Carrie Childs

Carrie Childs is the Director of Design at Patagonia, a position she has held since 2018. Here are some key points about her career and background:

Education and Background

Carrie Childs holds an MFA in Fashion Design and Apparel Technology. Her early life was influenced by her parents' climbing trips, which instilled in her a passion for both clothing and environmentalism.1

Career

Before joining Patagonia, Childs worked at Hanna Andersson, where she was a Design Manager for the Baby Toddler Division. She then moved to Patagonia, starting as a Designer for the Kids' division in 2016. Over time, her role expanded, and she became the Director of Design, overseeing various product categories including kids’ lines, men’s and women’s sportswear, fleece, workwear, and more.34

Contributions at Patagonia

At Patagonia, Childs has been instrumental in driving the company's sustainable practices. She works closely with a materials team to develop innovative fabrics and production methods that minimize environmental impact. One of her notable projects involves regenerative organic certification, which aims to rehabilitate soil, respect animal welfare, and improve the lives of farmers while increasing biodiversity and trapping carbon.1

Leadership and Philosophy

Childs is known for her commitment to sustainability and her alignment with Patagonia's mission to save the planet. She has mentioned that every creative decision and design choice is filtered through the company's overarching purpose of environmental stewardship. Her leadership style and design philosophy are deeply rooted in her environmental values and her passion for sustainable fashion.14

Skills and Expertise

Childs possesses advanced design skills, including drawing, sketching, concept ideation, and visual presentation. Her role at Patagonia involves directing design across multiple product categories, ensuring that the company's products are both functional and environmentally conscious.24