Cody James

VP Men's Design
Los Angeles, California, United States

Professional Overview

Cody James is an accomplished men's fashion design executive with over a decade of experience leading design teams and driving product innovation. As the VP of Men's Design at Rails, he is responsible for overseeing the brand's menswear collections, ensuring exceptional quality, and aligning designs with the company's strategic vision.

Experience Summary

Current Role

As the VP of Men's Design at Rails, Cody is responsible for leading the men's design team, developing seasonal collections, and ensuring that the brand's menswear offerings resonate with their target audience. He collaborates closely with cross-functional teams to translate the brand's aesthetic into cutting-edge, commercially successful products. Under Cody's leadership, Rails has experienced a significant increase in men's category sales and expanded its retail footprint.

Career Progression

Prior to joining Rails, Cody held the role of Head of Men's Design at Faherty Brand, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the brand's menswear identity and driving double-digit growth in the category. Earlier in his career, he served as an Associate Designer at RRL Polo Ralph Lauren and a Designer at Label NYC, honing his skills in technical design, trend forecasting, and product development.

Academic Background

Cody holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design from the Parsons School of Design, where he developed a strong foundation in garment construction, technical drawing, and conceptual design.

Areas of Expertise

• Menswear design and product development

• Trend analysis and forecasting

• Creative direction and brand stewardship

• Cross-functional collaboration and team leadership

• Strategic planning and commercial business acumen

Professional Impact

Under Cody's design leadership, Rails has consistently delivered innovative menswear collections that have resonated with the brand's target customers. His designs have been recognized for their exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and alignment with current fashion trends. Cody's ability to translate the brand's DNA into commercially successful products has been instrumental in driving the company's growth in the men's category.

Conclusion

Cody James is a seasoned men's fashion design executive with a proven track record of success. His expertise in design, trend forecasting, and brand strategy, combined with his dynamic leadership skills, make him a valuable asset to the Rails team. As the VP of Men's Design, Cody is poised to continue driving the brand's menswear offerings to new heights and solidifying its position as a leader in the industry.