Apparel Material Trend & Development [Contract]

Job Type: Contract [6-12months]

Department: Apparel and Accessories Material Development

Reports To: Director of Apparel and Accessories Material Innovation

Job Summary:

The Apparel Material Trend & Development Liaison will play a critical role in identifying and integrating cutting-edge materials and material innovations into performance and sportswear apparel. This role requires a keen eye for emerging trends in textiles, fabric performance, sustainability, and global supply chain dynamics ensuring the brand stays ahead in an ever-evolving market. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of how materials impact fit, function, and feel- balancing innovation with real-world athlete and consumer needs. By closely monitoring industry movements, attending trade shoes, collaborating with suppliers, this individual will help shape the future of performance apparel through strategic material development, sourcing, and trending forecasting on a seasonal basis. They will work closely with the material development team at headquarters, design, and sourcing teams to ensure that the latest advancements in fabric trends, technology, and sustainability are incorporated into the brand’s collections.

Key Responsibilities:

Material Trend Research & Innovation

• Monitor and analyze emerging trends in apparel and accessories, and in the performance and sportswear industry with a focus on materials

• Attend textile expos, trade shows, and industry summits to source innovative materials and build strategic partnerships

• Research and evaluate new performance-driven materials, including moisture-wicking, stretch, breathability, thermoregulation, and compression fabrics

Material Development & Sourcing

• Collaborate with designers, material developers, and sourcing partners to develop and source technical fabrics

• Partner with mills and vendors to create exclusive or custom materials that align with brand innovation and performance goals

• Test and validate fabric for durability, stretch recovery, breathability, and environmental impact etc

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Act as the link between supplier partners and material development team at headquarters requiring frequent meetings and check points

• Act as liaison and coordinator for supplier visits with material development and design team

• Create and maintain a material library and communicate fabric insights through trend report and presentations

Qualifications & Skills:

• 3-5 years of experience in performance fabric development, material sourcing, or textile development within the apparel industry

• Strong knowledge of technical textiles, including compression, water resistance, four-way stretch, and thermoregulating materials

• Experience working with vendors, mills, and material suppliers specializing in apparel

• Strong project management, analytical, and communication skills

• Passion for design, sports, fitness, and performance-driven innovation