As the fashion industry in the Middle East continues to develop, brands from across the region have been making headlines all over the world. From womenswear to menswear, our local brands are growing in popularity. 1309 Studios is a Qatar-based ready-to-wear label that presents collections inspired by, and in celebration of, women. The brand was established in 2015 and has been making strides ever since thanks to its contemporary, bohemian aesthetic.
Founded by Ghada Al Subaey, who is also the label’s creative director, 1309 Studios has a minimalist, feminine aesthetic at its core. Now, the brand has launched its latest collection, Eternal Unfolding, that introduces abayas as well as ready-to-wear pieces. The abaya itself is becoming a global fashion statement. Following Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Saudi Arabia, his wife, Georgina Rodriguez, has been spotted wearing an abaya, this is just one example of how the traditional garment, and the design possibilities around it, is increasingly gaining awareness around the world.
The Eternal Unfolding collection provides a new take on the abaya, giving the traditional item a modern, contemporary look. “When designing this collection, we were always seeking ways to be innovative in our designs, that would transform the way we look at how we wear abayas and how we style it,” the company said in a statement. “With 1309 Studio’s evolution, we have developed pieces that offer women various options to integrate and fit into their day-to-day essentials, including consistency pieces for all occasions.”
While traditional abayas are crafted from cotton, and sometimes silk, Ghada Al Subaey has been introducing new fabrics. At 1309 Studios, you’ll find pieces that you might mistake for a leather overcoat or a throw. Matching pieces include abayas, blouses and trousers to give your ready-to-wear look that extra bit of elevation. “We found new possibilities to think out of the ordinary in terms of fabrics and cuts, which we are known for. With the choice of using vivid colours and traditional embroidery, we struck a balance between boldness and simplicity,” said Al Subaey.
The brand also follows a sustainable approach. Informed by the need for social and environmental responsibility, since its inception 70% of the fabrics used are vegan, including vegan linen, vegan silk, and in its latest collection, vegan leather. Keeping with this environmental consciousness, the brand also uses biodegradable, and compostable packaging.
Ghada Al Subaey’s environmental and social efforts reach far beyond the materials she uses in the production of her clothing. In order to help uplift women, Al Subaey founded the 1309 Community, a safe space to develop and nurture a female community. The community is a place where women can come together to uplift and empower each other, both personally and professionally. The result is a safe space where women can speak up, seek support and enjoy a supportive environment.
With her latest collection, Subaey unites the contemporary with the traditional to create a new take on the abaya that can be styled both traditionally and with a modern twist.
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