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.