Fashion Design Intern

Fashion Design Intern

Overview

FashionBar's Design & Development division supports identity-driven fashion brands focused on ready-to-wear and custom design. We work closely with emerging designers and established clients who require small-batch production and market-ready collections. FashionBar is seeking a Fashion Design Intern to join our Chicago-based fashion business and consulting firm. This role supports a variety of projects within the Design & Development team and provides hands-on experience in launching fashion designer brands. The selected intern will work closely with the Design & Development leadership team, supporting textile sourcing, pattern development, and prototype creation for client collections. This is an accredited internship offering valuable job training, mentorship, and exposure to multiple areas of the fashion industry.

Responsibilities

As a Fashion Design Intern at FashionBar LLC, you will support ongoing design projects throughout the semester. Our design teams work across multiple categories, including urban wear, bridal, prom, evening wear, and custom collections. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Sourcing and swatching fabrics
• Researching and developing concepts for collections
• Creating inspiration boards, flats, and presentation boards
• Organizing and archiving fabric, trim, article numbers, and pricing information
• Coordinating with pattern makers and sample makers to ensure quality and design execution
• Developing patterns for various client brands
• Organizing fabric libraries and samples
• Assisting with fittings and sample revisions
• Expediting samples as needed
• Assisting backstage during fashion events and productions
• Supporting photoshoots for designer collections

Qualifications

• Must be a full-time or part-time student working toward a degree in fashion or a related field
• Must be eligible to receive academic credit
• Able to commit 2–3 days per week for approximately 3 months
• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively within a team environment
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members and leadership
• Flexible and adaptable in a fast-paced environment
• Proficient in basic computer applications (Windows, Excel, PowerPoint, and related software)
• Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and a team-first mindset

Preferred (Not Required)

• Experience with GERBER
• Experience with CAD software
• Fashion concept sketching experience
• Familiarity with a wide range of fabrics and materials

Duration & Schedule

Duration: One semester or academic quarter

Approximately 20 hours per week

Scheduling is flexible and can be adjusted around school and work commitments

What We Offer

This is an unpaid internship, but the experience provides extensive professional value. Interns gain real-world exposure to the fashion industry, hands-on design experience, and direct mentorship from FashionBar's leadership and production teams. An internship at FashionBar is an excellent way to build your resume, develop tangible skills, and establish a strong foundation for a successful career in fashion.