Freelance Head of Design - Remote - Global Luxury RTW Brand

Mode Search is supporting an exciting, independently owned contemporary luxury womenswear brand in the search for a talented  Freelance Designer .

This is an ongoing freelance opportunity, working predominantly remotely with travel to the brand's recently established Milan or Paris office approximately once a month for 2–3 days.

Reporting directly to and working in close collaboration with the Founder and Creative Director, the successful candidate will play an integral role in translating the brand's creative vision into beautifully executed collections. The position offers significant creative exposure and the potential for longer-term opportunities as the business continues to grow.

The Role

Work closely with the Founder and Creative Director to develop and execute seasonal womenswear collections, ensuring a consistent and elevated design direction.

Translate creative concepts into sophisticated, commercially relevant designs that reflect the brand's minimalist and contemporary luxury aesthetic.

Contribute to the design and development of a refined ready-to-wear offering, with a strong focus on silhouette, proportion, fabrication and detail.

Research and interpret relevant trends, cultural influences, materials and design references while maintaining the brand's distinctive identity.

Develop design concepts through sketches, technical drawings, mood boards, colour palettes and fabric research.

Support the end-to-end design process, from initial concept and development through to sampling, fittings and final product approval.

Collaborate with the wider design and product development teams to ensure creative ideas are translated accurately into finished garments.

Participate in fittings, reviewing garment construction, fit, proportion and finishing to achieve the highest standards of quality.

Work closely with Italian development and production partners to ensure designs are realised in line with the creative vision.

Contribute fresh ideas and creative solutions while maintaining the brand's established design codes and aesthetic.

Manage multiple design priorities and deadlines within a fast-moving, entrepreneurial environment.

Support the continued evolution of the brand's product offering as it expands its international presence.

Requirements

Proven experience in a womenswear design position within the luxury, contemporary luxury or premium designer market.

A strong design portfolio demonstrating a sophisticated, modern and understated aesthetic.

Excellent understanding of luxury ready-to-wear, with particular strength in silhouette, proportion, fabrication and garment construction.

A refined creative sensibility aligned with brands such as The Row, Jil Sander, Phoebe Philo, Alaïa, Saint Laurent and Prada.

Experience working across the full design process, from initial research and concept development through to final production.

Strong technical design skills, including sketching, CAD development and an understanding of garment construction.

Excellent knowledge of luxury fabrics, finishes and manufacturing techniques.

Previous experience collaborating with Italian manufacturers, ateliers or production teams would be advantageous.

Confident working directly with senior creative leadership, with the ability to interpret feedback and translate creative direction into compelling designs.

Highly organised, adaptable and comfortable managing projects independently within a remote working structure.

A collaborative and proactive approach, with strong communication skills and meticulous attention to detail.

Willingness and flexibility to travel to Milan approximately once a month.

Availability to undertake an ongoing freelance assignment, with the potential to develop alongside a rapidly growing international luxury brand.

Please note that, due to the volume of applications, we will only contact successful candidates.