Celebrating Mother’s Day and the Power of Temporary Talent

Mother’s Day is a moment to celebrate the people who do it all—and a great reminder that work-life balance looks different for everyone. Brands are increasingly recognizing the importance of supporting working parents with flexible options, including maternity leave coverage.

We often see clients reaching out with temporary or freelance needs to fill these types of gaps—whether it’s a brand marketing lead going out on parental leave or a product development manager stepping away for a few months. And these roles are more than just stopgaps. They’re opportunities to bring in fresh perspective, keep momentum going, and make sure transitions feel seamless.

Freelance and temp talent brings a unique kind of adaptability. These professionals know how to get up to speed quickly, handle short-term priorities with confidence, and deliver results without a long onboarding process. Many have years of experience across top brands and can be a huge asset during times of team transition.

Whether it’s three months or a full year, maternity leave coverage doesn’t have to mean a pause in progress. With the right support, it can actually be a moment for brands to strengthen their team, try out new talent, and plan for long-term success.

And for professionals interested in freelance or temp work, these roles offer flexibility, fresh experiences, and a way to stay connected to the industry without a long-term commitment. It’s a win-win.

We connect brands with creative, experienced freelance talent ready to jump in—maternity coverage included. We’re here to support whatever your team needs, whenever you need it.

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: Wellness Center Technician

Our client is a high-tech wellness center in Glendale and is looking for full-time Technicians who are passionate about human performance, recovery, and innovation.
Work hands-on with advanced therapies like cryo, red light, PEMF, and metabolic testing. $22–$25/hr + major perks.
If you’re energized by tech, health, and helping people level up — we want to meet you. Apply today.

Pop-Up in Aspen, CO!

Our client, a sustainability-focused luxury jewelry brand, is seeking experienced Sales Associates to support their Artist in Residence installation at Hotel Jerome in Aspen, running June through September 2025.

Looking for interested candidates who are ready to deliver high-touch service, support VIP experiences, and bring the brand’s story to life in a refined, exclusive setting.

Sustainability in Fashion: Earth Day 2025

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a movement shaping the future of fashion, home, and beauty. As brands and consumers become more conscious of their environmental impact, Earth Day serves as a powerful reminder of the work still to be done and the strides being made toward a greener industry.

The fashion industry continues to innovate with eco-friendly materials, circular design principles, and ethical manufacturing. From plant-based leather alternatives to brands embracing resale and rental models, sustainable fashion is no longer a niche—it’s an expectation. Brands that prioritize transparency, carbon footprint reduction, and ethical sourcing are leading the way. Our clients, Mavi Jeans, Everlane, Mother Denim, and 7 For All Mankind are at the forefront of sustainable fashion, incorporating organic materials, ethical production methods, and innovative recycling initiatives to reduce their environmental footprint.

In home goods, sustainability means investing in durable, responsibly made products. Whether it’s furniture crafted from reclaimed wood, biodegradable packaging, or energy-efficient manufacturing, home brands are proving that style and sustainability can go hand in hand. Consumers are looking for companies that align with their values, making green practices a business advantage.

Beauty brands are making significant strides in sustainability, too. Refillable packaging, waterless formulas, and cruelty-free testing are becoming industry standards. Consumers are reading ingredient labels more closely and demanding that their favorite brands commit to cleaner, more ethical production practices.

For companies looking to hire in this evolving landscape, sustainability expertise is becoming a sought-after skill. Whether it’s hiring product developers with knowledge of sustainable materials, marketers who can tell a brand’s eco-story authentically, or supply chain professionals who can drive ethical sourcing, the need for green-minded talent is growing.

At Emerging Blue, we connect brands with talent that shares their sustainability values. Whether you’re looking to build a team that can drive your eco-initiatives forward or searching for a company that prioritizes sustainability, we’re here to help. Let’s work together to shape a more sustainable future.

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: Licensed Esthetician

We're looking for a Licensed Esthetician to represent our client at two in-store Sephora events this May!
Join us for events on May 2nd and May 11th from 12–6 PM. If you're licensed in Washington, available on those dates, and excited about working with a leading beauty brand, we’d love to hear from you—apply today!

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: Sales Director

We’re working with a sustainable towel brand that’s growing fast and looking for a Sales Director to play a pivotal role in that next chapter. This is for someone who’s excited to build smart systems, lead with purpose, and drive real growth in a company that actually cares about people and the planet.

If you're sales-driven, into sustainable brands, and want to help shape something meaningful, this could be for you! $80-100K base + commission.

How to Find Candidates in Remote Areas

Sourcing talent in remote areas comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. While some regions may have a smaller talent pool, they can also be home to highly skilled professionals who are overlooked due to location. With the rise of remote work and digital hiring strategies, companies have more access than ever to untapped talent markets.

Recruiting from remote areas has its pros and cons. On the plus side, hiring from these locations can provide access to candidates with unique skill sets and perspectives, often at more competitive salary ranges than in major metropolitan areas. It can also foster greater diversity and a broader talent pipeline. However, challenges like time zone differences and limited local professional networks can make the process more complex.

Best practices for identifying and reaching candidates in remote markets start with a strong digital recruitment strategy. Leveraging local job boards, online communities, and regional networking events can help surface great talent. Personalized outreach and clear communication about remote work expectations also go a long way in engaging candidates who may not actively be job searching.

Various tools and platforms can aid in remote recruitment. Industry job boards and specialized recruiters can be useful for sourcing talent, while platforms like Zoom, HireVue, and other video interview tools streamline the hiring process. AI-driven sourcing tools can also help identify passive candidates in specific regions.

At Emerging Blue, we have successfully executed remote recruitment campaigns for fashion, home, and beauty brands looking to expand their teams beyond traditional hiring hubs. Whether it’s finding an eCommerce expert in a small town or a marketing strategist in a non-traditional market, we connect companies with the right talent, no matter where they are.

Need help sourcing candidates in remote areas? Our team specializes in finding top talent in every corner of the country. Let’s connect and build your team together!

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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.

Learn more today

5 Golden Skills for Retail Candidates in 2025

The retail landscape is evolving fast, and the most successful candidates will be those who bring a mix of technical know-how, adaptability, and customer-first thinking to the table. Whether in luxury fashion, home goods, or beauty, these five skills will set standout retail professionals apart in 2025.

1. Customer-Centric Communication is more important than ever. With an omnichannel shopping experience—ranging from in-store service to online chatbots and social media interactions—candidates who excel at engaging customers across multiple touchpoints will be in high demand.

2. Data Interpretation and Problem-Solving have become core skills in retail. Understanding customer behavior, tracking product trends, and analyzing sales data can make a major impact on business performance. Employers value candidates who can translate numbers into actionable insights.

3. Multitasking with Technology is now a must-have skill. Whether handling POS systems, managing inventory through software, or using CRM platforms to personalize customer experiences, retail professionals who are comfortable with tech-driven operations will thrive.

4. Adaptability and Learning Agility define the modern retail worker. With frequent shifts in consumer expectations, store layouts, and emerging technologies, being quick to adjust and open to learning new systems will make candidates indispensable.

5. Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity are essential as brands expand their global reach. Retail teams need professionals who understand and embrace diversity, ensuring every customer feels seen, heard, and valued.

For brands looking to build a strong retail team, hiring candidates with these five golden skills will be key to long-term success. At Emerging Blue, we specialize in connecting top retail talent with forward-thinking brands. Whether you’re looking for retail support for a permanent store or temporary pop-up, let’s connect!

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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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Brand DNA: Finding the Authentic Match

Now Hiring: Digital Graphic Designer