Nicole Jacques
Nashville,TN
Summary
Creative product designer and merchandise developer with extensive experience managing the full product lifecycle — from trend research, custom artwork development, tech pack creation, vendor communication, sample review, and final execution. I specialize in designing apparel, accessories, gifts, and lifestyle merchandise that align with brand standards, market trends, and commercial goals. Known for delivering accurate, detail-driven product specs, maintaining consistent brand aesthetics, and collaborating cross-functionally with merchandising, product development, and vendor partners. Highly skilled in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, with strong knowledge of PLM systems, packaging requirements, and trademark/copyright guidelines. Bringing a passion for storytelling through products, and a deep understanding of the Nashville consumer.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Designer
Macys
New York City
10.2019 - 05.2025
- Led product design and development across multiple lifestyle and private-label brands, including apparel, accessories, gifting, and seasonal product categories.
- Managed the full product lifecycle: trend research, concept creation, artwork, color direction, fabrication, tech packs, vendor communication, and final approvals.
- Created custom graphics, embroidery layouts, print artwork, packaging specs, and design decks for cross-functional partners.
- Reviewed and edited vendor artwork to ensure commercial viability, brand consistency, and adherence to cost, quality, and legal standards.
- Built quote sheets, line sheets, CAD libraries, and seasonal assortments to support merchandising and category planning.
- Partnered with vendors to ensure accurate execution of prints, trims, packaging, and product construction, improving sample accuracy by 30%.
- Supported merchandising in pricing, assortment architecture, and identifying whitespace opportunities based on trends and consumer insights.
Senior Designer Private Label
Vera Wang + Jennifer Lopez
New York City
01.2013 - 09.2019
- Designed across apparel, accessories, and lifestyle categories, ensuring a strong brand identity and cohesive seasonal storytelling.
- Developed trend concepts, color stories, print direction, silhouette strategies, and emotional brand narratives that shaped product development.
- Partnered with fabric teams and vendors to build brand-right material platforms, and ensure sample accuracy.
- Collaborated with merchandising teams on assortment strategies, item-level pricing, and category expansion.
- Ensured all designs met quality, construction, and fit standards through detailed tech packs and regular vendor communication.
Designer
Betsy Johnson
New York City
07.2012 - 12.2013
- Supported collection development across apparel and accessories, including trend boards, color palettes, print artwork, fabric research, and styling.
- Coordinated with factories on product development timelines, artwork accuracy, and assortment execution.
- Strengthened creative versatility by designing bold, expressive artwork, and graphics aligned with brand identity.
Education
Leadership Workshop
Harvard Business School
08.2022
Corporate Sustainability
NYU
04.2019
Sustainability & Microplastics
Cotton Inc
06.2018
BFA - Fashion Design
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago, IL06.2005
Skills
- Product development (full lifecycle)
- Vendor communication and sample management
- Tech pack creation and technical specifications
- Trend research and market analysis
- Graphic design and custom artwork development
- Product line planning and merchandising support
- Brand standards and aesthetic consistency
- Market research
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign expertise
- PLM systems and digital tools (Oracle Fusion familiarity)
Timeline
Senior Designer
Macys
10.2019 - 05.2025
Senior Designer Private Label
Vera Wang + Jennifer Lopez
01.2013 - 09.2019
Designer
Betsy Johnson
07.2012 - 12.2013
Leadership Workshop
Harvard Business School
Corporate Sustainability
NYU
Sustainability & Microplastics
Cotton Inc
BFA - Fashion Design
School of the Art Institute of Chicago