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?
Fashion Week 2025: The Trends, The Brands, and The Career Opportunities
New York Fashion Week is back, bringing fresh collections, bold statements, and exciting opportunities for both brands and job seekers alike. From innovative designs hitting the runway to the behind-the-scenes roles that keep the industry moving, there’s more to Fashion Week than just the clothes—it’s a hub for talent and creativity.
This season, designers are leaning into craftsmanship and sustainability, with collections that blend timeless elegance with modern innovation. Expect to see intricate details, unexpected textures, and a continued push towards ethical fashion. Emerging designers are making waves alongside legacy brands, proving that Fashion Week remains a launchpad for new talent.
Several of our clients are debuting collections, marking milestones in their journeys. Alice + Olivia, Badgley Mischka, LVMH, and Derek Lam 10 Crosby are among the standout names showcasing their latest designs. These showcases aren’t just about making a statement on the runway—they're also opportunities for professionals in fashion to connect, collaborate, and carve out their place in the industry. Brands to watch this season include those embracing tech-driven fashion, adaptive design, and boundary-pushing aesthetics.
Beyond the spectacle, Fashion Week fuels industry employment. From stylists and production teams to PR specialists and buyers, the event creates roles for those looking to break into the business. Candidates interested in fashion careers can tap into these opportunities by networking at events, following up with brands post-show, and staying engaged with industry trends. Whether looking for freelance gigs or long-term positions, Fashion Week is the perfect moment to make those career-defining connections.
At Emerging Blue, we specialize in connecting top talent with some of the most prominent brands in fashion, home, and beauty. Whether you’re a candidate looking for your next opportunity or a brand in need of skilled professionals, we’re here to help. Let’s connect!
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Hiring Freelance Designers in NYC!
Calling freelance designers in NYC! Our client is hiring talented freelancers at both Designer & Senior Designer levels for a 3-4 month long project. Denim + Athletic experience is a plus. Hourly $40-50.
Now Hiring: Store Manager
Exciting retail leadership opportunity with a growing lifestyle apparel brand in NYC! Interested? Apply today.
$100-120K
Now Hiring: Design Director, Outerwear
NYC: Exciting new opportunity to join our client’s team as Design Director of Outerwear. We’re looking for someone with 10+ years of experience in the fashion industry. Knowledge of childrenswear is a must. Salary: $125-175K.
Now Hiring: Associate Designer
Our client, a women’s swim and lifestyle brand, is looking for an Associate Designer to join their team and focus on their knits and soft wovens business. Working alongside the Design Director and cross functionally with tech and production, this is an exciting opportunity to grow with a team in a fast-paced and lively environment. Salary: $75-85K. Apply today!
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year! We have a feeling 2025 will be the best yet…If you’re hiring or looking for a new opportunity in the new year, connect with us!
Now Hiring: Senior Account Executive (C+S / Wovens)
We are looking for a seasoned Sr. Account Executive who has experience in women's cut + sew, wovens apparel, and maintains established relationships with retailers and off-price channels. Based in NYC and Salary Range is $120-130K
Now Hiring: VP of Merchandising
Our Bay-area based client is hiring a VP of Merchandising to join their leadership team to drive product strategy and brand growth! Interested? Salary: $200-300K
Now Hiring: Senior Denim Designer
Our client, a denim brand based in NYC, is on the lookout for a highly creative Senior Denim Designer to develop best in class commercially sale-able core and fashion product. Salary: $90-120K. Interested? Apply today.