Hi, I'm Leslie Rivera, a graduate from Colorado State University with a BA in Human Sciences, specializing in Product Development. My journey through the Apparel & Merchandising program has refined my skills in design and product development, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity in fashion. I'm skilled in using Adobe Creative Suite, CLO3D, and CAD Fusion 360 to craft innovative designs and manage projects efficiently. My experience includes streamlining production processes, enhancing product development, and creating designs that prioritize self-expression and accessibility. Fluent in Spanish and experienced in collaborative settings, I'm committed to making fashion a powerful tool for personal expression.

EDUCATION

About ME 

Graduated - December 2023 GPA 3.33

Bachelors of Science in Apparel & Merchandise

Colorado State University, Fort Collins CO

EMPLOYMENT

Steve Sells Studio

Assistant Designer 

  • Led design initiatives by researching fashion trends, sourcing materials, and assisting in mood board and sketch creation, which contributed to a 12% increase in acceptance rates during vendor presentations. 
  • Coordinated fabric orders and trend analysis, created detailed fashion illustrations, and supported garment sewing and pattern drafting, ensuring high-quality delivery throughout the design lifecycle.
  • Executed comprehensive design tasks, including trend forecasting, CAD creation, pattern making, dye processes, garment construction, and fabric ordering, while also managing website development and social media

Olivia Miller INC.

Production coordinater

  • Streamlined production processes by creating production keys, managing email communications, and designing customer catalogs, resulting in a 15% increase in productivity and organization over a 3-month period
  • Enhanced efficiency through effective use of Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator for design projects, overseeing the creation and approval of purchase orders, and managing product tracking systems. • Optimized operations by organizing files and improving attention to detail, leading to timely updates of catalogs for the Fall 2024 season and facilitating smooth communication with overseas factories.

Red Barron

Merchandiser 

  • Created impactful product displays for Red Baron, strategically arranging items and signage to enhance visibility and drive increase in sales. 
  • Developed visually appealing showcases using dynamic arrangements and creative techniques, improving customer engagement, and contributing to a 20% boost in retail performance.

David’s Bridal

Alterations Specialist 

  • Coordinated fittings and alterations for gowns and bridesmaid dresses, including fit adjustments, hems, beadwork, lace, and custom changes, with meticulous attention to detail, resulting in a increase in client satisfaction and overall productivity.
  • Operated industrial-grade machinery in a fast-paced environment, applying garment construction principles to achieve a 25% improvement in efficiency and project turnaround times while maintaining high-quality standards

skills

Adobe Suite

3D Design

Illustrator | Photoshop | InDesign

CAD

CLO | Sketchup |

PLM Systems

Fusion 360

Microsoft Office

Backbone

Languages 

Spanish | Fluent

Awards 

Excel | Word | PowerPoint |
concentration - Product Development 
Aurora, CO March 2019 - May 2020

Aurora, CO April 2022 - August 2024

Ascent Scholarship for academic excellence, Community College of Aurora                                                 May 2017 Awarded $5,000
Cotton Incorporated for Apparel conceptualization, Colorado State University                                                 December 2023 AWARDED $600

Graduated - May 2019 GPA 3.35

Associates of Arts

Commuinty College Of Aurora, Aurora CO

concentration - Criminal Justice 
Denver, CO May 2023 - April 2024
City of Industry, CA May 2024 - August 2024