Modéliste Lectra

OBJECTIVE

This role is a creative and technical position in the Zimmermann design team working closely with the Design Team on all clothing categories for on-time seasonal store launches. The position works collaboratively with the designers to develop Zimmermann clothing according to seasonal company range plans and is responsible for the creation of accurate patterns in line with the designer's vision and according to seasonal design and production schedules. Our pattern makers are expected to always uphold the consistent quality standards of Zimmermann.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Pattern making

• Making patterns for seasonal collections on the Lectra system via original drawings, draping and mock-ups or from Zimmermann's existing library of patterns as directed by the senior design team.
• Participation in fittings and maintaining notes on all alterations with support from the Atelier Assistant.
• Perform pattern alterations promptly and accurately after fitting.
• Maintain an accurate history of all garment alterations and comments for reference in PLM (C8).
• Perform final production fittings under supervision of designers.
• Create garment specification sheets in PLM with relevant information for production – ensure all specification sheets are accurate including accessories, trim, yields, and maker instructions.
• Develop style that are considerate of yield and price point whilst not compromising on design.

Sampling

• Work with in-house cutters and sample machinists to achieve best quality make and most cost-effective method of garment construction.
• Ensure final constructions are suitable for mass production.
• Produce sample markers for cutting as required.
• Consult in-house makers and factories on ways to improve make techniques.
• Responsible for finalizing accurate BOM for each style in PLM ahead of SMS stage and updating information at each stage of the production process thereafter.
• Development of Runway patterns and samples in accordance with the show direction by the Creative Director and design team.
• Revert any show patterns back to production proportion standards e.g. lengths and sizing.
• Show fittings when required on show models, and alterations clearly communicated to machinists for Runway presentations.

Artwork

• Regularly update textile, print and surface design team with any changes to pattern for styles that have placement artwork, nested blocks or specific cutting instructions.
• Check final markers for factory instructions on all styles with placement cut at all stages: SMS, PPS and final graded markers.
• Prioritise all patterns that go through the textiles team for optimal workflow within the design department.

Grading, Yields and Markers

• Pattern make all styles on Lectra system.
• Finalise all patterns on time in line with production schedules.
• Create costing markers and record accurate yields for sampling and bulk production.
• Ensure all patterns passed for grading are complete and correct.

Production

• Prepare sample and specification packs to produce PPS and Bulk.
• Review samples and follow correct procedures to ensure QA and Production teams are informed clearly on any changes from SMS to PPS, and if required alerting key stakeholders on any changes from PPS to Bulk.
• Responsible for notifying all relevant parties of any change to PLM (design and production).

Teamwork & Administration

• Adhere to design room schedule and timelines.
• Work with design team to achieve sample range completion date.
• Keep room organized and reasonably tidy at all times.
• Work with Atelier Assistant to ensure adequate stock levels of pattern making consumables (plotter paper, safety pins etc…)
• Support and mentor junior staff, build positive relationships with all Atelier, Design and Development team members to enhance a healthy design team culture.
• Maintain back up procedures in all work.

SKILLS & SPECIFICATIONS

• Previous experience with Lectra pattern making – essential.
• 10+ years' experience in womenswear pattern making.
• Strong eye for detail and accuracy with a thorough understanding of draping and complex garment construction.
• Continually up-to-date knowledge of luxury garment finishes.
• Be computer literate in Outlook (essential) and a knowledge of fashion production software such as PLM (essential).
• Enjoy the challenge of working with original luxury fashion garments.