Design Director Job at Tillys in Irvine

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Overview

At Tillys , we’re a leading specialty retailer offering casual apparel, footwear, and accessories for young men, women, boys, and girls. Our extensive collection features iconic global brands, emerging labels, and proprietary lines, all rooted in an active and social lifestyle. Based in sunny Southern California, our Retail Support Center (RSC) is the heart of our corporate operations, dedicated to supporting both our retail and online stores. The RSC is where strategy meets execution. From trend forecasting to tech innovation, our teams work together to bring the Tillys experience to life — both in-store and online.

Position Summary

We’re looking for an experienced and visionary Design Director to lead Trend Forecasting, Technical Design, Design, and Product Development. This role is responsible for driving the creative direction of our product categories in alignment with market trends and business goals. The Design Director will work closely with cross-functional partners in Merchandising, Marketing, Visual Merchandising, and Styling to ensure a cohesive and innovative brand experience.

Key Responsibilities

Trend Forecasting and Market Research

• Lead seasonal trend forecasting and market analysis to produce design and trend direction.
• Translate cultural, consumer, and fashion trends into actionable insights for upcoming collections.
• Create and present mood boards, color palettes, and fabric direction.
• Stay ahead of emerging fashion and trade trends through regular market research and travel, ensuring a forward-thinking approach to design.
• Conduct competitive and consumer research to identify new product opportunities and ensure relevancy in a dynamic market.

Design and Product Development

Technical Design

Qualifications

Education & Experience

Work Environment & Physical Demands

Leadership & Team Development

As a leader at Tillys, you are expected to set the tone for your team through integrity, inclusion, and a solutions-oriented mindset. We look for individuals who lead by example, inspire collaboration, and consistently align team performance with company goals. Leaders are empowered to mentor talent, drive operational excellence, and cultivate a culture rooted in proactive collaboration, curiosity, accountability, and a growth mindset.

Tillys supports ongoing leadership development through hands-on learning, cross-functional exposure, and advancement opportunities tailored to individual growth paths.

Compensation

Annual Range : $185k-$210k

Final offer will be based on experience, skills, and qualifications.

What to Expect

Schedule : Full-time role with weekday office hours; occasional evening or weekend work may be required.

Work Location : Irvine, CA — minimum of 4 days per week in-office.

Why Join Tillys?

At Tillys, we thrive in a creative, collaborative, and high-energy environment where individuality is not just accepted — it’s celebrated. We foster a culture of inclusion, innovation, and recognition, where professional growth is supported, wins are celebrated, and having fun is part of the process. Join a team that values authenticity, teamwork, and always strives for excellence.

Equal Opportunity Employer & Fair Chance Hiring

Tillys is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Fair Chance Hiring : In compliance with California law, Tillys will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the California Fair Chance Act.

Other Considerations

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time, with or without notice. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to individuals with disabilities to enable them to perform essential job functions.

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