Rita J Irisarri

Rita J Irisarri has extensive experience in the apparel industry, with a focus on design. Rita J began their career in 1999 as a Customer Service Team Lead at Amazon while attending classes for an Apparel Design degree. Rita J then worked as a Wardrobe Manager/Stylist in various freelance roles, collaborating with performance artist groups and working on film and video projects.

In 2003, Rita joined London Fog as an Assistant Designer before moving on to Tommy Bahama, where they were promoted to Associate Designer, designing women's knits, sweaters, and woven tops. Rita J also had a successful tenure at ExOfficio, where they managed multiple men's and women's product categories and achieved significant sales growth in the underwear business.

Rita's experience in the activewear market includes a role as the Lead Activewear Designer/Consultant at MB Sport, where they provided design direction, trend forecasting, and fit guidance for multiple private label companies. Rita J then joined Rhone as a Senior Designer, leading the design of activewear, technical apparel, and athleisure products, collaborating with development managers and managing private label developments for renowned brands.

Currently, Rita is the Design Director at Rhone, overseeing the development of seasonal trends, color themes, and style directions for men's premium active apparel and accessories. Rita J works closely with the Chief Product Officer to create materials for high-level presentations and oversees the internal design team and seasonal freelancers. Rita J also plays a crucial role in refining processes to meet the company's growth initiatives.

In addition to their design career, Rita co-created and managed the Substrata Festival, a highly successful music event that gained international interest during its existence from 2011 to 2015.

Overall, Rita J Irisarri's work experience showcases their expertise in design, trend forecasting, product development, and project management in the apparel industry.

Rita J Irisarri has a diverse education history spanning several fields of study. In 1992 to 1994, they attended Seattle Central College and pursued a field of study in Art/Art Studies, General. Rita J then furthered their education at the same institution from 1999 to 2001, earning an Associate of Applied Science in Apparel Design and Development. In 2001, Rita attended Seattle Fashion Academy, specializing in Fashion Draping/Fit Block Creation.

In 2010, Rita sought additional training to enhance their skills. Rita J completed Adobe Creative Suite Training at Luminous Works, LLC and Machine Knitting Techniques Training at The Knitting School.

In 2020, Rita pursued personal enrichment in Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Gray Area Foundation for the Arts, INC. While no specific degree was obtained, this experience suggests a keen interest in the subject.

Furthermore, Rita acquired a certification in CLO 3D from the Fashion Institute of Technology in October 2021. This certification reflects their dedication to staying updated in the fashion industry.

Overall, Rita J Irisarri's education history showcases a passion for creativity, design, and technical skills across various disciplines.