At Designer Brands, we are the proud parent company of DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe Company, and Rubino, operating nearly 675 stores across North America and a billion-dollar digital commerce business. We lead the footwear industry with a diverse portfolio of iconic brands, including Topo Athletic, Keds, Vince Camuto, Kelly & Katie, Jessica Simpson, Lucky Brand, Mix No. 6, Crown Vintage, and others. With expertise in design, production, and sourcing, we create on-trend footwear and accessories, delivered through a robust omni-channel infrastructure and national wholesale distribution. At Designer Brands, we are committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, where each employee’s unique perspective contributes to our success. Anchored by our core values of “We Love What We Do,” “We Own What We Do,” “We Do What’s Right,” and “We Belong,” we continuously drive forward together, building a future where everyone can put their best foot forward.
Supports the Keds design team in bringing fresh, thoughtful product to life each season. Contributes to the full design journey—from early concept through production—while collaborating closely with Senior Design and the Design Director. Develops designs that reflect a strong understanding of the Keds brand and the footwear creation process. Elevates seasonal stories through color, materials, and trend-aware thinking that resonates with our consumers. This position is HYBRID to our Burlington, MA office.
Reports to: Director, Design
- Support Senior Designer and Design Director in building product lines that reflect the Keds Brand DNA.
- Create 2D CADs using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, translating direction into polished visuals.
- Develop colorways and material options for new and seasonal styles.
- Participate in concept, trend, and design meetings, contributing ideas and solutions.
- Research fashion trends and consumer preferences across global regions.
- Maintain ongoing knowledge of market shifts to inform design decisions.
- Leverage trend insights to support design discussions with cross functional partners.
- Partner with product development, product management, and marketing to ensure designs are feasible, cost effective, and compelling for the marketplace.
- Communicate clearly and adapt quickly as design needs evolve.
- Maintain design assets including CAD updates, tech packs, and organized design files.
- Assist with upkeep and organization of the Material Library, applying strong fabrication knowledge.
- Follow seasonal calendar deadlines to keep projects on track.
- Meet expectations for quality, accuracy, and timely completion of work.
- Stay curious—continuously learning and supporting all aspects of the design process.
Technical Skills
- Strong 2D CAD capabilities in Adobe Illustrator (required).
- Proficiency in Illustrator and Photoshop; working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
- Ability to produce accurate CADs and apply core design principles.
- Solid understanding of fabrications, materials, and design terminology.
Creative + Analytical Skills
- Ability to quickly interpret direction and turn concepts into high quality designs.
- Strong eye for women’s fashion and consumer relevant style.
- Comfort using trend research and market insights to guide design decisions.
Collaboration + Communication
- Excellent listening skills and confidence in following direction.
- Adaptable, collaborative team partner with strong communication.
- Strong organization, time management, and attention to detail.
- 2–4 years of footwear experience; women’s fashion, women’s sneakers, or kids’ sneakers preferred.
- Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent combination of education and experience) in footwear design, fashion, or industrial design, in that order of preference.
Perks and Benefits You’ll Enjoy!
- Your Sole Well-Being: Our benefits package is crafted with our associates in mind! We support you with benefits like free virtual health care, robust family/fertility benefits, 401(k) w/ match, and more. Explore our offerings at https://mymobilewalletcard.com/dbi.
- Stride with Flexibility: We offer hybrid and remote work opportunities, giving you the freedom to stay connected, productive, and inspired—wherever you do your best work.
- Stepping Up Your Career: Take advantage of training programs, professional development, and education assistance to advance your career with a company that celebrates bold ideas and fresh perspectives.
- We are Shoe-Obsessed: Because we know a great pair of shoes can change your day, you’ll enjoy 30% off at DSW & com, plus discounts across our family of brands.
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What We Do
Designer Brands is one of North America’s largest designers, producers and retailers of footwear and accessories that operates retail concepts. Our primary concept, DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, offers brand name and designer dress, casual and athletic footwear and accessories. The first store opened in 1991 in Dublin, Ohio. Today, DSW operates more than 500 stores in 44 states. The Affiliated Business Group operates nearly 290 leased departments for other retailers, such as Stein Mart, in the U.S. Designer Brands also operates several retail concepts in Canada, including The Shoe Company and Shoe Warehouse, which provide a convenient footwear solution for the whole family, as well as DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse – nearly 150 locations in all. In 2018, the company acquired Camuto Group, the legendary product design and brand development organization best known for the successful Vince Camuto® brand and the footwear licenses of Jessica Simpson® and Lucky Brand®. The partnership transformed Designer Brands into one of the largest footwear companies in North America with global, industry-leading capabilities in product design, development, sourcing and production.
