Digital

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Utilizing AI for Design Portfolios – Yay or Nay?

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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

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Now Hiring: Senior Manager, Digital Designer

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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

Learn more today.

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Now Hiring: Director of Amazon Marketplace Growth

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Our client is a designer and manufacturer of high-quality consumer beauty products that are offered for sale online and through their wholesale distribution to major national well-known retailers. We are seeking a Director of Amazon Marketplace Growth that will be highly detail-oriented, have excellent communication skills, and has experience working with Amazon. Open to remote candidates. Interested?

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Your Guide to Social Media Careers: Job Hiring or Hunting

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Social media is more than just an extension of a brand’s marketing strategy—it’s where connection, creativity, and commerce intersect. For fashion, home, and beauty brands, having the right social media team is essential to stand out in today’s crowded digital landscape.

Whether you’re a candidate looking to make your mark in the industry or a brand seeking the right talent, here’s what’s shaping the most sought-after social media professionals.

1. Industry Knowledge is Key: Social media professionals who thrive in these industries know the audience, the trends, and the nuances of the market. Hiring managers are looking for candidates who can:

  • Stay in sync with industry trends: Whether it’s the rise of dopamine dressing in fashion, sustainable homeware, or multi-functional skincare, being informed adds immediate value.

  • Adapt to brand tone and personality: Social media strategies must reflect the brand’s identity. Knowing how to create content that aligns with an audience’s expectations—be it for a luxury home goods brand or a bold beauty startup—is critical.

2. Proven Skills in Influencer Marketing and Community Engagement: Relationships are at the heart of successful social media strategies. Candidates who can demonstrate expertise in:

  • Influencer marketing: Familiarity with platforms like LTK (formerly LIKEtoKNOW.it), AspireIQ, or other influencer management tools is highly valued. Hiring managers want candidates who know how to identify influencers, nurture partnerships, and measure the impact of these collaborations.

  • Community building: Beyond managing comments or DMs, brands need professionals who know how to cultivate a loyal audience, encourage meaningful conversations, and strengthen customer relationships through social platforms.

3. Content That’s Both Creative and Strategic: Content is the foundation of any social media strategy. Hiring managers are looking for candidates who can:

  • Create standout campaigns: From high-performing Instagram Reels to curated TikTok trends, having a portfolio that demonstrates creativity and measurable success is a must.

  • Leverage planning and analytics tools: Experience with tools like Sprout Social, Hootsuite, or Later shows the ability to manage campaigns effectively and use data to inform future strategies.

  • Track results: Brands want to see how your efforts translate into real growth—whether that’s engagement, audience expansion, or conversions.

4. A Blend of Creative and Technical Skills: Strong candidates know how to bring ideas to life while understanding the tools and strategies that make those ideas impactful. This includes:

  • Design and editing capabilities: Experience with platforms like Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, or CapCut can make a candidate stand out.

  • SEO and paid strategies: The ability to optimize content for search or create effective paid campaigns helps extend a brand’s reach and influence.

Our Role in Social Media Hiring

If you are looking for your next role, our team partners with some of the biggest names in fashion, home, and beauty. Whether you’re interested in startups or established brands, we’ll connect your expertise with roles that match your strengths.

For growing brands, we understand the industry and its unique challenges. From influencer marketing to analytics expertise, we help you find social media professionals who can elevate your digital presence and bring value to your team.

Looking Ahead

As the importance of social media grows, so does the need for professionals who can create impactful strategies, build strong communities, and deliver measurable results. Let’s connect!

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New Job: Sr. Manager, Digital Designer

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#NewJobAlert! We are hiring a Sr. Manager, Digital Designer for our client, a children’s brand based in SF. In this role, you will work closely with the creative team to develop and produce the brand’s e-commerce website, email campaigns, social, and online marketing initiatives. Salary: $135K

Interested? Learn more today!

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Now Hiring: Digital Graphic Designer

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We are seeking a highly talented and experienced Digital Graphic Designer to join our client’s Creative team. In this role, you will work with the Art Director to create innovative, high-quality designs aligned with our client’s brand standards, fostering creative excellence within the team. Hybrid (3 days in office) in Acton, MA. Salary: $58-75K.

