Plus Size Fashion Designer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of fashion, the focus on plus size fashion designers is increasingly prominent.

As society progresses towards body positivity and inclusivity, the demand for talented designers who can conceptualize, create, and champion plus size fashion is escalating.

But let’s get down to the details: What’s really expected from a plus size fashion designer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to outline the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the dynamics of plus size fashion design,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable plus size fashion designer job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Plus Size Fashion Designer Duties and Responsibilities

Plus Size Fashion Designers use their expertise in fashion and design to create apparel that is stylish, comfortable, and flattering for plus-sized individuals.

They need to understand the unique style needs and body shapes of larger individuals and create designs that celebrate all body types.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Understanding the fashion needs and preferences of plus-sized individuals
• Sketching initial design ideas and creating detailed technical drawings, either by hand or using computer software
• Designing a variety of apparel including casual wear, formal wear, and specialty wear such as swimwear or activewear
• Choosing suitable fabrics, colors, and patterns for each garment
• Working with pattern makers and tailors to ensure the designs fit well on a plus-sized body
• Testing different types of material and assessing their durability, comfort, and appearance on a plus-sized model
• Keeping up to date with current fashion trends, predicting future trends, and incorporating them into designs for plus-sized clothing
• Collaborating with sales and marketing teams to develop branding and promotional strategies for the fashion line
• Ensuring that the final product reflects the desired design and fits correctly on plus-sized bodies

 

Plus Size Fashion Designer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a creative and innovative Plus Size Fashion Designer to join our team.

Your role will be pivotal in designing stylish, comfortable and flattering clothing for plus-size individuals.

The Plus Size Fashion Designer will be responsible for creating sketches, selecting fabrics, and patterns, and giving instructions on how to make the products they design.

Your designs should cater to our target market’s tastes and preferences while considering comfort, style, and fit.

Our ideal candidate understands the unique needs and challenges of plus-size fashion design and can deliver designs that not only look good but also enhance our customers’ confidence and self-esteem.

 

Responsibilities

• Creating and visualizing an idea and producing a design by hand or using computer-aided design (CAD)
• Keeping up to date with emerging fashion trends as well as general trends related to fabrics, colors, and shapes
• Planning and developing ranges, often based on a theme
• Working with others in the design team, such as buyers and forecasters, to develop products to meet a brief
• Sourcing, selecting and buying fabrics, trims, fastenings, and embellishments
• Adapting existing designs for mass production
• Ensuring that the final product reflects the mood board and design concepts
• Working closely with the production team to ensure that designs are accurately brought to life

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a fashion designer, preferably in plus-size fashion
• Strong portfolio showcasing original creative designs
• Proficiency in fashion design software and technologies (CAD, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, etc.)
• Excellent understanding of garment designing, construction, and styling for the plus-size market
• Strong knowledge of textiles, fabrics, and fashion trends
• Superb visual and artistic skills
• BSc degree in Fashion Design or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Plus Size Fashion Designer
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for fashion events or sourcing materials.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Fashion Designer or Creative Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $100,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, portfolio, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Plus Size Fashion Designer Do?

A Plus Size Fashion Designer specializes in creating clothing for plus-size individuals.

This requires an understanding of different body types and sizes, as well as a keen eye for design and trends.

Their role may involve sketching out designs, choosing fabrics and patterns, and tailoring clothes to fit plus-size figures.

They work closely with pattern makers, seamstresses, and other team members to bring their designs to life.

Plus Size Fashion Designers have the task of creating fashionable, comfortable, and flattering clothing for plus-size individuals.

This often involves addressing unique fit and design challenges to enhance the natural beauty of fuller figures.

They also conduct fittings and make alterations, ensuring every garment fits the model or client perfectly.

In addition to creating clothing, they might also be involved in marketing and promoting their designs, attending fashion shows, or meeting with retail buyers.

Above all, a Plus Size Fashion Designer aims to promote body positivity and inclusivity in the fashion industry.

They are advocates for size diversity, working to break stereotypes and contribute to the evolution of fashion norms.

 

Plus Size Fashion Designer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Plus Size Fashion Designer should have skills and qualifications that align with the particular requirements and expectations of this speciality, including:

• Excellent understanding of the plus size fashion market, with knowledge of the different body shapes and sizes, and how to design clothing that flatters and fits these forms.
• Creativity and a strong sense of style, to create innovative and appealing designs for the plus size market.
• Technical knowledge in garment technology and fashion designing, to handle everything from sketching designs to choosing fabrics and ensuring perfect fit.
• Proficient in using software like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop for designing, sketching and other technical aspects.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, to convey design ideas clearly to clients, team members, and manufacturers.
• Interpersonal skills to understand client needs and preferences, and to work effectively within a team.
• Attention to detail and quality, to ensure every garment is up to high standards and is both functional and fashionable.
• Problem-solving skills to overcome design challenges and produce effective solutions.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines while maintaining a high standard of work.

