Head of Accessories Design

Our Story

At Madewell, we believe that great style starts with great design. Since 2006, we’ve been creating premium denim and foundational wardrobe pieces for men and women that balance quality, authenticity, and versatility. From iconic jeans perfected by denim experts to the essential tee, the most versatile shoe, and the timeless leather bag—if it’s Madewell, it’s made well.

Our dedication to Diversity, Equity, Belonging & Sustainability has been celebrated with industry recognition, reflecting our commitment to fostering an inclusive and sustainable workplace.

The Role + Purpose:

As the VP of Accessories Design at Madewell, you will own the end-to-end creative vision and design strategy for the full accessories collection: footwear, handbags, jewelry, small leather goods and soft accessories- in its totality. Reporting to the Creative Director of Madewell and partnering closely with the Madewell Design leadership team, you will ensure accessories function as a defining pillar of the brand: cohesive with the apparel line, distinctly Madewell, and a meaningful driver of the business each season. This is an opportunity to lead with purpose, build and inspire a multi-category design organization, and shape an accessories portfolio that resonates with today’s customer.

• Define and lead the seasonal design strategy and creative execution for all Madewell accessories categories: footwear, handbags, jewelry, small leather goods and soft accessories; developing collections that are innovative, brand-right, and commercially relevant.
• Own the creative point of view for accessories in totality, ensuring all categories work as one cohesive collection with a unified material, color, and design language.
• Partner closely with the Madewell Design leadership team to ensure accessories complement and complete the full breadth of the Madewell assortment each season.
• Drive innovation by identifying opportunities for new silhouettes, materials, craftsmanship techniques, and brand-defining hero products that establish Madewell’s authority in the accessories space.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a multi-category team of designers- building the organization’s structure, talent, and succession- while cultivating a collaborative, inclusive environment that encourages creative risk-taking and professional development.
• Translate market trends, consumer insights, and business objectives into an elevated, forward-thinking design vision, serving as the executive voice for accessories in seasonal line reviews and brand planning.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Merchandising, Sourcing and Marketing- including vendor and development strategy across diverse supply chains- to ensure flawless product execution and the highest standards of design integrity from concept through delivery.

Qualifications:

Required:

• 15+ years of accessories design experience, with a demonstrated track record of success in a senior design leadership role within a fashion brand.
• Deep, hands-on expertise in at least two core accessories categories (footwear, handbags/leather goods, jewelry, or soft accessories), with a proven record of leading design across a full multi-category accessories portfolio.
• Proven ability to develop and articulate a compelling, forward-thinking creative vision that aligns with brand identity and drives meaningful business results.
• Advanced understanding of materials, construction methods, product development processes, and quality standards across accessories categories.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills at an executive level, with the ability to inspire teams and influence cross-functional partners.
• Strong illustration, presentation, and storytelling skills- proficiency in Illustrator, Photoshop, and Microsoft Office- with a portfolio showcasing successful collection launches that have positively impacted business outcomes.

Preferred:

• Deep appreciation for and understanding of the Madewell brand aesthetic and customer, with the ability to translate that understanding into a cohesive seasonal design vision.
• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Accessories Design, or a related field.

We welcome you to apply, even if you don’t check all the boxes. Our passion is scouting life-long learners who are driven by curiosity, and who feel connected to our brands and share our desire to make an impact. We’re always seeking bright new talent who leverage their unique experien…