Chelsea De Aguiar

My background in the apparel industry is expansive, well-connected and informed by a creative strength that has been enhanced through my applied international industry experience.

Over the last seven years my career has taken me to Europe, North and South America and across Asia. I have worked on trend directions and designs for
a multitude of independent stores, retailers and brands including Calvin Klein, Fila, Umbro, Champion Italy, Ellesse, Kappa and Robe Di Kappa Italy, Diadora Italy, Lotto Italy, Gaastra, MaxMacchina, Peek and Cloppenberg, Fussl and Primark to name but a few.

I am experienced in analysing latest trends and then driving the creative vision for innovative and advanced products to meet the needs of customers and at the same time driving profits and sales. During my time working at an international apparel sourcing company, I was entirely responsible for at least twenty-five different brand accounts simultaneously from concept through to final styling. As a result, I learned the need to shift priorities while managing multiple job assignments with competing deadlines. I am also well versed in the various complexities that may arise within this fast-paced industry.

As a senior designer, I specialize in the following product categories across women’s and menswear: lifestyle, active, running, athletics, sports, gym, athleisure, yoga, loungewear, streetwear, team merchandise, golf and accessories.

My diverse experience in these categories has prepared me to research and
design according to any brief including trend direction, mood boards, color palette building, basic graphic and print design, technical sketches, tech packing, visual presentations and fabric R&D and innovation. I also possess strong knowledge and understanding of manufacturing and production methods, color and quality approvals, construction, specs, fit, prints, fabric, materials and trims. My biggest strength is my good eye for detail and my persistence to perfect every project put in front of me. I thrive in a dynamic and detail-orientated position. In addition, I possess strong interpersonal skills and initiative, which contributes to my success in the workforce. I realize that as a lead designer that I am a part of a larger process and I love harmonizing with other departments to see a product through to completion. I have experience in managing +10 associate designers,
product developers and graphic designers. I have built up excellent industry relationships with over 200 suppliers and factories across the world and take it upon myself to ensure these are always nurtured and valued.

Recently my skills have expanded into Marketing within the apparel industry. I am currently also responsible for creatively directing and executing marketing initiatives for three different companies.

The breadth of my experiences internationally have taught me how to excel in a variety of work environments and I am seeking a position that has meaning and an opportunity for progress.