General Summary
The Designer I - Fashion Accessories/Belts is responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and developing innovative and trend-forward fashion accessories that align with our brand aesthetic and customer expectations. This position supports the Wholesale Accessories business.
The responsibilities described below are considered essential functions of the role. This position is based in our NYC office and requires working on-site five days per week.
Key Responsibilities
- Research seasonal trends, materials, colors, and consumer behavior to inform design direction
- Create sketches, technical drawings, and digital renderings for a wide range of accessories (e.g., cold weather, belts, scarves, hats, hair accessories etc)
- Develop mood boards and concept presentations
- Source and select appropriate materials, hardware, and trims
- Collaborate with product development and sourcing teams to create prototypes and ensure production feasibility
- Participate in fittings and provide feedback to ensure product quality, construction, and fit
- Maintain awareness of competitive brands and industry innovations
- Work closely with cross-functional teams to meet design calendars and collection deadlines
- Ensure designs align with cost, margin, and sustainability targets
- Able to manage multiple projects and deadlines with support and resources as needed
- Perform other duties and special projects as assigned
Specific Job Skills:
Essential duties include
- Portfolio showcasing innovative and commercial accessory designs
- Experience working with overseas manufacturers and understanding of the production lifecycle
- Familiarity with sustainable materials and practices in accessory design
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Accessory Design, Industrial Design, or related field
- Minimum of 5–7 years of experience in accessory design (fashion or related industry)
- Excellent interpersonal, problem-solving, and organizational skills
- Strong sketching and illustration skills (digital)
- Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign)
- Excellent knowledge of materials, manufacturing techniques, and industry trends
- Strong communication and presentation skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- Detail-oriented with a strong sense of style and trend awareness
The expected base salary for this position ranges from $85,000-$95,000. Ranges are based on various factors such as relevant skillset, training, years of experience related to the current job description, education, and our organizational structure. In addition to the base salary, Steve Madden offers a competitive benefits package that includes health and dental insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, 401K, paid holidays, a generous paid time-off policy, and career opportunities within a dynamic team.
Top Skills
What We Do
Steven Madden, Ltd. is globally recognized as a leading company in the fashion industry. What began as a modest $1100 investment in 1990 has developed into one of the most iconic brands in footwear. From a factory in Queens, NY, Steve Madden has revolutionized the shoe industry, merging years of experience with unique and creative designs. Inspired by rock and roll and his NY roots, Steve’s vision to provide on-trend women and men with an outlet to express their individuality is innovative, daring, and inspiring. Steve’s innate understanding of trends and unparalleled willpower have resulted in millions of customers worldwide and propelled his designs to the forefront of fashion.
In addition to marketing products under its own brands including Steve Madden®, Kurt Geiger London®, Dolce Vita®, Betsey Johnson®, Carvela®, Blondo® and ATM®, Steve Madden licenses footwear, handbags and other accessory categories for the Anne Klein® brand. In addition, Steve Madden designs and sources products under private label brand names for various retailers. Steve Madden’s wholesale distribution includes department stores, mass merchants, off-price retailers, shoe chains, online retailers, national chains, specialty retailers and independent stores. Steve Madden also directly operates brick-and-mortar retail stores and e-commerce websites. In addition, Steve Madden licenses certain of its brands to third parties for the marketing and sale of certain products in the apparel, accessory, and home categories.
With an emphasis on retail, wholesale, licensing and international business, there's a constant need for new ideas and versatility. Our environment is extremely fast paced and requires associates to maintain a balance of energy and professionalism. Steve Madden is about fashion-forward product and great people. Our employees are energized, intelligent and passionate about our business and committed to providing excellent customer service.
