Join our client’s legacy streetwear brand as a Senior Accessories Designer! You’ll work closely with Graphic Design, Sales, and Merch to lead multiple design areas and help drive the vision and execution of apparel lines from start to finish. 8+ years experience, NYC-based, $75–100K.
Now Hiring: Store Manager
Take the lead on a brand-new store opening at The Mills at Jersey Gardens. Our client, a Brooklyn-based streetwear brand, is looking for an experienced Store Manager to build and run the team—someone who brings strong leadership, operational know-how, and a deep connection to style and culture. $75-85K.
Freelancing vs. Full-Time: Which Fashion Career Path Is Right for You?
In fashion, career paths aren’t one-size-fits-all. As the industry continues to evolve, more professionals are exploring freelance opportunities alongside traditional full-time roles. Each path offers a different rhythm, and knowing which one suits your goals can make all the difference.
Freelance work offers freedom. Designers, marketers, and creatives who thrive on variety and independence often find contract roles energizing. Freelancers might juggle projects with multiple brands, build diverse portfolios, and work from anywhere. But it comes with trade-offs—less stability, inconsistent income, and the need to self-manage everything from taxes to client relationships.
Full-time roles, on the other hand, provide structure. These positions often include benefits, clear growth trajectories, and a consistent team environment. For those who want to immerse themselves in a single brand, go deep on strategy, and develop within an organization, full-time can offer more long-term investment.
There’s no right answer. Some creatives build hybrid careers, shifting between freelance and full-time based on life stage, interests, or economic shifts. Whichever route you take, the most important thing is aligning your career with how you want to work—and live.
At EB, we place both freelance and full-time talent across fashion, home, and beauty brands. If you’re weighing your options or exploring new directions, our team can help you find what fits!
Now Hiring: Senior Kids Apparel Designer
Our client is seeking a seasoned Senior Kids Apparel Designer with a strong background in sportswear to lead the creation and execution of trend-forward, brand-aligned collections. This role involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams including Graphic Design, Sales, and Merchandising to drive product development from concept to final execution. Ideal candidates will bring a keen eye for design, strong leadership skills, and proven experience in kidswear, particularly in denim and cut-and-sew apparel. NY-Based. $90-120K.
Behind the Glam: The Talent That Makes the Met Gala Happen
The Met Gala is fashion’s biggest night—and while the red carpet turns heads and dominates headlines, it’s the behind-the-scenes talent that brings the spectacle to life. From designers and stylists to PR teams, event producers, and marketing minds, the Met Gala is a masterclass in collaboration.
Designers often spend months preparing for the event, creating couture looks that will be dissected and celebrated across every platform. Stylists work alongside them, pairing the pieces with the right accessories, hair, and makeup to tell a complete story. But it doesn’t stop there.
Event planners and production crews transform the Met into a thematic wonderland, ensuring every detail fits the year’s narrative. PR teams carefully manage appearances, press releases, and interviews. Marketing pros coordinate content, social strategy, and partnerships to maximize exposure. And all of this is done under tight deadlines, ever-changing logistics, and high expectations.
Freelance talent is critical during events like the Met Gala. From temporary PR support to social media coverage and last-minute design help, the flexibility and specialized skillsets of freelance professionals make them indispensable in pulling off something of this scale.
The Met Gala isn’t just about the fashion—it’s a showcase of what’s possible when the right people come together to create something unforgettable. And for those looking to work in this world, it’s a reminder that every career path in fashion, beauty, and events has a place in moments like these.
At Emerging Blue, we work with brands year-round to find the talent behind high-impact events—from seasoned planners to freelance creatives. Whether you're building a team or looking to join one, we’re here to connect you with the right opportunities.
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Now Hiring: Retail Store Planner
We're hiring a Retail Store Planner in Washington, D.C. to support planning and allocation for our Brick & Mortar channel—owning reporting, inventory management, and sales analysis. If you thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, we'd love to hear from you.
Tech & Innovation in Fashion: Shaping the Future of Careers
The intersection of technology and fashion has never been more dynamic. As brands embrace AI, digital strategies, and cutting-edge materials, the industry is evolving at a rapid pace. From AI-generated designs to tech-infused wearables, innovation is driving both creativity and efficiency, shaping new opportunities for job seekers looking to make their mark in fashion.
AI is playing a pivotal role in fashion design, from trend forecasting to automated pattern creation. While some fear that AI could replace traditional design jobs, it’s more likely to serve as a tool that enhances the creative process. Designers who understand how to leverage AI for efficiency and inspiration will have a competitive edge. Roles that merge AI expertise with fashion knowledge—such as digital stylists or AI-driven textile developers—are on the rise, signaling a shift in how brands approach design and production.
Techwear and innovation are also reshaping the future of fashion careers. Smart fabrics, sustainable innovations, and augmented reality shopping experiences are becoming industry standards. As brands integrate more technology into their business models, demand for professionals who can navigate these advancements continues to grow. Whether it’s engineers creating interactive garments or marketers strategizing digital rollouts, the fusion of tech and fashion is generating new career paths across the board.
With major fashion tech events setting the tone for the year, brands are refining their digital strategies to stay ahead. Companies investing in AI, blockchain for supply chain transparency, and 3D printing for sustainable production are setting new industry benchmarks. For job seekers, staying informed about these innovations and upskilling in relevant tech areas can open doors to exciting career opportunities in an industry that thrives on transformation.
