Helen O'Connor

Development of colour concepts, development of collection themes, sourcing and selection of yarns, market research, development of knitwear fabrics and styles, 3D design and simulation of knitted fabrics using EAT Designscope Victor, technical drawings of knit and jersey styles using Adobe Illustrator, input and update of design-specific article specifications into PLM system, development of measurement tables and gradings, fittings, inspection and approval of prototypes and photo samples.

Design and manufacture of a 100% cashmere bespoke knitwear collection for babies and young children. Sales via my own online shop and selected boutiques across Germany and Austria.

Freelance designer for diverse projects including research & trend analysis within the fields of design and fashion, design and realisation of creative knitwear swatches, translation and creative texting within the fields of design and fashion. Clients included HUGO BOSS, Liganova, Corio Studio, Vidal Sassoon, Studio Vaar, Oltre Frontiera Progetti and RPRT.

Additional responsibilities as senior designer included sole responsibility for the design and sampling of all Far East beaded & embroidered knitwear styles, including regular production visits to China. Design & sampling of all knitwear for Escada Exclusives: the stand-alone groups developed for Neiman Marcus, Saks and Bergdorf Goodman. Participation in workshops with international sales to introduce the new collection and explain new yarns, silhouettes & knitwear techniques and justify price points.

Part of a team responsible for the design & development of a modern & luxurious women’s knitwear collection. Responsibilities included trend research for silhouettes, new yarns and hardware & fancy trimmings, development of innovative ideas for all areas of knitwear design incl. silhouette, structures, jacquards, intarsia, fully fashioning, crochet and embroideries, fashion drawings and technical sketches, garment fittings, styling and final preparation at fashion shows and photo shoots.

Specialist education focusing on the creative exploration of knitwear design; including fabric design & creation, and garment design & manufacture.