MEET THE BM TEAM!

First name: Rachel

Nickname: Rachel, Richelle, Gingersnap; pick your fav. 

What is your role at BlackMilk? Lead Graphic Designer – License

How long have you been working at BM? 9 years – old right? 

What does a typical day at work look like for you? Where to even start? At 7.30am with coffee in hand, I would be tackling the design challenge of the day. Whether it is creating heavily specific placement artwork on a floor length maxi dress or beginning to concept a whirlwind of designs for our next licensed collection, I hit the ground running. Then, depending on the day, I have fittings to check over the designs, handle anything that comes with producing artwork on garments (colours, swatches, fabrics and more) or having really exciting meetings with some of the most amazing companies I’ve had the pleasure of working with! Everyone has a favourite TV show, gaming company, game etc. – I’m honoured to meet the people who build the core structure of those, it’s amazing. 

Then it’s a combination of several cups of coffee, a heavy set of inspirational music to listen to and I’m back at designing again: drawing, looking through assets, pulling shapes and inspo images together to present to my Design Director to show what we want to do in our next awesome licensed collab! 

How did you get into Graphic Design? My education was in Screen and Media Animation but I always had an interest in fashion. So it was an interesting shift. Through studying personally and growing my skills in designing I was able to apply to the business when they were looking for a Finishing Artist – a more technical aspect than design. However it led me into my love for designing – and I was able to present my ideas from there.

What’s your fave thing about working at BM? Definitely the career progression I’ve had. From working through the production team in the printing department to having the opportunity to become a part of the design team has been one heck of an experience – not to mention making friendships within the BlackMilk team.

What advice do you have for people trying to get into Graphic Design? You never know where your life will take you. Do something you’re passionate about and strive to keep that in the back of your mind, whatever you take on. Not only that but research and expand your knowledge! Never fear in trying something new or daring to apply for a position that has nothing to do with what you’re studying because it really can be an alignment of the stars. Be positive, be confident and be yourself. 

What BlackMilk work achievement are you most proud of? Honestly it’s so hard to choose but I’d have to say getting to design the Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Ribbon Transformation dresses and bodysuit. While it is something that seems like a no-brainer for this fandom, I was allowed to draw this design from scratch! 

What’s your fave BlackMilk piece? Oh man, you’re making me choose? Okay: for non-licensed gear it would have to be the Dragon Bouquet Boyfriend Shirt. That print has always been one of my favourites, but it was put on the perfect shape for me so I needed to have it.

Licensed? Hehe: all of it, but the one that had to be in my possession within an instant was the Princess Peach Bomber Jacket. Who doesn’t want to be the ultimate Princess?

Describe your style in three words Nerdy, Comfortable, Eclectic.

What do you love to do in your spare time? Cosplay! I have a massive love for designing costumes and creating outfits for events. It’s always been a passion of mine and I became addicted to it. 

Fave food? Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes) – you give me that with eggs and I’m a happy little lady.

Do you have a hidden talent? Hidden talent? Oh honey, nothing is hidden about me. 

What can’t you live without? Besides coffee? My dogs, hands down.

What are three items you’d take with you to a deserted island? My dogs, sunscreen and a boat (you didn’t say we had to stay on the island!).

What book should people read? Tomie by Junji Ito (Manga counts right?).

What was the last show you binge watched? Fallout (2024) – I am the biggest Fallout fan and this blew away my expectations! I binged it in one sitting. 

What are you listening to at the moment? MILLION DOLLAR BABY by Tommy Richman.

If you could go anywhere on your next holiday, where would you go? Japannnnnnn – I’d go with the clothes on my back and two empty suitcases (I’d fill them up).

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? I really want to see the License department in BlackMilk grow into its own unique section. We see real potential in growing collections to be bigger, better and more elevated from average merchandise. So I want to grow with it! Perhaps take on a bigger role, who knows! Honestly I work so far in advance I’m already in next year so it’s hard not to already kind of see my future haha! 

Anything else you want to add? Getting the opportunity to show my love for shows, games and more through clothing has been a true honour. Not only that but the team I work with are amazing, passionate and know how to get things done – and they love to have a laugh! 

Just for fun, show us your pets!! Lucky: 8 and my baby (spotty beauty). Lolly: 14 and still alive (pink haired old lady).