Karen Schultz
Los Angeles
Summary
Professional design leader with 25+ years experience in design and product development for top U.S. retailers including Target, Walmart, Sam's Club, Urban Outfitters, and Hot Topic. I enjoy translating trends and my creative vision into scalable licensed, private label, and branded products that drive significant retail growth across Juniors, Plus, Kids, Mens, and even Adaptive categories. I am reliable and solution oriented with a keen ability to navigate changing project requirements and team dynamics. Currently implementing 3D design technology to reduce development timelines and improve design accuracy.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Design Director
Jerry Leigh of California
Van Nuys, CA
11.2008 - Current
- Co-developed a $10M/year costume division and apparel brand ‘Modern Hero,’ managing design, sourcing, and regional sales reps. Sold to retailers including Target, Hyde and Eek for Target, Sam's Club, Spirit Halloween, Spencer's, Party City
- Partner with CEO, Sales, and global licensors to align design strategy with business goals for all categories and tiers of distribution
- Lead team of designers, graphic artists, and tech designers driving product strategy across high volume retail programs
- Work cross-functionally to lead new business initiatives spanning national retail chains, theme parks, boutiques, and live entertainment/tour merchandise
- Activate live events, visual displays, and trade shows to support promotional and marketing initiatives.
- Create visually captivating campaigns that showcase new collections successfully.
- Mentor junior designers, fostering an environment of continuous learning and professional development.
- Acted as creative manager for all licensees for owned brand Abbey Dawn by Avril Lavigne at Kohl's
Senior Product Designer
Evy Of California
Los Angeles, CA
05.2014 - 09.2015
- Designed and developed seasonal children's collections, aligning design, graphics, production, and marketing to drive successful launches
- Collaborated directly with licensors including Disney, Mattel, Sanrio, Warner Brothers, Ecko Unltd, and Sean John.
- Mentored junior designers and interns, fostering a collaborative and productive working environment for creativity to thrive.
- Led interactive team-building and textile education programs to improve staff expertise, engagement, and overall performance.
Senior Product Designer
The Original Cult, Lip Service/Kill City
Los Angeles, CA
09.1999 - 10.2008
- Developed streetwear and accessory lines for Lip Service, aligning designs with market trends and brand identity.
- Directed photoshoots, look books, seasonal color catalogs, advertisements, & promo items
- Represented brand at domestic and international trade shows, generating sales and and expanding global client base.
- Activated live events to support promotional and marketing initiatives
- Created custom stagewear for celeb clientele including Aerosmith, Lynard Skynard, Cinderella, and Orgy.
Educational Assistant
FIDM
Los Angeles, CA
07.2004 - 11.2005
- Supported classroom activities by assisting teachers with lesson preparation and student engagement.
- Mentored students by offering support in design, sourcing, and navigating the fashion industry.
- Collaborated with educators to develop tailored educational resources and materials.
- Solicit Donations
- Curate Guest Speakers
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Fashion Design
Massachusetts College of Art
Boston, MASkills
- Production friendly design
- Engaging presentation skills
- Visual storytelling
- Illustration
- Photoshoot coordination
- Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, MS Office, Browzwear, Social Media, PLM
- Patternmaking
- Screen Printing knowledge
- Creative Pursuits: Sewing, Leatherwork, Neon Art, Metalwork, Vintage Clothing, Photography, German Language
Accomplishments
Selected for exhibition at the Museum at the FIT titled Gothic: Dark Glamour, featured alongside internationally renowned designers including Alexander McQueen, Jean Paul Gaultier, Rick Owens, and John Galliano.
Designed stagewear for Avril Lavigne, Steven Tyler of Aerosmith, and various other musicians.
Published Illustration in Vogue Italia for luxury brand Cerre
Timeline
Senior Product Designer
Evy Of California
05.2014 - 09.2015
Design Director
Jerry Leigh of California
11.2008 - Current
Educational Assistant
FIDM
07.2004 - 11.2005
Senior Product Designer
The Original Cult, Lip Service/Kill City
09.1999 - 10.2008
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Fashion Design
Massachusetts College of Art