ABOUT KAITLIN

During the day, I'm deep into design, crafting apparel that tells its own story. By night, I transition into a yoga instructor, guiding others through moments of peace and strength. And in the spaces between, I dive into a whirlwind of experiences that have shaped my journey.

​

My adventure began with a Textiles and Apparel degree from the University of Northern Iowa. I traded the tranquility of small-town Iowa for the vibrant buzz of Chicago's city lights. Immersing myself in the fashion world alongside Mac Duggal, an international pageant dress designer, was eye-opening. That pivotal summer introduced me to the captivating realm of apparel creation through fashion shows, photo shoots, and content curation.

​

Freelancing briefly with athletic apparel preceded a shift to Storm Creek in Hastings, MN. Here, I underwent a metamorphosis in a technical design role, collaborating directly with the company owner to create entire lines of apparel, spanning from knit tees to high-performance ski jackets. Juggling technical CAD illustrations, tech pack creation, vendor liaison, and team management, I thrived in the creative chaos.

​

The Southern Tide chapter broadened my horizons further. As part of their team, I ventured into men's woven apparel, mastering new CAD software and spearheading their PLM system. I sculpted countless woven patterns, crafted best-selling activewear, and breathed life into their men's swim line.

​

Transitioning back to technical design at Oobe Apparel Group, I orchestrated the integration of a PLM system and delved into the intricate world of measuring guides and fabric libraries. My role expanded to head designer for the high-end line OOBE Brand, exploring Italian mills and US-based factories, orchestrating a symphony of high-end men's apparel.

​

However, the upheavals of 2020 disrupted these delicate threads of creativity, leaving me at a crossroads. Returning to Southern Tide as a design manager was a tough decision, but one that reunited me with a team I cherished.

​

Now, I orchestrate a creative ensemble, guiding them from concept to production, overseeing every intricate detail.

Outside the design realm, I find solace in yoga, hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains, cycling the Swamp Rabbit Trail, and exploring our evolving city.

​

My heart lies with family moments, sharing laughter with my son, husband, loyal Shepard mix, and a tight-knit circle of friends. And when time allows, I sip an americano while lost in a gripping mystery or explore offbeat corners of this world, eager for new discoveries.