Week 3 – Understanding the Structure and Workflow of SHEWORKs

SHEWORKs operates with a small but well-organised studio structure in which each department plays a distinct role while remaining closely connected. The brand head leads the organization, while the textile designer and manager oversee departments such as the pattern cutting studio, embroidery studio, and product development studio to ensure smooth workflow and timely completion of tasks. Interns support the organization by assisting the designer and brand head with various tasks, including motif tracing, product sample collection, fabric material handling, and documentation. This structure reflects a professional working environment within the fashion and textile industry.



My role in the development of the company’s products is primarily supportive and research-based. I researched recycling leftover fabric into sustainable products such as tote bags and bandana-style patchwork pieces made from square fabric. I also researched heritage-based motifs, including Mughal-inspired floral designs, to support artisans in developing embroidery concepts. Creating research boards helped me understand the design concepts and detailed line work of each motif. Along with my fellow intern, I assisted in documentation tasks, traced motif repetitions onto tracing paper, and provided these to the embroidery team after double-checking with the supervisor and brand head. I also supported refurbishment processes. Overall, this experience helped me understand the workflow of a workshop-based company and highlighted the importance of handmade textiles, where a great deal of silent, detailed labor is carried out by artisans through hand embroidery.



The supervisors manage workflow, guide design decisions, and coordinate communication between departments. Embroidery artisans are responsible for executing detailed hand embroidery using traditional techniques. Pattern cutters translate designs into accurate garment shapes, while sewing staff assemble and finish products. Interns assist across departments by supporting research, sampling, and documentation. This collaborative approach ensures that each product reflects both craftsmanship and design intent.



SHEWORKs operates as a closely connected and collaborative team, where communication and mutual respect form the foundation of daily work. Rather than functioning as isolated departments, the studio works as an interconnected space in which each role supports the other. Designers, supervisors, artisans, pattern cutters, and sewing staff regularly exchange ideas and feedback to ensure that every product maintains its quality and cultural integrity.



The slow fashion approach allows the team to work at a thoughtful pace, prioritizing craftsmanship over speed. Decisions are discussed collectively, whether related to design adjustments, motif placement, or material selection. Supervisors and the brand head play a key role in coordinating tasks, guiding artisans, and encouraging teamwork and problem-solving.



Interns are included as part of the workflow and are given opportunities to observe, assist, and learn from experienced staff. This cooperative environment creates a sense of shared responsibility, where each handcrafted piece reflects the combined effort, skill, and dedication of the entire team.



SHEWORKs positions itself as a slow fashion and heritage-based brand that values craftsmanship, sustainability, and cultural preservation. Rather than competing with mass-produced fashion, the company operates within a niche market that prioritizes quality over quantity. Its focus on handmade techniques, heritage embroidery, and thoughtful design places the brand within the ethical and artisanal fashion sector. By transforming traditional Pakistani textile practices into contemporary products, SHEWORKs makes heritage relevant to modern lifestyles. Its limited production approach enhances exclusivity and authenticity, appealing to customers who seek meaningful, long-lasting pieces rather than fast fashion trends. Through ethical labor practices, sustainability, and cultural storytelling, the brand represents responsible and conscious design.



SHEWORKs’ customers are individuals who appreciate handcrafted products, cultural heritage, and ethical fashion practices. The brand primarily appeals to women who value unique, thoughtfully designed clothing and home décor items that reflect tradition and craftsmanship. Customers often seek products with cultural meaning, such as heritage-inspired garments, embroidered cushions, footwear, and accessories. Many are environmentally conscious and prefer slow fashion brands that support sustainability and artisan communities. Overall, SHEWORKS caters to a niche audience that values authenticity, quality, and cultural identity over mass-market fashion trends.



Overall, my experience at SHEWORKs has provided valuable insight into how a slow fashion brand operates through teamwork, structure, and shared values. Observing the company’s workflow helped me understand how each department from design and pattern cutting to embroidery and sewing makes meaningful contributions to the final product. The supportive role of interns within this structure highlighted the importance of research, documentation, and careful preparation in product development. I also gained a deeper appreciation for heritage-based craftsmanship and the effort required to preserve traditional textile techniques in a contemporary market. SHEWORKs’ commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and cultural storytelling reflects a thoughtful approach to fashion that prioritizes quality, authenticity, and collaboration. This experience has strengthened my understanding of the fashion and textile industry and encouraged me to value slow, responsible, and meaningful design practices in my future work.