Design Assistant, Kids Accessories

Who We Are:

Steve Madden is a global fashion company known for its innovative, trend-driven footwear, accessories, and apparel. Founded in 1990 in Queens, New York, the company has grown from a footwear startup into a globally recognized fashion organization with a portfolio of leading brands, including Steve Madden, Kurt Geiger London, Dolce Vita, Betsey Johnson, Carvela, Blondo, and ATM.

With a presence in more than 80 countries, Steve Madden operates across wholesale, retail, e-commerce, licensing, and private label businesses. The company is driven by creativity, individuality, and a fast-paced entrepreneurial spirit, bringing fashion-forward products to consumers around the world.

General Summary

The Design Assistant, Kids Accessories supports the design and development of seasonal accessories for boys and girls. This role works closely with the design team to research trends, create sketches and CADs, prepare technical specifications, and assist with product development from concept through production. This position is based in our NYC office and requires working on-site 4 days per week and 1 day from hom.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with seasonal trend, color, and material research tailored to the kids’ market.
• Support the design and development of accessories, including bags, duffels, handbags, hats, backpacks, and belts.
• Create digital sketches, CADs, and technical specifications using Adobe Creative Suite.
• Prepare and maintain tech packs, design boards, and product development materials.
• Communicate with overseas factories to support product development, follow up on samples, and address design-related updates.
• Collaborate with designers, production, and sourcing teams to ensure products align with design direction, quality standards, and cost targets.
• Assist with material, trim, hardware, fabric, and color selection.
• Support the development of prints, graphics, and embellishments as needed.
• Review samples and provide feedback to ensure products align with design intent.
• Track samples, revisions, and development deadlines to keep seasonal projects on schedule.
• Research competitor products, market trends, and consumer insights relevant to the kids’ accessories market.
• Manage multiple projects and priorities with guidance from the design team.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Degree in Fashion Design, Accessories Design, or a related field preferred.
• 1+ years of experience in fashion or accessories design; experience in kids’ accessories is a plus.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Illustrator and Photoshop.
• Strong sketching, CAD, and technical drawing skills.
• Basic understanding of tech packs, materials, and product development processes.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with a proactive attitude and eagerness to learn.

The expected base salary for this position ranges from $26.00-28.00/hr. 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.