 

Plus Size Fashion Designer Experience Requirements

Entry-level Plus Size Fashion Designers typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in fashion design or a related field.

During their studies, they may gain experience through internships or part-time roles in fashion houses, design studios, or related retail outlets.

For their initial experience, they would ideally be involved in designing plus-size clothing, understanding the unique fit and styling needs of larger body types, and getting comfortable with fabric selection, pattern drafting, and garment construction for plus sizes.

Candidates with 2 to 3 years of experience often progress from assisting senior designers to managing their own design projects.

This experience could come from working in fashion design houses, retail brands specializing in plus-size clothing, or independent design studios.

Designers with more than 5 years of experience in plus-size fashion designing are often expected to have developed their own unique style, demonstrated a solid understanding of the plus-size market, and have a track record of successful design collections.

At this level, they may be eligible for senior designer roles or creative director positions, where they would oversee the entire design process from conception to production.

In addition to their design experience, Plus Size Fashion Designers should ideally have experience in using design software, staying updated on current fashion trends, and understanding the business aspects of the fashion industry.

 

Plus Size Fashion Designer Education and Training Requirements

Plus Size Fashion Designers typically require a bachelor’s degree in fashion design or related fields such as visual arts, fine arts or graphic design.

They should have strong skills in sketching, sewing, and pattern making, with an understanding of fabric and textiles, and a keen eye for color and detail.

A familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software is often required as well.

Some designers may also choose to specialize further by obtaining a master’s degree in fashion design or a related field, which provides more in-depth study and could lead to more senior positions.

To become successful in Plus Size Fashion Design, it is essential to understand the specific needs and proportions of plus-size bodies.

This includes knowledge of how to design clothing that is not only stylish and trendy, but also comfortable and flattering for fuller figures.

Designers often start their careers with internships or entry-level positions in fashion houses or design studios, gaining practical experience and learning about the industry firsthand.

Workshops, short courses, or certifications in plus size fashion design or related areas, such as plus size tailoring or pattern making, can also be advantageous and demonstrate commitment to the niche.

Continued learning and staying updated with the latest trends and techniques in the plus size fashion industry is necessary for career growth and success.

 

Plus Size Fashion Designer Salary Expectations

A Plus Size Fashion Designer earns an average salary of $64,531 (USD) per year.

However, the earnings can vary depending on the individual’s level of experience, the company they work for, and the location of their job.

 

Plus Size Fashion Designer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Plus Size Fashion Designer need?

Plus Size Fashion Designers require a keen understanding of fashion trends, textile materials, and pattern-making.

They need to be innovative, with the ability to create stylish, flattering designs for larger bodies.

Critical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to visualize ideas are important.

Strong sketching abilities and proficiency in design software can also be beneficial.

 

Do Plus Size Fashion Designers need a degree?

While not always mandatory, many Plus Size Fashion Designers hold a bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design or a related field.

These programs often provide critical knowledge about textiles, color theory, and garment construction.

Experience through internships or apprenticeships can also be beneficial.

Some designers may also take courses focusing on plus-size design and body positivity.

 

What should you look for in a Plus Size Fashion Designer’s portfolio?

A Plus Size Fashion Designer’s portfolio should showcase their ability to create fashionable, flattering designs for plus-size individuals.

Look for a variety of styles and materials, as well as innovative and unique designs.

Sketches, digital renderings, and photographs of finished garments can all provide insight into the designer’s abilities.

 

What qualities make a good Plus Size Fashion Designer?

A good Plus Size Fashion Designer is creative, innovative, and has a keen eye for detail.

They understand the unique challenges and opportunities in designing for plus-size bodies, and are passionate about creating flattering, stylish designs.

Good communication skills are also crucial, as they must effectively collaborate with clients, manufacturers, and other team members.

 

What are the challenges in Plus Size Fashion Design?

Designing for plus-size bodies involves unique challenges, such as a wider range of body shapes and proportions to account for.

Designers must be skilled at creating flattering, comfortable fits, and need to understand how to adjust patterns and designs to accommodate larger sizes.

They may also face challenges in sourcing high-quality, stylish fabrics and materials that are suited to plus-size garments.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we have unraveled the true essence of being a plus size fashion designer.

Surprise?

It’s not just about sketching designs.

It’s about shaping the fashion industry, one plus size design at a time.

With our comprehensive plus size fashion designer job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make a move.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise job listings or fine-tuning your portfolio to perfection.

Remember:

Every plus size design is a part of the grand fashion tapestry.

Let’s redefine beauty standards. Together.