Expert Apparel Designer & Manufacturing Coordinator for Premium Athletic Wear Line.

I am launching a new Texas-based company focused on high-quality EDC (everyday carry) gear, lifestyle products, and now a proprietary line of athletic wear. I need a skilled apparel specialist (designer + sourcing/manufacturing coordinator) to develop and bring to market an initial collection of athletic/performance clothing with unique patterns, aesthetics, and technical features. The goal is to create a premium athletic wear line (e.g., shorts, leggings, hoodies, t-shirts, base layers, etc.) that stands out through custom designs, performance-oriented fabrics, and reliable overseas production. You will handle creative design, material selection/sourcing, and identify/qualify a contract manufacturer (strong preference for Vietnam or similar cost-effective, high-quality regions in Asia) capable of producing small-to-medium initial runs and shipping to Texas, USA. This is a collaborative project. I will provide brand direction, target customer profiles, key performance requirements, and approval at each stage. You will drive the technical and execution aspects. Key Responsibilities & Deliverables Phase 1: Design & Concept Development (Expected 2-4 weeks) Create original designs, patterns, and aesthetics for 4-8 initial SKUs (mix of tops, bottoms, and outer layers). Develop colorways, logo integration, and technical sketches (flats, specs, and mockups). Incorporate performance features (moisture-wicking, breathability, stretch, durability, anti-odor, etc.) aligned with athletic/EDC use. Deliver: Digital design files (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or equivalent), tech packs for each style, and 3D mockups or samples where possible. Phase 2: Fabric & Material Selection + Sourcing (Parallel/2-3 weeks) Research and recommend performance fabrics (e.g., polyester blends, recycled materials, spandex, mesh, etc.) with specifications for weight, stretch, durability, and certifications (OEKO-TEX, GRS, etc. preferred). Source suppliers and provide costed BOM (Bill of Materials). Deliver: Detailed material options with samples/swatches (physical or high-res digital), pricing, MOQ, and lead times. Phase 3: Manufacturing Partner Identification & Qualification (2-4 weeks) Identify and vet 3-5 contract manufacturers (priority: Vietnam; open to China, India, Bangladesh, etc. with strong track record in athletic/performance wear). Evaluate capabilities: minimum order quantities (ideally starting at 100-500 units per style), sampling process, quality control, compliance (labor, environmental), shipping logistics to Texas, and pricing. Negotiate initial quotes, sample production terms, and production agreements. Deliver: Shortlist with comparison matrix (capabilities, pricing, lead times, risks), recommended partner(s), and introduction/facilitation of first sample orders. Phase 4: Sampling, Iteration & Pre-Production Oversee first sample production and shipping to me in Texas. Manage revisions based on fit, quality, and performance testing feedback. Finalize tech packs, grading, and production specifications. Ongoing Support (Optional, to be discussed) Production oversight for initial order. Quality assurance guidelines and inspection support. Scaling recommendations for future runs.