HUF is seeking a Freelance (Contract) Senior Apparel Designer for a period of six (6) months, with the possibility of extension based on business needs. This role will lead the design and execution of apparel, accessories, and headwear across seasonal collections.
This position is responsible for creating original, trend-relevant product that reflects HUF’s design philosophy rooted in skate culture, streetwear, and contemporary aesthetics. The ideal candidate is a strong creative collaborator who understands design history, manufacturing realities, and modern tools, and can move fluidly between all three to deliver product that is both innovative and commercially viable.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop seasonal collections across cut & sew apparel, accessories, and headwear, including tops, bottoms, outerwear, fleece, headwear & accessory categories
- Translate seasonal direction into cohesive design concepts, silhouettes, material stories, and product assortments aligned with HUF’s brand identity
- Lead by example as a strong creative partner—bringing clear vision, direction, and mentorship to the design team
- Create compelling design presentations and visual storytelling materials that clearly communicate product vision and intent
- Manage styles within PLM, including creation and ongoing updates of tech packs, BOMs, measurements, and construction details
- Build complete and accurate tech packages, specifying fabric, trim, color, fit, construction, graphic applications, and accessory-specific details
- Partner closely with Product Development to ensure designs are executable—supporting decisions around washes, finishes, materials, and construction techniques across all categories
- Design with a strong awareness of manufacturing parameters, lead times, efficiency, and quality standards
- Collaborate with Merchandising and Development to ensure alignment on product strategy, pricing, and timelines
- Oversee prototype development from concept through pre-production, ensuring design integrity, fit, and quality are maintained across apparel and accessories
- Work cross-functionally with Tech Design to refine fit and resolve construction challenges
- Stay deeply engaged in the market, fashion history, and cultural context—translating insights into relevant, forward-thinking product
- Mentor and support junior designers, fostering a collaborative, accountable, and high-performing team environment
Qualifications
- 5–7+ years of design experience across apparel, accessories, and/or headwear, preferably within a global streetwear or action sports brand
- Proven experience as a strong leader—capable of guiding creative direction, mentoring team members, and driving projects forward
- Strong portfolio demonstrating expertise in cut & sew apparel, accessories, and headwear from concept through final product
- Deep knowledge of fabric development, garment construction, trims, washes, silhouettes, and accessory design—grounded in fashion and design history
- Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, especially Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign
- Proven ability to design within manufacturing, cost, and margin constraints without compromising creative vision
- Strong understanding of PLM systems and product lifecycle management
- Excellent visual storytelling and communication skills, both verbal and presentation-based
- Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
- Collaborative, pragmatic, and solutions-oriented mindset
- Passion for streetwear, skate culture, and product with purpose
Reporting
This role reports directly to the VP Brand & Creative.
