Michael Rivera
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About
I am a seasoned Apparel & Accessories Designer with over a decade of experience creating innovative, market-leading designs across active lifestyle, outdoor, and performance apparel. My work is driven by a passion for craftsmanship and quality—a commitment that is reflected in every piece I design. I blend traditional design principles with modern technical expertise, employing advanced CAD, tech pack creation, and digital rendering tools to translate creative briefs into production-ready, commercially successful products.
Throughout my career, I have collaborated with top-tier brands and diverse teams to push the boundaries of design, whether developing intricate small leather goods, technical outerwear, or dynamic athletic collections. My design philosophy centers on attention to detail, functional aesthetics, and a deep understanding of consumer needs. I am committed to continually evolving my craft and aspire to lead design initiatives that elevate brand identity while delivering exceptional quality and performance.
I am now seeking opportunities to contribute my expertise to forward-thinking organizations where innovation, quality, and a dedication to true craftsmanship are at the forefront of their design culture.
Technical & Design Skills:
Software: Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, PLM, Microsoft Office
Design: Technical Sketching, CAD Development, Digital Rendering, BOM Creation, Material Sourcing
Product Development: Tech Pack Creation, Factory Communication, Fit Reviews, Production Oversight
Apparel & Accessory Expertise:
Men's and Women's Activewear, Outerwear, Sportswear, Lifestyle Apparel, Hosiery
Small Leather goods: belts, wallets, keychains etc.
Cold weather accessories: gloves (leather, knit), hats, scarves
Soft Accessories, Pattern-Making, Trim Development -
Education
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Associate of Science Fashion DesignArt Institute of Fort Lauderdale
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Experience
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Lead Style AdvisorIndochinoAustin, TXSep 2024 - Present (7 months)Conduct personalized consultations to design custom suits that aligns with each client's unique style and fit.
Execute precise measurements to ensure flawless tailoring.
Advise clients on current fabric collections and material options.
Guide clients through step-by-step customization process, building long-term relationships through exceptional service. -
Freelance Apparel DesignerMichael Rivera DesignsApr 2019 - Present (6 years)Partner with clients to bring their vision to life, conducting in-depth consultations to translate ideas into innovative, trend-driven designs.
Develop comprehensive technical packages, including detailed sketches, spec sheets, and fabric selections, ensuring seamless communication with manufacturers.
Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, meeting strict deadlines while maintaining a high standard of creativity and precision.
Create design presentations that effectively communicate concepts, color stories, and fabric selections to clients.
Specialize in apparel, activewear, accessories and outerwear, with a strong focus on material selection and functional design.
Designed performance-driven golf apparel, focusing on functionality, moisture-wicking fabrics and ergonomic fit for enhanced mobility. -
Senior DesignerNew York, NYJul 2016 - Apr 2021 (4 years 9 months)Led seasonal design collections for men's and women's activewear, outerwear, sportswear, hosiery lounge-wear, cold-weather accessories and small leather goods across multiple brands and private labels.
Designed for prominent brands including Sperry, BCBGeneration, BCBGMaxazria, Lane Bryant, RealTree, Urban Outfitters, Work N Gear, Walmart.
Conducted trend research and market analysis to align designs with evolving consumer preferences.
Spearheaded trend research and market analysis, ensuring that designs aligned with evolving consumer preferences and industry movements.
Developed detailed tech packs and coordinated with cross-functional teams (merchandising, product development, overseas factories) to ensure seamless production. -
Associate DesignerNew York, NYMar 2013 - Jan 2014 (10 months)Designed products for private label lines and licensed brands including Alexander Julian, Ramson & Bond, Journey's, Foot Locker and Urban Outfitters.
Led design research, material sourcing, and trend forecasting for hosiery, cold-weather accessories and leather goods.
Created detailed tech packs and collaborated closely with production teams to maintain design integrity. -
Assistant Designer, FreelanceAccessory ExchangeNew York, NYJan 2013 - Mar 2013 (2 months)Assisted the design team with concepts, presentation, illustration and graphics.
Assisted the Design Director with merchandising for product line review.
Categories: Hosiery (leggings, socks) Cold-weather accessories (Knits/wowen) -
Assistant Designer, FreelanceM&J Trimming, New York, NYCNew York, NYAug 2012 - Nov 2012 (3 months)Supported the design team in product development, contributing creative ideas for seasonal collections and custom projects.
Assisted with fabric sourcing, trend research, and technical documentation. -
Assistant DesignerFownes Brothers LLCNew York, NYMay 2011 - May 2012 (1 year)Assisted the Design Director in all stages of the design process of cold weather accessories; hats, scarves,gloveswith a focus on knits, woven, leather and synthetic fiber for UGG, Nautica, Tommy Hilfiger, MarcNew York, andNordstrom
Utilized Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop to create tech packs and renderings for design presentations andspecification packages. Prepared presentation materials for seasonal design reviews and cross-functional meetings
Organized color cards; assist in lab dips; processed comments in yarns dyes and quality submissions
Managed BOM creation, yarn sourcing and prototype fit comments, ensuring clear communication withmanufacturing partners
Competitive shopping research for inspiration on techniques, silhouettes, fabrics, construction and technology forupcoming season
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Industries
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Skills
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Elsewhere on the Web
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On Coroflot@michaelriverafashion, member since 2011
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Following 4
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Followers 4
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