About Michaela

Michaela Plotner is a designer and creative professional whose work sits at the intersection of fashion, brand, and storytelling. With nearly a decade of experience shaping women’s products and brand narratives, she brings a thoughtful and modern perspective to design that is grounded in creativity, strategy, and connection.

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A graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design, where she earned a B.F.A. in Fashion Design and a minor in Accessory Design, Michaela has built a multifaceted career across women’s apparel. Most recently, she served as a Lead Designer at J.Jill, overseeing the Wearever sub-brand, a desk-to-dinner concept designed for a younger core customer. In this role, she led the design and development of polished, versatile pieces including suiting and elevated styles for the mainline collection. She also contributed to Pure Jill, where she developed original embroidery artwork that reflected the brand’s artistic and textural aesthetic.

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Previously at Kohl’s, Michaela designed across multiple categories including knits, wovens, denim, dresses, and athleisure. Her collections combined commercial appeal with creative integrity and reflected her ability to balance art and function. Earlier in her career, she designed loungewear and intimates for Gilly Hicks, Hollister’s sister brand, and styled editorial photoshoots for SOUTH magazine.

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Her design philosophy centers on curiosity, collaboration, and empathy. These values guide her creative process and leadership approach as she builds brands and products that celebrate craftsmanship, inclusivity, and sustainability.

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Michaela is currently expanding her expertise through an MBA program where she is exploring the connections between design, business, and leadership. Her goal is to continue evolving from designer to brand strategist and creative leader.

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For collaborations or opportunities, please contact michaela.plotner@gmail.com.

Her résumé is available below.