Karina Polenske

Assist senior design team in development of private label product to meet customer needs + current trends, while working within specific margins + retail costs.
Lead design in key categories including girls' dresses, boys' 8-20 + girls' 7-16 apparel.
Maintain calendar + tech packs throughout the season to track changes + ensure on-time delivery.
Communicate with overseas + domestic factories + agents.
Approve lab dips, knitdowns, strikeoffs + fit samples to improve product standards.
Participate in development meetings to present new product, artwork + color to buying teams + management.
Travel internationally with senior designer + buying team to meet with overseas vendors + place goods.
Create + maintain merchandising plans for use at store level.
Design layout, edit + write for corporate newsletter.

Designed exclusive print collections inspired by activewear trends + modern art
Approved strike-offs, colorways + hardgood submissions for quality
Completed a product redesign that resulted in a 465% increase in sales
Led a team of 5-6 employees to meet specific production goals
Maintained production calendar + raw goods inventory with cross functional teams + vendors
Worked with unconventional + innovative materials to maintain brand vision of product sustainability

Constructed garments for the Holly Stalder Bridal Line with draping, surface design, industrial + couture sewing techniques.
Produced a line of products sold in-house at HAUNT
Assisted customers with questions, custom orders + alterations
Coordinated event production + social media marketing

Completed design projects to guarantee a consistent guest experience
Focused on details to maintain a clear event vision
Provided support in vendor management
Maintained a comprehensive schedule + time table