In Conversation with Sakshi Awal
Tell us about your background:
Driven by my passion for circular fashion, I founded INTGR, an innovation-focused, plastic-free accessories brand. Alongside this, I collaborate with brands on the design and development of their collections. I love nerding out on how design evolves through finishing and construction- those final details that transform an idea into a product that feels truly refined.
Before launching INTGR, I spent a decade designing for brands in New York and Berlin. I began my career at Theory, where, over six years there, I designed across woven and knit categories with a focus on tailoring and outerwear. I developed a sharp eye for fabric selection, precision in fit, and innovation in seamless knits, bonded fabrics, and 3D pattern work, always balancing creativity with commercial relevance.
During COVID, I moved to Berlin, where I broadened my perspective. At SLY010, I led design and development for ready-to-wear collections across knitwear, leather, denim, and outerwear, managing concept through production. I also began freelancing for emerging start-ups, deepening my interest in sustainability.
Later, as Senior Designer and Product Developer at The Slow Label, I led sustainability-focused seasonless collections I managed sourcing, vendor partnerships, and transitioned the brand from a DTC into a wholesale model. Working within a small team and in close collaboration with the founder, I gained deep exposure to the business side of fashion- learning firsthand about marketing, strategy, planning, and how to align creative direction with long-term growth. These experiences reinforced how design, development, and strategy work best when fully integrated.
In recent years, I’ve built a freelance practice, supporting teams midstream or guiding a collection from idea to final sample. This adaptability has let me work across diverse categories, aesthetics, and team sizes.
Founding INTGR in March 2025 allowed me to go deeper into material R&D, circularity, and supply chain transparency. Using plant-based, plastic-free materials like MIRUM®️, I’ve learned to connect design with strategy, operations, and storytelling- thinking not just as a designer but as a founder.
Across every role, my focus has stayed the same: thoughtful design that balances beauty with utility, creativity with responsibility. Fashion should serve both the wearer and the world it lives in.
I’m currently growing INTGR while consulting with brands I admire. Joining Co-lab would be a chance to share this journey, connect with others- whether like-minded or not—and keep building something meaningful together.
Best career advice you've ever received?
You don't ask, you don't get.
What leadership qualities are important to you?
For me, leadership means clear communication and creating cohesion. The best work happens when people feel aligned and part of the process.
What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far?
Networking.
What are your top networking tips for building strong connections in your industry?
Networking is about building genuine relationships. Being curious, listening, supporting others.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sakshi-awal-00856219/
Website: https://intgrstudios.com/
Instagram: @s.a.k.s.h.i.a.w.a.l
