Karolina Zabawa

Worked with the Design Team as a Freelance Assistant Designer leading up to the Fall 2017 show during New York Fashion Week. Duties included but were not limited to flat sketches in Illustrator, fitting models and helping select footwear for the Fall 2017 show, assisting the atelier with last minute alterations, and preparing models for the runway backstage.

Assists Design and Production Teams from development through production; starting with design and development research which comprises of sourcing and developing trims and fabrics, researching trends for upcoming collections, generating stitch samples, as well as testing fabric shrinkage and compatibility with interfacing. Other integral responsibilities include updating design boards, making cut tickets, instructing factories with sewing details, checking patterns, and assisting with fittings.

Gained hands on experience at an international luxury fashion brand performing alterations on client gowns; including hand sewing, beading and working with fine silk lace. Responsibilities included maintaining workroom and work-station in an organized manner while working in a timely fashion to complete alterations according to exacting standards and deadlines.

Assisted Design Team from development through production; tasks included sourcing fabric and trim, editing and organizing fit photographs using Adobe Photoshop, creating beading and embroidery samples and layouts, developing stitch samples, and generating technical designs emphasizing garment construction using Adobe Illustrator. Other essential responsibilities included updating and organizing inspiration/concept boards, helping set up and update sketches & tech packs digitally for development, and creating color storyboards based on designers' inspirations. Provided support during Fashion Week and Market Week by preparing models for the runway backstage and in the showroom. Also worked with Knitwear designer from design through development.