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Design Director | Fashion Designer & Illustrator

Fashion & Apparel

SHEIN X Maalavidaa

Specialty collaboration collection with Artist Maalavidaa for SHEIN X. All graphics were provided by the artist and exclusive to this Summer Collection 2024.

SHEIN X GAWX II

Specialty collaboration collection with Artist Gawx for SHEIN X. All graphics were provided by the Artist and exclusive to this Summer Collection 2024.

SHEIN X SRIRACHA

Specialty collaboration collection with SRIRACHA for SHEIN X. All graphics were developed in collaboration with SRIRACHA and 7 Talented Asian Artists reinterpreting the iconic hot sauce in their own unique style of artwork. All artwork was exclusive to this Collection in celebration of AAPI month in May 2024.

SHEIN TQMX 2024

Specialty Collaboration Collection with 4 Talented Mexican Artist for SHEIN X TQMX 2024. All graphics are exclusive to this Collection in celebration of the beauty and spirit of Mexico.

With a distinguished career spanning over 15 years in the fashion industry, I bring a unique combination of creative vision and practical leadership to the table. My expertise in contemporary design, coupled with my ability to deliver versatile solutions, has consistently driven business growth through expert forecasting and trend analysis in apparel design. As a seasoned director-level professional, I have established strong relationships over the years with key players in the industry, including major international companies such as Target, SHEIN, FYE Transworld, Thinkgeek, GameStop, Zumiez, Urban Outfitters, and various specialty accounts. My in-depth understanding of managing relationships with factories and vendors ensures successful production and launch of finished apparel products.
In addition, over the years I’ve specialized in both non-licensed and licensed goods, including brands such as Disney, Pokemon, Marvel, Star Wars, and Nickelodeon. With my extensive experience and unparalleled skill set, I am fully equipped to drive results and ensure the success of any corporation, from concept to finished product.

Acted as Creative Director overseeing design submissions in order to improve quality of artwork and design by providing creative direction as well as feedback to all Artists in the program.
Demonstrated expertise in designing innovative collections in order to elevate design quality for Specialty Artist Collaborations such as SHEIN X GAWX SS24, SHEIN X Maalavidaa SS24, and SHEIN X Coolman AW24 - all to be released this year in 2024. 
Successfully designed a wide range of apparel collections for SHEIN X Hispanic Heritage Month  launched in 2023, SHEIN Loves Mexico 2024, as well as licensed goods with brands such as SRIRACHA highlighting artwork from our SHEIN X Artists for AAIP Month in May 2024.
Oversaw sampling process on numerous collections by advising solutions to QC issues, alongside to providing detailed feedback in order to improve quality and fit on all designs for production.
Researched various graphic design & fashion trends relevant in today’s market for trend analysis and  forecasting; developing detailed moodboards for future product and collection development for the SHEIN X Program.
Excelled in managing the approvals of all royalty based design submissions though SHEIN X Artists DXDesign portal. Reviewing and analyzing each submission to ensure prevention of infringement.

SHEIN X Senior Product Developer

SHEIN X Digital Product Developer

Led and oversaw all design and production of TARGET’s Private Label - Art Class Account, resulting in consistent delivery of over 15,000-20,000 units per quarter. Demonstrated expertise in effectively managing the entire process from conceptualization to final production. Excelled in maintaining seamless communication with overseas factories, as well as streamlined the entire approval process on all submits leading to a 75% increase in timely production on collections each season. Led collaborated garment fittings with the pattern team developing over 8+ new innovative silhouettes each season. Directed new innovative development of licensed goods to elevate brands such as Disney, Pokémon, Marvel, Star Wars, Coca-Cola, Nickelodeon, and many more.

Design Director of Private Label

Developed and launched top-tier licensed collaboration collections for companies such as FYE Transworld, Thinkgeek, GameStop, Zumiez, and various specialty accounts in the wholesale market - increasing sales by 35% each quarter. Facilitated comprehensive market research to elevate existing brands, utilizing insights to drive new body development for multiple curated collections. Led successful garment fittings through close collaboration with the pattern team developing over 6 new silhouettes each season. Demonstrated ability to work independently and effectively managing over 50+ complex projects for numerous accounts with limited supervision.

Men's & Junior's Designer / Apparel Merchandiser

Curated over 50+ compelling presentations tailored to the needs of companies such as FYE Transworld, Urban Outfitters, Thinkgeek, Rue21, and various specialty accounts. Adept at utilizing insights from market research and trend analysis for accurate forecasting and informed decision-making. Proficient in overseeing the production process, experienced in reviewing and approving all strike-offs, lab dips, fabric sourcing, and cost negotiation for various 12,000 unit programs. Demonstrated collaborative skills in close work with pattern makers to develop 10+ new garments for each season. Facilitated effective communication with sample coordinators to produce top-quality sample garments for specialty accounts.

Men's Designer / Apparel Merchandiser

Skilled in effectively manage multiple reports simultaneously related to inventory, purchase orders, and shortages for manufacturing company that specialized in Intimate Apparel, Swimwear, and Activewear.
Managed and supervised office of 3+ employees, as well as trained all new hire employees. Excelled in maintaining efficient communication with both foreign and domestic suppliers, effectively issuing purchase orders and managing shipments to meeting 100% of all deadlines. Demonstrated attention to detail and quality control through responsibility of lab dip color inspection and approvals - ensuring timely production of apparel goods. Confident in ability to effectively manage the supply chain and ensure smooth operations.

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Find out detailed information about Crystal Vargas, Design Director | Fashion Designer & Illustrator in Los Angeles Metropolitan Area

Crystal Vargas: Design Director | Fashion Designer & Illustrator in Los Angeles Metropolitan Area

Crystal Vargas