I am a freelance fashion designer and technical design specialist based in San Francisco, with 5+ years of industry experience turning concept into production. I excel at producing detailed, production-ready tech packs, translating creative direction into precise technical documentation, and ensuring quality across design handoffs. I specialize in upcycled denim accessories and women’s wear, collaborating with ethical factories and cross-functional teams to bring sustainable concepts to life. My toolkit includes flat pattern drafting, BOM creation, construction details, and trend-driven color and textile research.…

Marina Gardea

I am a freelance fashion designer and technical design specialist based in San Francisco, with 5+ years of industry experience turning concept into production. I excel at producing detailed, production-ready tech packs, translating creative direction into precise technical documentation, and ensuring quality across design handoffs. I specialize in upcycled denim accessories and women’s wear, collaborating with ethical factories and cross-functional teams to bring sustainable concepts to life. My toolkit includes flat pattern drafting, BOM creation, construction details, and trend-driven color and textile research.…

Available to hire

I am a freelance fashion designer and technical design specialist based in San Francisco, with 5+ years of industry experience turning concept into production. I excel at producing detailed, production-ready tech packs, translating creative direction into precise technical documentation, and ensuring quality across design handoffs.

I specialize in upcycled denim accessories and women’s wear, collaborating with ethical factories and cross-functional teams to bring sustainable concepts to life. My toolkit includes flat pattern drafting, BOM creation, construction details, and trend-driven color and textile research.

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Work Experience

Freelance Fashion Designer at Shoppe Dreamy
January 1, 2018 - Present
Developed comprehensive tech packs for small batch upcycled denim accessories and apparel; Designed and produced festival-ready backpacks, tote bags, and home goods; Responsible for technical sketching, BOM creation, measurements, construction notes, and vendor-ready files; Partnered with ethical factories in Los Angeles to execute precise production-ready documentation; Collaborated with cross-functional teams including fit, sourcing, and local sewers.
Technical Designer at Bath House Swimwear
January 1, 2024 - October 16, 2025
Created digital tech packs for swimwear collection including specifications, construction details, and BOMs; Conducted fittings and provided notes for correction and updates; Maintained version control and sample tracking throughout the development cycle.
Tailor | Alterations Department at Nordstroms
January 1, 2024 - Present
Execute precise sewing and garment modifications under tight deadlines, demonstrating consistent accuracy and attention to detail; Collaborate closely with fitters and tailors to maintain garment quality and customer satisfaction; Interpret tech packs and pattern adjustments to achieve desired fit and specifications.
Assistant Designer at Proper Attire US
January 1, 2021 - October 16, 2025
Supported the design team with CAD flats, color story development, trend research, and tech pack creation; Assisted with fittings and construction reviews to ensure alignment with design intent; Gained hands-on experience across womenswear categories including knits, woven tops, and pants.

Education

Associate of Arts, Major in Fashion Design at Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM)
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2016

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Retail, Manufacturing, Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Other