Freelance Jersey Designer

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 formal wear, while taking reference from both, Paul Smith has always been proud to stand apart.

We are seeking a Freelance Jersey Designer to join our Design team in London. In this role, you will be responsible for designing socks, lounge and will assist on all men's jersey for the Paul Smith Ltd collections. You will work closely with, and report directly to, the Head of Design - Knitwear & Soft Accessories, contributing creatively to the development of each collection.

We are looking for someone to start as soon as possible, ideally working full time, however the hours are negotiable depending on experience.

• To be responsible for the design and development of socks, lounge and assisting on all men's jersey, from initial concept through to pre-production.
• To sketch the range for the relevant categories utilising technical knowledge and representing the Paul Smith brand and heritage.
• Initial research into themes, materials, and techniques in close collaboration with the Head of Design - Knitwear & Soft Accessories.
• Clear and accurate design specification and communication to suppliers and manufacturers, following up with daily communication as required.
• Responsible for maintaining the critical path and ensuring all specs are issued on time and all samples are available for design presentations.
• To attend prototype and pre-production fittings at set intervals throughout the season.
• To demonstrate a consideration for price point and quality alongside more aspirational designs.
• To set up and maintain accurate technical information and material archive information.
• Work closely with the Copyright team to ensure all artworks meet the copyright requirements and are archived on completion of each season, ensuring that this is organised and easily accessible.

• Proven experience designing men’s jersey products (socks and/or lounge experience is highly desirable).
• Strong understanding of jersey fabrics, construction, and fit.
• Commercial, trend aware, and detail-focused.
• Excellent planning, prioritising and organisational skills to ensure key deadlines are met.
• Advanced knowledge of Illustrator, Photoshop, and Microsoft packages.

• The ability to think creatively, with a strong understanding of materials and colour.
• The ability to produce accurate and detailed drawings by hand and using design programs.
• A high level of attention to detail.
• Highly self-motivated and proactive, with excellent communication skills.
• Strong ability to deal with people at all levels and build effective internal and external working relationships.
• A broad interest across various cultural themes, with an interest in fashion, music, literature and the arts.

Please note this role requires that you submit an online link within the application form, to a colour portfolio containing work examples, this should be available for 4 weeks after the advert closing date.

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.