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I am a problem-solving enthusiast, fueled by the joy of collaboration and the thrill of bringing ideas to life. My passion for collaborative brainstorming and innovative ideation was first sparked during my 6th-grade Odyssey of the Mind team, where I was captivated by the process of evaluating ideas, building sets, and crafting solutions.

Today, with over a decade of experience as a product development and operations manager, I continue to be driven by the challenge of building solutions that solve complex problems and improve people's lives. My approach to building products is grounded in data-informed research, fueled by empathy and a deep curiosity to understand the "why" behind human intent, and always focused on delivering innovative solutions that drive real results.
 
I believe in the importance of community, communication, and a good sticky note. When not on land you can find me surfing out at Rockaway.

Skilled in: product strategy, product discovery, product roadmap planning, product development, user research planning, data analysis and synthesis, iterative ideation, cross-functional collaboration

- Revitalize brand image by updating logos, trims, and packaging
- Execute print designs for seasonal collections and advise regarding sourcing and color approval
- Create technical packs, establish fit guidelines, and oversees production communication with overseas agents
- Sketch and render CADs in Illustrator and Photoshop for technical packs and linesheets

Freelance Design Consultant - Mens & Womens

While at Waimea I helped change the design direction to better capture our trend-conscious customer. We simultaneously expanded the private label division, introduce two new product categories; hats and back packs, and began development on a womens line.

- Researched inspiration and trends for seasonal direction
- Assisted in the design development process by preparing technical packs, creating linesheets, reviewing and commenting on lab dip / strike off / trim submits
- Corresponded daily with our overseas agents via email regarding sample development status 
- Responsible for specing and initiating fittings
- Sketch and render flats in Photoshop and Illustrator

Associate Designer

While freelancing at Storelli I created and standardized their technical pack format and specing system and gained valuable knowledge in performance textiles. 

- Created and standardized tech packs
- Reviewed samples for execution and details
- Speced samples for fit and grade
- Sketched and rendered flats in Illustrator and Photoshop

Freelance / Consulting Technical Designer

Although brief, I found the challenges of design consulting greatly rewarding and I credit it to strengthening my research and branding skills. I enjoyed working closely with our clients to understand their ideas and then successfully execute that vision. At Thinctank we developed China-exclusive collections, set seasonal print trends, and designed a capsule outerwear collection for Primark.

- Researched and created concept boards for seasonal collections, fashion, and color trends
- Assisted with design and branding development for consulting projects 
- Oversaw development and execution of cut-and-sew knits, bottoms, and trims
- Corresponded via email with our overseas agents and factories regarding sample development and sourcing
- Traveled to Shanghai multiple times to meet with consulting client and merchandise their showroom for seasonal presentations and sales meetings.
- Updated and maintained website and fulfilled e-commerce sales
- Composed monthly marketing and promotional emails
- Responsible for styling and photographing products for e-commerce and marketing use

Assistant Designer / Consultant

I assumed full responsibility of three key categories from development to merchandising, (including every detail in-between). While at Lincs I also contributed to refreshing the brands' image by updating the trim designs as well as assist in the expansion of our denim division. 

- Oversaw development and execution of cut-n-sew knits, woven bottoms, denim, and trims 
- Corresponded daily with overseas agents and factories regarding sample development; design  and fit comments 
- Responsible for specing garments and assisted in fittings 
- Sketched and rendered flats in Illustrator and Photoshop
- Researched inspiration for each seasonal collection and created fashion and color trend boards 
- Responsible for analyzing lab dips 
- Supervised interns and insured they completed assigned tasks promptly and accurately

Design Assistant

Find out detailed information about Vanella Richardson, Independant Contractor in Brooklyn, NY

Vanella Richardson: Independant Contractor in Brooklyn, NY

Vanella Richardson