Designer (12-month FTC)

Launched in 2017, KNWLS is a London-based brand founded by Central Saint Martins graduates Charlotte Knowles and Alexandre Arsenault. A Fashion East alum and an LVMH Prize 2022 finalist, KNWLS was shortlisted for British Womenswear Designer of the Year at The Fashion Awards 2025, as well as for the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund in 2024 and 2026. KNWLS continues to build its list of elite stockists and international fanbase, and has collaborated with Jean Paul Gaultier, G-Star RAW, Miss Sixty, and Nike.

KNWLS is looking for an experienced Designer to join the team. Working closely with the Creative Directors, the Designer will lead the design team through the development of seasonal collections and special projects, taking concepts from initial research and experimentation through to final SMS and ensuring the creative vision is maintained throughout development. The role requires a distinctive creative point of view, combining strong creative and technical design skills with a detailed understanding of KNWLS’ aesthetic, product and design language. An immediate start is preferred.

COLLECTION DESIGN

• Work closely with the Creative Directors to develop and execute the seasonal collection in line with the overall creative direction and KNWLS design language.
• Lead the design process of the collection from initial research and concept through to final SMS.
• Bring a strong design point of view that evolves the KNWLS aesthetic through silhouette, proportion, colour, fabrication and detail.
• Translate seasonal research and references into clear, resolved and commercially relevant product proposals.
  

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

• Develop extensive research, concepts, renders and sketches that establish a clear and compelling design direction.
• Work hands-on through draping, mock-ups and experimentation to explore new silhouettes, construction techniques and product ideas.
• Lead fittings, using strong technical knowledge to refine silhouette, proportion, construction and finish through to the final product.
• Review prototypes, toiles, fabric tests, trims and samples, making design decisions and adjustments as required.
• Work closely with the Development team to ensure designs meet agreed timelines, target price points and merchandising requirements. Follow each product through development to ensure the original design intention is maintained.
• Identify design or development issues early and propose practical creative solutions.
• Ensure design information, artwork, CADs and references are clearly communicated and kept up to date.
• Propose fabrics, trims, finishes, techniques and garment references that can inform the collection.
• Build and maintain seasonal research, development and design boards.
• Continually explore new techniques, materials, ideas and ways of working that can progress the KNWLS collection and wider design direction.
• Maintain awareness of the wider market while ensuring the collection retains a distinct and original point of view.
  

DESIGN TEAM & CROSS-FUNCTIONAL COLLABORATION

• Champion innovation and contribute to building a cohesive collection that balances creativity, desirability and commercial relevance.
• Guide, inspire and develop junior members of the design team, creating an environment where ideas are shared, challenged and developed with confidence. Delegate design and research tasks where appropriate and review work to ensure consistency and quality.
• Partner closely with Design, Pattern Cutting, Product Development, Production and Commercial teams to bring concepts to life while maintaining the integrity of the original design vision.
• Work with the Commercial team to develop products with a strong understanding of the KNWLS customer, collection architecture and commercial opportunity.
• Maintain an organised and efficient design process, ensuring deadlines and Creative Director review points are met.
  

SPECIAL PROJECTS

• Support the Creative Directors on selected collaborations, custom projects, VIP dressing and special product developments where required.
• Develop design proposals and product concepts for these projects while ensuring they remain consistent with the KNWLS identity.
  

KEY SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Proven experience as a Womenswear Designer within a luxury or premium fashion brand, with experience developing elevated ready-to-wear collections.
• Experience designing across multiple product categories and maintaining consistency across a collection.
• Strong creative point of view and ability to develop an initial concept into a complete and cohesive collection.
• Excellent understanding of silhouette, proportion, construction, pattern cutting, fit, fabrication and finishing, with an eye for detail.
• Strong drawing, CAD and visual communication skills.
• Excellent knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud and relevant CAD and design software.
• Proficient in Google Workspace, macOS, Miro and Monday. Experience with Zedonk or similar systems is desirable.
• Ability to balance directional fashion and brand elevation with customer relevance, commerciality, and a considered collection architecture.
• A sharp eye for colour, detail, and proportion, with the ability to translate concepts into refined designs.
  

CANDIDATE PROFILE

• A strong understanding of the KNWLS brand, aesthetic and design language.
• Meticulous attention to detail and a high standard of visual and product judgement.
• Highly organised, with the ability to prioritise, delegate and manage multiple styles and projects within seasonal timelines.
• Comfortable receiving direction and feedback from Creative Directors and translating it quickly into resolved design solutions.
• Excellent collaboration and stakeholder management skills, with experience working across multiple teams and external suppliers.
• Motivated by the variety and collaboration that comes with working in a small, agile team.
• Ability to work calmly and effectively within a fast-paced seasonal environment.
• Additional language skills are a plus.
• Must have the right to live and work in the UK (no relocation or visa sponsorship available).
• Occasional work travel may be required.

Please note, to be considered please include a portfolio with examples of your work most suited to the KNWLS design aesthetic. Your portfolio should demonstrate strong research and concept development, silhouette and proportion, draping or three-dimensional development, fabric and material exploration and examples of finished products.

This is a full-time, 12-month FTC role based at our South London studio, five days per week. Salary is dependent on experience. Please apply with a CV and portfolio to [email protected].