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Handbag Jobs (NOW HIRING)

General Summary The Associate Handbag Designer is responsible for supporting the Design Director in developing seasonal handbag collections from concept through production. This position supports the ...

General Summary The Associate Handbag Designer is responsible for supporting the Design Director in developing seasonal handbag collections from concept through production. This position supports the ...

We are looking for a Freelance Handbag Designer for a top fashion brand in NYC * Start Date ASAP through August 27th * Mondays - Thursdays onsite * Pay rate: $46 Responsibilities: * Trend Research

Handbag Designer

New York, NY · Hybrid

$80K - $108K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity to join Reformation as Handbag Designer working with the Product Innovation Design team to shape the vision and future of the accessories business. This individual ...

Handbag Designer

New York, NY · Hybrid

$80K - $108K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity to join Reformation as Handbag Designer working with the Product Innovation Design team to shape the vision and future of the accessories business. This individual ...

Handbag Designer

New York, NY · On-site

$80K - $108K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity to join Reformation as Handbag Designer working with the Product Innovation Design team to shape the vision and future of the accessories business. This individual ...

Be Seen First

Visit location once a week, unpack and restock product and place out on handbag floor, check on markdowns, and communicate any needs of the area to management * Build and maintain product displays in ...

Create compelling and on-trend handbag designs from initial concept through to final production * Technical Documentation: Create detailed sketches, CADs, and comprehensive tech packs/spec sheets for ...

Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

The Handbag Designer is responsible for supporting the design and development of handbags and small leather goods from concept through commercialization. This role partners closely with Design ...

We are looking for a skilled handbag Associate Designer to work on our Steve Madden Handbag team! Major Responsibilities : * Fast and efficient knowledge in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop * Email ...

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How much do handbag jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for handbag in the United States is $19.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Handbag job?

A Handbag job typically refers to roles in the design, production, or sales of handbags and accessories. It can involve working as a designer, merchandiser, manufacturer, or retail associate in the fashion industry. Responsibilities may include creating new handbag designs, selecting materials, overseeing production, or marketing products to customers. The job may require creativity, fashion knowledge, and attention to detail, depending on the specific role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Handbag Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Handbag Designer, you need a strong background in fashion design, knowledge of materials, and proficiency in sketching and pattern-making, usually supported by a degree in fashion or accessory design. Familiarity with design software such as Adobe Illustrator, CAD systems, and experience with prototyping tools is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help designers stand out in this competitive field. These skills ensure innovative, high-quality products that meet both aesthetic standards and market demands.

What are some common challenges faced by handbag designers in the fashion industry?

Handbag designers often encounter challenges such as staying ahead of rapidly changing fashion trends, balancing creativity with commercial appeal, and sourcing high-quality materials within budget constraints. Additionally, they must collaborate closely with production and marketing teams to ensure their designs are both feasible to manufacture and marketable to target customers. Navigating tight deadlines, managing feedback from multiple stakeholders, and maintaining brand consistency are also typical aspects of the role.

What are handbags?

Handbags are personal accessories designed to carry everyday items such as wallets, keys, makeup, and other essentials. They come in a variety of styles, sizes, and materials, including leather, fabric, and synthetic options. Handbags can be functional, fashionable, or both, and are often used to complement an individual's outfit. They are popular among all genders but are most commonly associated with women's fashion. In addition to serving practical purposes, handbags can also be status symbols or collectible items.

What is the difference between Handbag vs Accessory Designer?

AspectHandbagAccessory Designer
Required CredentialsFashion design degree, knowledge of materialsFashion or accessory design degree, trend awareness
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, manufacturing facilitiesDesign studios, retail, freelance
Industry UsageFashion brands, luxury labelsFashion, jewelry, and accessory brands
Common Search IntentDesigning handbags, handbag careersAccessory design, fashion accessories

Handbag designers focus specifically on creating handbags, working with materials, styles, and functionality. Accessory designers have a broader scope, designing various fashion accessories including handbags, jewelry, and scarves. While both roles require fashion design skills and industry experience, handbag designers specialize in a niche product, whereas accessory designers work across multiple accessory categories.

What cities are hiring for Handbag jobs? Cities with the most Handbag job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Handbag jobs? The most popular types of Handbag jobs are:
What states have the most Handbag jobs? States with the most job openings for Handbag jobs include:
Associate Handbag Designer

Associate Handbag Designer

Steve Madden

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Steve Madden rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

General Summary
The Associate Handbag Designer is responsible for supporting the Design Director in developing seasonal handbag collections from concept through production. This position supports the Wholesale Handbags business.
The responsibilities described below are considered essential functions of the role. This position is based in our NYC office and requires working on-site.
Key Responsibilities
  • Partner closely with Design Director to develop seasonal handbag assortments for our Off Price Accounts.
  • Create and maintain professional presentation boards including sketches, materials, hardware, and construction details.
  • Support the design team through all stages of the design process along with all Handbag Accounts, staying aligned with the seasonal design calendar across all categories from Gifting to Slg's.
  • Produce detailed CAD drawings and renderings in Illustrator and Photoshop for client presentations and vendor communication and sampling.
  • Create, manage, and maintain spec sheets, ensuring accuracy and consistency across all development stages through production.
  • Organize and manage material, color, and hardware libraries; prepare samples and standards for Market and internal meetings.
  • Execute and maintain seasonal line lists, ensuring alignment with the product development calendar and key deadlines.
  • Collaborate with Technical Design & Design team to ensure accuracy of specifications from initial concept through technical design packages.
  • Participate in design reviews, and product walkthroughs with the Design Director or Senior Vice President.
  • Work cross-functionally with Production and Sales to maintain design intent throughout the development and production process.
  • Track development progress and proactively follow up on outstanding items to ensure timely execution.
  • Build and establish rapport with factories overseas to ensure timely development of Market Samples.
  • Able to manage multiple projects and deadlines with support and resources as needed
  • Perform other duties and special projects as assigned

Specific Job Skills:
Essential duties include
  • Ability to Multitask and shift gears quickly to new projects, while maintaining and following through current designs and presentations.
  • Must have experience working with both Leather and PVC materials.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design or related field
  • Minimum of 3-5 years of design experience, preferably in handbags or accessories
  • Strong aesthetic sensibility with a high level of creativity and attention to detail
  • Excellent presentation and visual communication skills
  • Strong illustration and sketching abilities (hand and digital)
  • Knowledge of handbag construction, materials, hardware, and trims
  • Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Proactive, detail-oriented, and able to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • Collaborative team player with strong follow-through
  • Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop; working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel

The expected base salary for this position ranges from $65,000 - $70,000. Ranges are based on various factors such as relevant skillset, training, years of experience related to the current job description, education, and our organizational structure. In addition to the base salary, Steve Madden offers a competitive benefits package that includes health and dental insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, 401K, paid holidays, a generous paid time-off policy, and career opportunities within a dynamic team.

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