Mona Al-Shaalan (She/her)
I am a globally accomplished Designer with over 12 years of experience directing Men’s and Women’s collections for leading fashion and technical apparel brands. My career has taken me across Berlin, New York, Paris, Milan, London, and Los Angeles, shaping a design perspective that is deeply rooted in cultural diversity, artistic exploration, and technical excellence. From the structured elegance of Paris to the raw edge of Berlin and the creative pulse of Los Angeles, I’ve led projects that blend innovation and artistry. My portfolio includes my collaboration with top-tier brands such as Givenchy, Versace, Yeezy, McQ by Alexander McQueen, The North Face, and Marmot, each reflecting a distinct narrative and purpose. Throughout my career, I’ve redefined what it means to balance bold creative vision with commercial relevance. Whether pioneering sustainable sourcing strategies, integrating advanced technical innovation, or mentoring teams to achieve breakthrough results, my work consistently pushes boundaries. Currently based in San Francisco, I continue to evolve a design philosophy that merges elevated aesthetics with functionality and cultural relevance. My journey across these global cities has allowed me to create designs that are not only impactful and enduring but also a reflection of the dynamic world we live in.
Visionary Global Design Director with a distinctive ability to bridge the worlds of high-fashion luxury and cutting-edge technical innovation, cultivated through extensive experience in Paris, London, Milan and the US. A trailblazer in creating Men’s and Women’s collections that balance bold, forward-thinking design with precision and purpose. Known for pioneering sustainable approaches to sourcing and development, blending artistry and ethics to craft products that resonate on a global scale. Versed in the intricacies of performance, outdoor technical design, and luxury craftsmanship, bringing a holistic, boundary-breaking perspective to modern fashion. With a sharp eye on cultural shifts and future trends, delivering compelling narratives that redefine what’s possible in contemporary design. A proven leader, driving teams to unlock new levels of creativity and innovation while setting the standard for the next generation of progressive, versatile design. https://www.monaalshaalan.com
Spearheading Design Direction and technical Innovation for Men’s andWomen’s Apparel, Underwear and Accessories Collections • Leading the Creative Vision for Color and Materials • Collaborating closely with the VP to align on GTM and Creative strategies • Managing Special Projects and Collaborations • Ensuring Quality through fit, construction and fabrication
Directed Women’s and Men’s Sport and Outerwear (City, Essentials and BlackSeries) • Managed Special Projects and led the Women’s Design Committee • Directed Creative Concepts for Seasonal Kick-Offs, reporting directly to theGlobal Creative Director • Designed into Head-to-Toe Outfits in collaboration with Merchandise Teams • collaborated with Marketing Teams on Campaigns and Events for SpecialProduct launches in New York and Paris • Led fit sessions and coordinated Product Development Trips
Oversaw Design and Product Development for Pre- and Main Collectionacross all product categories • Conducted comprehensive Research, Fabric selection, and DesignDevelopment • Coordinated studio technicians, Fittings, Factory Trips and reported to theHead of Menswear
Pioneered Outerwear Design for Men’s and Women’s first Yeezy Season • Worked directly under the guidance and Creative Direction of Kanye West
Designed all Product Categories for Pre and Main Collection including specialprojects, Embroidery, and Print • Reported to the Head of Menswear
Contributed to the Design of Pre and Main Collection and Special Projects likethe Met Gala • Reported to the Senior Menswear Designer • Managed Research and all created all CADs for larger Design Team
Assisted in Design for Women's and Men's • Prepped for Runways shows and Presentations in NYC & Paris
I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Mona Al-Shaalan from her career start, first meeting her in Paris and later welcoming her as an intern in New York. Even early on, it was clear Mona had a distinct voice—rooted in purpose, curiosity, and a thoughtful approach to design. When I brought her onto the team at The North Face, she immediately began to reshape what product could mean for a new generation. She led the creation and launch of the Black Series, a bold concept that spanned archival storytelling to futurist expression. Mona masterfully wove together sustainability, performance, and fashion—elevating the entire product ecosystem through intelligent silhouettes and relevant design thinking. The project culminated in a 3D AI-generated film featuring athletes and debuted at Paris Fashion Week inside the Louvre Museum—a rare cross-pollination of tech, sport, and culture. It was a moment where mountain met metropolis, and Mona’s vision stood at the center. What sets Mona apart is her ability to connect product with meaning. She designs with intention, ensuring every detail serves a purpose—whether through sustainable material choices, innovation platforms, or cultural resonance. She moves with clarity and conscience, bridging concept and execution in a way that’s deeply attuned to what’s next. Mona is not just a designer—she’s a systems thinker, a storyteller, and a visionary voice for the future of design.