seasonal product deliveries • Utilized draping and sewing skills, developed embroidery layouts, created tech packs, led fit sessions, and sourced fabrics for development
Associate Designer
Kohl's2013 – 2015
• Created monthly color palettes, mood boards, and concepts directly with Lauren Conrad • Partnered with Design Director to execute desired trends and big ideas • Collaborated with Lauren Conrad to Design Runway collection for New York Fashion Week • Identified an innovative idea to design a Disney inspired collection, which spread to a company-wide initiative and lucrative partnership with Disney • Expanded the denim and bottoms business by focusing on key fits and fabric and in return became the two best-selling categories in the brand • Responsible for presenting in product and strategy meetings • Created sketches, tech packs, and specs for assigned product categories
Education
Bachelor's in Fine Arts and Fashion
School of the Art Institute2001 – 2005
Bachelor's in Fine Arts and Fashion
