Design Associate, RRL Denim & Roughwear

Pay Range: The pay range for this job is $62000 - $95935 annually; actual pay is dependent on experience and geographic location. Benefits: Base pay is only one part of our employee value proposition, which includes a robust benefits package, above-market time off, hybrid working arrangements, incentive compensation, where applicable, and varied learning opportunities. Ralph Lauren Corporation (NYSE:RL) is a global leader in the design, marketing and distribution of premium lifestyle products in five categories: apparel, accessories, home, fragrances, and hospitality. For more than 50 years, Ralph Lauren's reputation and distinctive image have been consistently developed across an expanding number of products, brands and international markets. The Company's brand names, which include Ralph Lauren, Ralph Lauren Collection, Ralph Lauren Purple Label, Polo Ralph Lauren, Double RL, Lauren Ralph Lauren, Polo Ralph Lauren Children, Chaps, among others, constitute one of the world's most widely recognized families of consumer brands.

At Ralph Lauren, we unite and inspire the communities within our company as well as those in which we serve by amplifying voices and perspectives to create a culture of belonging, ensuring inclusion, and fairness for all. We foster a culture of inclusion through: Talent, Education & Communication, Employee Groups and Celebration.
The Design Associate will play a key role in supporting the men's design team throughout the entire product lifecycle—from initial concept development through to production. This position will focus primarily on design and product development within the roughwear and denim categories.

The ideal candidate will bring a positive attitude and genuine passion for the RRL brand, demonstrating initiative and adaptability in a dynamic environment. Success in this role requires embracing change, quickly learning new concepts and procedures, and collaborating effectively across cross-functional teams.
Design Development & Conceptualization• Collaborate with the design team to develop innovative product concepts by curating vintage prototypes, tear sheets, sketches, fabric swatches, and trim inspiration• Research and identify emerging market trends, runway shows, and new techniques in fabric, silhouettes, embroidery, color, pattern, trim, wash, and finishing to inform design direction• Partner with the design team to explore new silhouettes and develop distinctive details that align with seasonal concepts, customer aesthetic, and RRL heritage• Create compelling inspirational design boards and sketches that effectively communicate design concepts aligned with seasonal themes
Technical Design & Documentation• Produce all technical sketches in Adobe Illustrator, including detailed multi-view layouts that capture the nuances and intricacies of each style• Execute accurate color rendering of all sketches to properly represent the color palette and patterns for each style• Create and maintain comprehensive style stats in Vibe IQ for line adoptions, ensuring all documentation is updated throughout the seasonal process as changes occur• Create detailed style handoff packages for Product Development, Technical Design, and Fabric teams, including precise material specifications, trim details, fit direction, and wash processing requirements
Cross-Functional Collaboration & Communication• Serve as a key liaison between Design, Product Development, Technical Design, Trim Department, and Merchandising to ensure seamless information flow and timely communication of changes throughout the development process• Support preparation and execution of all Design Meetings, Board Reviews, Handoffs, Line Reviews, and Showroom Openings• Attend all fittings, document detailed notes for follow-up actions, and assist with fit preparation
Organization & Management• Maintain and organize all electronic and physical design materials for easy access and reference• Assist in maintaining the product design library to support ongoing inspiration and research• Support ad hoc projects and collaborate with the team on special initiatives as needed Education & Experience • Work experience in apparel design, preferably with a focus on denim and roughwear bottoms • Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design or related field preferred
Brand & Product Knowledge • Deep understanding of RRL's iconic heritage, craftsmanship standards, and brand DNA • Genuine passion for authentic vintage clothing with extensive knowledge of historical sportswear, military, western, and workwear references • Expert eye for washing techniques, patinas, and artisanal details that define timeless, authentic style • Strong vintage aesthetic sensibility with ability to translate historical references into modern, commercially viable designs
Technical Skills • Strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, XD) • Proficient in Web PLM and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook) • Proficient in flat sketching and color rendering with strong illustration capabilities • Comprehensive understanding of garment construction and finishing techniques • Working knowledge of pattern making and garment fit principles
Core Competencies • Exceptional attention to detail with a meticulous approach to design specifications • Excellent organizational skills with proven ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting critical deadlines • Strong verbal and written communication skills with consistent follow-through • Collaborative team player with strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively across departments • Proactive problem-solver who takes initiative and adapts quickly to changing priorities
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Ralph Lauren will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records in a manner consistent with the requirements of the law, including any applicable fair chance laws. Please note background checks will be evaluated individually.