Carly Hamer is a seasoned Design and Merchandising executive with over 15 years of experience in the apparel and accessories industry. As the Senior Director of Design & Merchandising at Randa Apparel & Accessories, she oversees the strategic development and execution of product lines that cater to the evolving needs of the company's diverse customer base. In addition to her full-time role, Carly also maintains a successful freelance career as an Accessory Designer, collaborating with renowned fashion brands like Derek Lam.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Senior Director of Design & Merchandising at Randa Apparel & Accessories, Carly is responsible for leading a team of talented designers and merchandisers in crafting innovative and commercially viable product offerings. She plays a pivotal role in aligning the company's design and merchandising strategies with its overarching business objectives, ensuring that each collection resonates with the target audience and drives sales growth. Under Carly's leadership, the design and merchandising teams have consistently delivered products that have exceeded revenue targets and earned critical acclaim within the industry.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Carly held various design and merchandising positions at leading fashion brands, including serving as the Accessories Design Manager at Kate Spade and the Associate Merchandiser at Nordstrom. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a keen eye for emerging trends, a deep understanding of consumer preferences, and a proven ability to translate strategic vision into tangible product development. Carly's career progression has been marked by her ability to consistently deliver exceptional results and drive continuous improvement within the organizations she has been a part of.
Academic Background
Carly holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Fashion Design from the prestigious Parsons School of Design in New York City. During her time at Parsons, she excelled academically and was recognized for her innovative design concepts and technical expertise, earning her the prestigious Parsons Scholarship.
Areas of Expertise
- Apparel and Accessory Design
- Trend Forecasting and Consumer Insights
- Product Development and Merchandising
- Cross-Functional Team Leadership
- Strategic Planning and Execution
- Vendor and Supply Chain Management
Professional Impact
Carly's contributions to the fashion industry have been recognized through numerous accolades, including the CFDA Accessories Designer of the Year award and the Accessory Council's Designer of the Year honor. Her designs have been featured in leading fashion publications and have been worn by prominent celebrities, further solidifying her reputation as a respected and innovative designer.
Conclusion
With her extensive experience, exceptional design skills, and strategic mindset, Carly Hamer continues to drive innovation and guide the success of the brands she works with. Her unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional products and consistently exceeding client expectations positions her as a valuable asset in the ever-evolving world of fashion and design.
