CreativeOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Fashion Designer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$116,389/yr
Typical range: $120,682 – $155,792
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Fashion Designer salary by experience level in Chicago
Fashion Designer Salary Progression in Chicago
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $56,376 | $4,698 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $72,743 | $6,062 | +29% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $84,867 | $7,072 | +51% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $96,021 | $8,002 | +70% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $116,389 | $9,699 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $132,393 | $11,033 | +135% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $136,394 | $11,366 | +142% |
Current Salary
$116,389
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $56/hr
Next Level Target
$132,393
Principal · 14
+$16Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
33/100
High Risk
+3% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Fashion Designer salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Fashion Designers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $116K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Fashion Designer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $116K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $56/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Fashion Designer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Fashion Designer in Chicago, IL earns $121K–$156K/yr.