Expert Patternmaker & Draper
Arik is a world of whispered elegance, where romance and luxury intertwine in every stitch, where the finest threads are spun by unseen hands. Inspired by the grandeur of Renaissance gardens and the intoxicating allure of 1990s runway couture, our designs are a reverie of flowing silhouettes, opulent textures, and deep, storied hues like Blood of the Rose. The soft glow of candlelight dances on silks that shimmer as softly as moonbeam on water, velvets that hug the body like a lover’s embrace, and delicate Chantilly laces, as if the very air is infused with the essence of romance. Each piece is a love letter to femininity—crafted for those who embrace beauty with an air of mystery, moving through life like a vision from another time. More than fashion, we create heirlooms of passion and artistry, designed to be worn, cherished, adorned with reverence.
Dresses that flutter like petals in the wind, bodices that cinch with the grace of a gentle embrace, and skirts that cascade like the softest waves to paint a palette that speaks of love and the quiet strength of a woman’s spirit. This is a place where the heart of the feminine silhouette is celebrated in its purest form. Each garment a story woven into the fabric of time to wear the poetry of your soul.
We are seeking a detailed-oriented and highly skilled seamstress with a deep understanding of couture-level garment construction to join our atelier. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience working with delicate and high-end fabrics such as silk charmeuse, chiffon, organza, and lace. You must be confident with a variety of fine sewing techniques and demonstrate a couture-level standard of finish.
Responsibilities
Patternmaking & Draping
- Create first patterns from designer’s sketches, drapes, or references with precision and artistry
- Translate complex draped muslins into clean, production-ready patterns
- Execute both flat pattern and draping techniques depending on garment needs
- Collaborate directly with the designer and sample makers to iterate on design adjustments and ensure integrity of the original vision
Fabric Expertise & Fit
- Work with delicate and high-end materials including silk charmeuse, silk organza, lace, cotton voile, tulle, and novelty textiles
- Understand and anticipate how different fabrics behave in motion and on the body
- Ensure graceful drape, balanced grain, and impeccable seam placement
- Participate in fittings, take notes, and execute precise pattern corrections based on real-time fit feedback
- Maintain proper shrinkage allowances, grain lines, notches, seam allowances, and balance points
Development Process
- Partner with sample makers to problem-solve technical construction issues and ensure patterns are sewing-friendly
- Communicate with the designer to understand design intent and propose thoughtful technical solutions while maintaining the vision
- Archive and label all pattern pieces with professional organization
- Help build and maintain a digital and physical pattern archive as the collection expands
Qualifications
- Minimum 3+ years of professional patternmaking experience in luxury or designer womenswear
- Advanced draping skills, particularly with soft and fluid fabrics
- Exceptional understanding of fabric behavior, balance, and construction techniques
- Assist in sample cutting or initial prototype sewing
- Develop technical packs for production, if needed
- Experience with couture-level or high-end RTW fit standards
- Strong communication and collaboration skills; comfortable working in a creative, fast-paced studio
- Ability to work from sketch, reference garment, or designer’s verbal direction
- Mastery in traditional patternmaking methods; knowledge of digital patternmaking software (e.g., Gerber, Optitex, Clo3D) is a plus
- Passion for craftsmanship and love for detail—every dart, seam, and proportion should feel considered
- Comfortable working on-site in NYC and participating in fittings regularly\
Bonus Qualities
- Prior experience with small batch or made-to-order collections
- Familiarity with historical silhouettes or romantic design aesthetics
- Interest in sustainability, artisanal techniques, or slow fashion practices
- Experience working in a start-up or growing independent label environment
What We Offer
- The opportunity to work closely with a passionate founder and play a core role in shaping the fit and beauty of each collection
- A creative, supportive, and highly collaborative studio culture
- Competitive salary, commensurate with experience, including benefits (health insurance, PTO, parental leave, learning/development courses, access to shows/events)
- Opportunities for creative input and craftsmanship-focused growth
- A chance to be part of a growing brand that believes in the value of beauty, intentional design, and ethical luxury fashion
(Part-time to start, with potential for full-time by year’s end based on performance.)