Learn more today.

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Embracing Fall Hiring Trends: Navigating the Evolution of Fashion, Beauty, and Home Brands

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With the changing seasons comes a shift in the fashion, beauty, and home industries as they gear up for the upcoming fall hiring trends. As these industries evolve, companies are preparing to embrace the transformative power of fresh talent while adapting to the evolving landscape. 

Unveiling the Canvas of Creativity

 Fall has always been a time of artistic expression in the fashion, beauty, and home sectors. Brands are on the lookout for creative minds that can breathe life into their designs, concepts, and campaigns. The canvas of creativity is expanding, and companies are seeking talented individuals who can infuse their ideas with a touch of innovation. With the evolving aesthetic preferences, brands are committed to finding individuals who can channel their passion into meaningful and captivating creations.

 Tech-Savvy Minds for a Digital Tomorrow

 The fashion, home, and beauty industries are becoming increasingly digitized, calling for professionals with a knack for technology. Brands are actively seeking tech-savvy individuals who can navigate the digital realm. As eCommerce continues to flourish and virtual experiences gain momentum, brands are looking to hire individuals who can seamlessly blend creativity with technology, bringing engaging experiences to their customers' screens.

Sustainability Champions

The fall season also brings a renewed focus on sustainability. Brands are aligning their hiring strategies with a commitment to sustainability, aiming to lessen their environmental footprint. Professionals who are passionate about eco-friendly practices are highly sought after, as companies strive to incorporate sustainable materials, processes, and ideologies into their products and operations.

 Diverse Voices, Diverse Perspectives

The shift towards inclusivity and diversity remains a driving force in the fashion, beauty, and home industries, and is one that our EB team is extremely passionate about. Brands are recognizing the value of diverse voices and perspectives in their teams. They are actively seeking professionals from various backgrounds who can contribute to a richer tapestry of ideas, designs, and solutions. Companies are on a mission to create environments where every individual's uniqueness is celebrated and harnessed for collective success.

As the industry continues to transform, we aspire to serve as a guiding light for aspiring professionals navigating these changes. With a vast network, in-depth expertise, and unwavering commitment to connecting talent with their dream jobs, we strive to uncover your desired roles in this evolving landscape.

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 Navigating the Fashion Job Market in the Digital Era

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The fashion industry is undergoing a significant transformation driven by digitalization. This shift impacts how people shop and consume fashion, creating new trends and opportunities within the industry’s job market.

  • The Rise of E-Commerce and Digital Retail: The advent of e-commerce has revolutionized the fashion industry, leading to a surge in online shopping. As a result, there is a growing demand for professionals skilled in digital retail, including e-commerce managers, online merchandisers, and digital marketing specialists.

  • Social Media and Influencer Marketing: Social media platforms have become powerful tools for fashion brands to connect with their target audience. Influencer marketing has emerged as a dominant force, allowing brands to leverage the influence of popular personalities.

  • Data Analytics and Consumer Insights: With the abundance of data available, fashion companies are increasingly relying on data analytics to understand consumer behavior and drive business decisions. Roles such as data analysts, market researchers, and trend forecasters have become vital in providing valuable insights to fashion brands.

  • Sustainability and Ethical Fashion: The fashion industry is increasingly emphasizing sustainability and ethical practices. This shift has created opportunities for professionals dedicated to sustainable fashion supply chain management, responsible sourcing, and ethical brand consulting.

The digital era has brought forth exciting trends and opportunities within the fashion job market. As the industry evolves, our EB recruiters are here to guide aspiring talent through these transformations. With our extensive network, expertise, and commitment to connecting talent with fashion companies, we help individuals find their desired roles in the digital landscape and build successful career in the dynamic world of fashion.

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Now Hiring: Director of eCommerce

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Our client, a founder-led lifestyle brand, is looking for an experienced Director of eCommerce to bring their DTC business to the next level. Great opportunity to join the executive team of this rapidly growing brand in Charleston, SC. Click here to learn more and to apply.