At Emerging Blue, we connect fashion brands with forward-thinking talent ready to embrace innovation. Whether you’re a designer exploring AI tools, a developer passionate about fashion tech, or a marketer strategizing digital trends, we help match top talent with brands shaping the future. Let’s innovate together.
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Now Hiring: VP Product Management
Our client, a global player in the footwear game, is on the hunt for a VP of Product Management to lead the charge on product creation, strategy, and innovation across D2C and wholesale channels. If you’re passionate about footwear, driven by consumer insight, and ready to shape the future of product for a dynamic, growing brand—this could be your next big move.
Now Hiring: Store Manager
We’re on the lookout for a Store Manager for our client’s East Hampton boutique. Great opportunity to lead daily operations, mentor a small team, drive sales strategy, and ensure an elevated customer experience. Know someone who’d be a fit?
Now Hiring: General Manager
We’re hiring a General Manager to lead the team at our client’s premium menswear store. This role is all about seamless operations, strong sales, and representing sharp, elevated product. If you have experience running a retail floor, leading a team, and building client relationships—we’d love to connect.
Now Hiring: Senior Custom Graphic Designer - Apparel
Our client is looking for a skilled designer to create high-quality custom apparel graphics for music, sports, lifestyle, and corporate brands. This role requires strong design instincts, screen printing experience, and the ability to balance multiple projects while bringing fresh, creative ideas to the table. Preferably based in Tempe, AZ but also open to remove candidates.
Utilizing AI for Design Portfolios – Yay or Nay?
The design world is evolving, and AI is playing a bigger role than ever in shaping creative work. Whether it’s generating concepts, enhancing visuals, or streamlining workflow, AI-powered tools like Adobe Illustrator's AI features, Midjourney, and DALL-E are becoming part of the modern designer’s toolkit. But when it comes to using AI in design portfolios, is it a smart move or a red flag?
For many, AI is simply another tool in the creative process—much like Photoshop or Procreate. However, transparency is key. If AI-generated elements are a major part of a portfolio piece, acknowledging their use can show honesty and awareness of industry conversations. Some hiring managers may see AI integration as an innovative approach, while others may question originality and problem-solving skills.
That said, AI can be a game-changer in portfolio development. It allows designers to iterate faster, test new styles, and enhance presentation quality. The key is balance—using AI to support creativity rather than replace it. Strong portfolios still need to showcase conceptual thinking, personal vision, and technical skills beyond AI capabilities.
Ultimately, how AI is perceived in a portfolio depends on the industry, the role, and the hiring manager’s stance. As AI tools continue to advance, designers who embrace them thoughtfully and transparently may stand out as forward-thinking professionals, rather than those who rely on them as a shortcut. The verdict? AI in design portfolios isn’t inherently good or bad—it’s all about how it’s used.
At Emerging Blue, we connect brands with top creative talent who understand how to blend innovation with skill. Whether you’re looking for designers who leverage AI or those who bring a more traditional approach, we help you find the right fit for your team. Let’s build the future of design together.
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Now Hiring: Director of Retail
Our client, a global leader in denim fashion, is seeking a Director of Retail to drive strategy, lead teams, and elevate the brand's retail presence. If you’re a visionary retail leader with a passion for customer experience, operational excellence, and team development, this is your chance to make an impact!
Finance in Fashion: Where Numbers and Creativity Meet
Finance roles in the fashion industry go beyond spreadsheets and forecasts—they shape the strategies that keep brands thriving. From high-level financial planning to inventory management, these positions require a balance of analytical skills and industry insight. Here’s a look at key finance roles and how they contribute to fashion’s dynamic world.
Key Finance Roles in Fashion
Controller – Oversees financial reporting, compliance, and internal controls, ensuring brands remain profitable and accountable.
Financial Analyst – Provides data-driven insights on sales trends, cost structures, and budgeting to help brands make informed decisions.
Merchandise Financial Planner – Balances inventory, pricing, and demand forecasting to maximize profitability while minimizing excess stock.
Payroll Specialist – Manages compensation structures, benefits, and compliance, keeping brands competitive in attracting top talent.
Demand Planner – Predicts consumer demand using data analytics, ensuring brands stock the right products at the right time.
The Blend of Creativity and Analytics
Fashion finance professionals need more than just number-crunching skills. The industry moves fast, and financial experts must adapt to trends, consumer behavior shifts, and global economic changes. Understanding the creative aspects of fashion—like seasonal trends and brand positioning—helps finance teams provide strategic insights that align with business goals.
Why It’s a Unique Career Path
For those with a passion for fashion and a knack for finance, this field offers the best of both worlds. It’s an opportunity to influence the financial health of brands while staying engaged with the latest industry movements. Whether forecasting budgets for an emerging designer or optimizing supply chain costs for a global retailer, finance professionals play a crucial role in shaping fashion’s future.
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Now Hiring: Senior Manager, Digital Designer
Our client, Janie and Jack, an iconic Children’s brand based out of San Francisco, is looking for a Sr. Manager, Digital Designer to join their team. Reporting to the Sr. Creative Director, the Sr. Manager, Digital Designer will work closely with the creative team to develop and produce the e-commerce website, email campaigns, social, and online marketing initiatives for Janie and Jack. $120-$132K
Now Hiring: Key Holder in New Orleans!
Our client, a premier destination for high-quality, custom men's clothing, is hiring a full-time Key Holder to join their team in New Orleans. We’re looking for a trustworthy, driven, and passionate sales-oriented individual who is excited to grow with a team. Interested?