Rebeccah Pailes-Friedman, a distinguished industrial designer, author, researcher, and professor of Industrial Design at Pratt Institute, stands at the forefront of groundbreaking advancements in the world of wearable technology and smart textiles. As the founder and principal designer of Interwoven Design Group, based in Brooklyn, NY, she has successfully carved a niche for her company, specializing in the seamless integration of hard goods and soft goods to create comfortable, innovative solutions that bridge the realms of fashion, engineering, materials science, and product design.
Interwoven Design Group’s expertise lies in offering comprehensive services ranging from strategy and design to prototyping and sourcing. The company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology is evident in its recent launch of a line of adaptive lingerie designed to be easily donned with one hand—a testament to Rebeccah’s dedication to both style and function. With a focus on serving as a brand’s secret weapon, Interwoven Design Group thrives on taking on projects that require extensive research and development, delivering products that seamlessly blend function, style, and innovation. Rebeccah’s journey into a leadership role in the business world was fueled by a desire to address a critical gap in the corporate cycle—deep research and development. Having witnessed the constraints within the typical six-month design cycle, she recognized the need for a resource that could understand corporate needs, advise on product placement and marketing, and develop new technologies and approaches that extended beyond conventional timelines. Her empathetic understanding of users and their experiences became the driving force behind her mission to improve lives through innovative design solutions.
Rebeccah’s career has not been without its challenges. While serving as the design director at Champion, she faced resistance in championing a seemingly generic white performance Polo tennis shirt. Undeterred, she persisted, ultimately securing a 500-unit, 3-store test that proved to be a massive success, becoming the brand’s best-selling style. This experience underscores Rebeccah’s tenacity and the strength required to stand by one’s convictions in the face of skepticism. In Rebeccah’s view, women leaders bring a unique set of qualities to the table, fostering innovation and positive change. Their heightened empathy and emotional intelligence enable them to connect deeply with team members and create inclusive environments where diverse voices are heard. Women’s collaborative skills, resilience, and adaptability contribute to a leadership style that encourages open communication, creativity, and the exchange of ideas. It is these qualities that Rebeccah believes drive innovation and positive transformation in the ever-evolving landscape of business and design.
Rebeccah Pailes-Friedman, a trailblazer in the realm of industrial design and wearable technology, is not just shaping the future of innovation but is also dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion within her organization. As the founder of Interwoven Design Group, she envisioned a predominantly female-led and driven industrial design firm. Recognizing the need for products designed by and for women, Rebeccah’s commitment to inclusivity has evolved with the firm’s growth, embracing individuals from diverse cultures, genders, and backgrounds. Interwoven Design Group’s commitment to diversity is not only reflected in its leadership but also in its recruitment practices. Leveraging the power of social media, particularly Instagram, the firm provides a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the studio’s life. This strategy not only showcases the exciting work happening within the organization but also serves as a platform to attract talent from various walks of life. The emphasis on diverse perspectives ensures a rich tapestry of experiences and ideas within the team.
Rebeccah, with her wealth of experience, offers invaluable advice to young women aspiring to leadership roles and business innovation. Emphasizing the importance of embracing one’s unique perspective, building a strong support network, and facing challenges fearlessly, she encourages women to recognize their strengths and navigate their career paths with confidence. Rebeccah’s approach to creating a supportive environment for women in the workplace is rooted in both cultural and structural changes. Fostering an inclusive culture, providing growth opportunities, promoting work-life balance and flexibility, and leading by example are integral components. Her decision to implement a four-day work week not only provides flexibility but also demonstrates a commitment to accommodating diverse needs, a testament to her dedication to creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
Balancing Professional and Personal Life
Acknowledging the perpetual juggling act that is balancing professional and personal life, Rebeccah emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing tasks. As a leader who actively promotes work-life balance, she believes that achieving this equilibrium is not only possible but crucial for personal well-being and professional success. While challenges persist due to societal expectations, she advocates for continuous adaptation and growth, emphasizing that with determination and a supportive environment, women in leadership roles can achieve a fulfilling balance. Rebeccah Pailes-Friedman stands as a beacon, not only innovating in her field but also inspiring the next generation of diverse leaders. As Rebeccah Pailes-Friedman continues to make waves in the realms of industrial design and wearable technology, her commitment to promoting diversity, gender equality, and innovation remains unwavering. In addressing the barriers that limit women’s entry into traditionally male-dominated industries, Rebeccah advocates for systemic changes that create inclusive pathways for opportunities.
To encourage more women to join traditionally male-dominated industries, Rebeccah emphasizes the importance of early exposure to STEAM subjects, hands-on learning experiences, and mentorship programs. Establishing support networks that connect aspiring women professionals with experienced leaders is key to overcoming challenges. Rebeccah’s personal initiative, the Design History feature on social media, celebrates the achievements of women designers throughout history, challenging stereotypes and fostering a culture of respect. Rebeccah highlights the HeroWear Apex suit as a testament to the power of gender diversity in driving innovation. By involving perspectives from both men and women in the design and development process, the collaboration resulted in a groundbreaking product that caters to the diverse needs and body shapes of users. The inclusive approach not only enhanced the suit’s ergonomic design but also expanded its versatility, setting a new standard for inclusivity in wearable technology.
Looking ahead to the next decade, Rebeccah envisions a transformative shift in the business world—a shift towards genuine inclusivity and empowerment. Her hope is for a culture where designers of all genders are celebrated for their unique contributions, fostering an environment where creativity knows no bounds. This vision transcends moral imperatives; it’s a strategic move towards innovation and progress. Rebeccah emphasizes the importance of networking for women in leadership, offering practical tips for effective networking. Being authentic, seeking diverse connections, taking a proactive approach, and adding value to others are crucial aspects of successful networking. She encourages women to attend events, join organizations, and approach networking as a two-way street, building meaningful relationships based on trust and support.
Rebeccah sees the support for women in power as an extension of broader strategies for supporting women in general. Cultivating inclusive leadership, providing mentorship and sponsorship, investing in education and skill development, and celebrating women’s achievements are essential components. Creating environments where women can thrive requires a holistic approach that addresses systemic barriers and promotes a culture of equality, ultimately fostering change and driving innovation.
