Senior Leather Apparel Designer

Company Description

S. M. Lulla Industries Worldwide is a leading leather garment manufacturer headquartered in Chennai, India, serving high-end fashion brands in the U.S. and Europe since 1987. Known for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship, the company operates 8 production facilities with over 1,250 employees. With in-house design expertise and advanced production technologies, S. M. Lulla Industries delivers innovative and fashion-forward leather garments crafted from premium napa and suede materials. Leveraging global trend insights and data-driven methodologies, the company partners closely with its clients to create commercially relevant product designs. S. M. Lulla Industries is committed to ethical practices, social impact initiatives, and upholding the highest global quality standards as an LWG Gold certified organization.

Job Description

Position: Senior Fashion Designer Leather (Client Interface)

Location: Chennai, India

Experience: Minimum 6+ years

Industry: Leather Garment Manufacturing (Export US, Europe)

Role Overview

This is a full-time, on-site Senior Designer role based in Chennai, India. The Senior Designer will play a key role in conceptualizing and developing innovative leather garment designs aligned with industry trends and client specifications. We are looking for a proactive and detail-oriented designer who will act as the key interface between our international clients, internal merchandising teams, and the sampling/pattern departments. This role combines design development, client communication, and technical coordination to ensure accurate execution of styles from concept to pilot production.

Key Responsibilities

Client; Design Development

• Serve as the primary design contact for clients, communicating via email and virtual meetings.
• Understand client briefs, reference images, tech packs, and aesthetic requirements.Translate client inputs into clear internal design and technical directions.
• Provide design inputs, suggestions, and value engineering where required.
• Maintain professional and timely communication with international merchandising/design teams.

Sampling; Pattern Coordination

• Act as the link between clients and internal sampling and pattern departments.
• Ensure accurate interpretation of client requirements in patterns, fit, and construction.
• Follow up on sample development timelines and revisions.
• Review samples for design accuracy, fit, construction, and finishing before dispatch.
• Track comments and ensure all revisions are implemented correctly

Collection Development (Proactive Design)

Design and develop original leather styles and sample collections for:

• Client meetings
• Sales trips and presentations
• Seasonal developments
• Stay updated on international fashion trends, materials, washes, and finishes relevant to leather garments.

Pilot Run; Production Readiness

• Review and approve pilot runs at the factory along with the concerned merchant.
• Ensure the pilot reflects approved design, fit, trims, and workmanship standards.
• Highlight and resolve any design or technical issues before bulk production.

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Work closely with merchandising, production, sourcing, and quality teams.
• Assist in trim, hardware, leather, and wash/finish selection.
• Maintain organized records of styles, approvals, comments, and developments.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in fashion design software, such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop
• Proven ability in trend research and interpretation, and strong understanding of global high-fashion trends
• Experience with technical sketches, fabric/leather selection, and design specifications
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills to work effectively with internal and client teams
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design or a related field
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in designing leather garments or premium fashion wear
• Familiarity with production processes and experience collaborating with manufacturing teams
• Passion for innovation and a commitment to quality and precision
• Knowledge of leather types, finishes, and hardware is a plus.

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree/Diploma in Fashion Design (NIFT or equivalent preferred).
• Exposure to client meetings or overseas development processes.

Compensation:

INR 80,000 - 1,20,000 per month