Freelance Graphic Designer – Apparel Design

Freelance Graphic Designer – Apparel DesignAbout Chicka-d Chicka-d is a women’s lifestyle apparel brand known for creating trend-driven, collegiate-inspired pieces that feel fresh, feminine, and wearable. Our designs blend fashion, comfort, and brand storytelling, with a strong focus on licensed and non-licensed apparel. Role Overview We are seeking an exceptional Freelance Graphic Designer / Illustrator with deep experience in apparel graphics to help elevate Chicka-d to the next level in the market. This role is for a true artist—someone who can concept, illustrate, and execute compelling original artwork that strengthens our brand position and outperforms the competition. This role is strictly focused on apparel artwork, including original illustrations, placement graphics, repeats, embellishments, and production-ready files. It does not include social media, digital ads, or marketing assets. The ideal candidate has a strong artistic foundation and can freehand draw quickly and efficiently, then translate those illustrations into polished, production-ready graphic design files. You will be responsible for creating artwork that can be adapted and “flipped” across multiple schools while maintaining originality, consistency, and brand integrity. You must have a strong understanding of the apparel marketplace and be able to analyze where Chicka-d currently sits, identify opportunities, and create designs that raise the bar and beat competitors. This role requires both creative instinct and strategic thinking. You will collaborate closely with our design team to translate seasonal concepts, trends, and brand direction into standout apparel graphics that feel elevated, intentional, and market-leading. • Design original, illustration-driven graphics specifically for apparel applications (tees, fleece, tanks, etc.) • Create artwork across multiple decoration and embellishment techniques, including screen print, embroidery, appliqué, and specialty finishes • Develop compelling placement graphics that elevate Chicka-d’s brand aesthetic and stand out in the competitive collegiate apparel market • Translate hand-drawn or illustrated concepts into clean, production-ready graphic files optimized for apparel manufacturing • Prepare and deliver production-ready files in accordance with factory, print, and licensing specifications (when applicable) • Revise and refine artwork based on internal creative feedback, licensing requirements, and market needs • Ensure all designs align with Chicka-d’s brand guidelines, current trends, and target customer preferences—while pushing the brand forward • Manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and maintain clear, proactive communication throughout the design process Qualifications • Proven experience as an apparel graphic designer, with fashion and/or licensed apparel experience strongly preferred • A strong portfolio showcasing illustration-led, apparel-specific work (production graphics, placements, embellishments—not marketing or social media assets) • High proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop; ability to translate hand-drawn artwork into clean, production-ready files (Canva experience a plus, but not a substitute for core design skills) • Solid understanding of garment construction, print placement, embellishment techniques, and apparel production requirements • Ability to interpret and adapt to multiple design directions, seasonal trends, and school-specific brand guidelines • Strong attention to detail, organization, and file management in a production-driven environment • Reliable, responsive, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, collaborative, deadline-oriented setting Nice to Have • Experience with licensed brands or collegiate apparel • Knowledge of fabric types and how graphics translate across different materials • Familiarity with factory workflows and overseas production Kindly Submit your: • Portfolio with relevant work • Resume Job Type: Temporary Application Question(s): • Have you created original illustrations or graphics specifically intended for apparel (e.g., prints, patterns, or garment graphics)? • How many years of professional experience do you have as an artist and/or illustrator (not including school or internships)? • This role requires an artist/illustrator who personally creates original drawings or illustrations and then develops them into finished graphic designs. Does this describe your experience? Work Location: Remote Apply tot his job Apply To this Job