Dune London is the leading affordable luxury footwear and accessories brand in the UK, with broad distribution across both the UK and internationally. It has 50 stores in the UK and over 100 in 25 countries around the world. The company is entering a period of sustained growth both through expansion of sales on its online channels and through third party partners both in the UK and globally. Celebrating over 30 years in the industry, the Dune group has  built an enviable position as the specialist in quality fashion footwear and accessories which has given it a unique position at the high end of the high street.

The role of Accessories Design Assistant

Kick-start your career in fashion with an exciting opportunity to join the Dune London design team! This is a fantastic role for a creative, ambitious, detail-driven graduate with a strong creative flair and a desire to grow within a fast-paced fashion environment to break into the world of accessories design.

As a Design Assistant, you’ll support the creation of our women’s accessories collections across handbags, lifestyle products, and small leather goods. Working closely with the Design Manager, you’ll help bring ideas to life and contribute to trend-led, commercially successful ranges that reflect the Dune London brand.

Responsibilities of the Accessories Design Assistant:

• Trend Research: Stay ahead of the curve by monitoring fashion, market, and consumer trends, including social media and influencers, translating insights into fresh and relevant design ideas.
• Concept Development: Support the creation of seasonal concepts, including the development of innovative designs and hardware trims.
• Sketching & Technical Drawing: Bring ideas to life through detailed hand sketches and CAD drawings using design software such as Adobe Illustrator.
• Material & Colour Selection: Research and source materials, trims, hardware, colours, and finishes that align with the Dune London aesthetic and elevate the product offering.
• Sample Development Support: Assist in preparing design specifications and support the development of prototypes and samples through to final approval.
• Design Documentation: Maintain accurate tech packs and clear design specifications, and liaise with suppliers to track and manage sample progress.
• Presentation Preparation: Contribute to the creation of inspiring mood boards and design presentations for internal reviews and key seasonal meetings.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with the footwear team and wider business to ensure alignment across seasonal collections.
• Brand Alignment: Demonstrate a passion for product, fashion, and accessories, with a strong understanding of the Dune London customer and brand identity.

What Dune is looking for:

• Degree in Fashion or Accessories Design (or equivalent), with openness to exceptional graduates with a strong portfolio
• Proven ability in sketching, CAD design, and creating technical specifications
• Understanding of product development processes, including sampling and prototypes
• Strong creative vision with commercial awareness and a good understanding of fashion and social media trends
• Knowledge of materials, trims, hardware, and manufacturing techniques for accessories
• High attention to detail with the ability to produce accurate tech packs and maintain quality standards
• Confident communicator with strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple deadlines
• Proficiency in Illustrator and familiarity with AI-led design/trend tools
• A highly creative mindset with excellent attention to detail
• A good understanding of fashion trends and the accessories market
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• A proactive attitude with a willingness to learn and develop

Dune Perks include:

• Blended working – spreading your time across our office and remote working
• Sustainable office in bustling West London (near Westfield)
• Friendly and open culture with flat structures allowing plenty of opportunity for development.
• Company growth and opportunity; Dune is evolving all the time
• Open-minded company, welcoming thoughts and ideas to be shared
• Working with charitable organisations to help raise funds and give something back. Our current charity partner is Mental Health UK.
• 60% employee discount on Dune products – what’s not to love!
• 25 days holiday (plus the bank holidays)
• Cycle2work
• Company pension scheme
• Life assurance for all team members
• We look after our people
• 3.00 p.m. finish every pay day Friday!
• Team socials and drinks – we like to have fun!
• Access to our employee assistance programme, retailTRUST, who provide loads of resources to support with wellbeing and personal development offer free counselling legal advice and financial guidance.
• Our own Wellbeing Allies – there to talk when you need them.