Sample Room Sewer
Khaite
New York, NY, USA
ABOUT KHAITE
KHAITE is a way of looking at the world. Shaped by formative encounters, cultural touchstones, and secret desires, this point of view comes to life through womenswear and accessories that find confidence in contrast. Each piece proposes a fresh balance of opposing elements- masculine and feminine, strength and softness, structure and fluidity- while embodying a signature sensuality and ease.
Founded in 2016 by creative director Catherine Holstein and based in New York, KHAITE evolves with each season, building upon a foundation of robust yet polished items distinguished by exceptional materials, exquisite craftsmanship, and subtle yet striking details.
ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY
We are looking for a highly skilled Sample Room Sewer to join our in-house atelier in NYC. This role is central to the development process, bringing cut components to life through precise construction, fitting, and finishing of prototypes, development samples, and SMS garments.
The ideal candidate brings deep technical sewing expertise, meticulous attention to detail, and a disciplined approach to garment construction, fit evaluation, and atelier standards across a range of fabrications and silhouettes.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Construct first prototypes, 2nd prototypes, and SMS samples with precision and efficiency, from initial assembly through final finishing
- Interpret construction notes, tech packs, and development direction to ensure accurate execution at every stage
- Partner closely with Sample Room Cutters, Technical Design, and Product Development to support sample build from cut to completion
- Sew mock-ups, toile garments, and test pieces for early-stage development and construction trials
- Identify and communicate fit, construction, and assembly issues to Technical Design, contributing to iterative corrections
- Execute a range of construction techniques appropriate to material type, including silk, leather, denim, and specialty fabrics
- Apply and test interlinings and fusibles during development, partnering with Technical Design on final construction decisions
- Assist the Atelier Manager in preparing and completing sample packages for internal development and external partners
- Support special projects, runway samples, and VIP garments with elevated attention to detail and craft
- Maintain a high standard of atelier workflow, cleanliness, and efficiency
SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS
Qualifications:
- 5–10+ years of experience as a sample sewer in a luxury sample room or atelier environment
- Strong command of garment construction techniques across a wide range of categories and silhouettes
- Proven ability to work from patterns, technical sketches, and verbal direction with minimal oversight
- Experience constructing toiles and mock-ups for early-stage fit and construction evaluation
- Familiarity with interlining and fusible application and how material choices affect construction outcomes
- High level of precision and consistency across a range of fabric types and construction methods
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment while maintaining quality
Preferred:
- Experience in luxury RTW or couture development environments
- Familiarity with leather construction and specialty material handling
- Experience supporting design-led development and contributing constructive feedback during the fitting process
Please note: This job description does not list all the duties of the job. Employees may be asked by management to perform other duties. The employer has the right to revise this job description at any time.
OUR VALUES
- Creativity ~ We are always imagining, never imitating.
- Integrity ~ We do the right thing.
- Kindness ~ We value people and their ideas, so we act and speak with compassion.
- Agility ~ We move with intention, flexibility, and speed to stay ahead.
- Tenacity ~ We are insatiable. Our drive is relentless.
WE OFFER
The salary range is $75,000-85,000. The rate of pay offered will be dependent upon the candidates' relevant skills and experience. Other benefits include medical, dental, and vision programs, a company bonus plan, employee discounts and perks, a 401k plan with employer match, and other ancillary benefits.
KHAITE is an equal opportunity employer. We want to offer an inclusive environment of mutual respect where we welcome diversity and all our employees feel included, developed, and heard. We do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute, including race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital or veteran status, pregnancy or disability, or any other basis protected under applicable law. KHAITE recruits and recognizes all types of talent and singularities.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. If E-Verify cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, this employer is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or Social Security Administration (SSA) so you can begin to resolve the issue before the employer can take any action against you, including terminating your employment. Employers can only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9.