This month, we dedicate our issue to fashion and, to expand the subject locally, we spoke to Ghada Al Subaey, founder and designer of 1309 Studios. Learn more about this innovative brand and its well-established roots.
Qatar is home to many brands in various fields that have grown beyond the country’s borders, expanding to the entire Middle East and ultimately conquering the world. When it comes to creative areas such as fashion, there are many labels standing out, one of them being 1309 Studios. We spoke to Ghada Al Subaey to learn more about her venture.
According to the designer, the meaning behind the brand’s name refers to her mother’s birthday date, which falls on September 13. “She has always been my inspiration and a constant source of support through life’s challenges, which forms the foundation of support and encouragement within our brand’s community,” says Ghada. “She shaped my journey into the fashion world, as I learned about textiles and stitching techniques and developed my fashion sense while watching her work. As a teenager, I began exploring my personal style, eventually leading me to create 1309 Studios.”
When asked about the brand’s core values, Ghada says they are centred on inspiration, sustainability and storytelling, all embodied in unique prints. The motifs are inspired by the evolution and spirit of the 1309 woman, who serves as a muse for innovative designs.
The commitment to sustainability can be seen in the choice of fabrics and design approaches, aligning with their values on environmental consciousness. “Our style and aesthetics propose a blend of modern innovation with traditional elegance, prioritising quality craftsmanship, timeless designs and eco-conscious practices to create beautiful and meaningful pieces, resonating with customers who value style and ethical considerations in fashion,” she adds.
On the subject of sustainability, the eco-friendly aspect is not just a trend but a fundamental ethos that shapes the brand. It starts by using ethical, natural and vegan materials, opting for biodegradable packaging and giving new life to scrap fabric by transforming it into furniture. Production happens in Qatar, emphasising human skills over machinery, reducing the environmental footprint and avoiding mass material purchases. The brand also focuses on creating timeless garments through good tailoring, aligning sustainability with creativity and quality craftsmanship.
The inspiration for the collections comes mostly from Qatar’s modern landscape and vibrant culture, incorporating futuristic approaches with traditional notes. “The juxtaposition of tradition and modernity in art, culture and society resonates with 1309 Studios’ ethos. Moreover, I draw inspiration from retro-futurism and contemporary bohemian aesthetics, blending nostalgia with innovation,” says Ghada, adding: “I believe a delicate balance between tradition and innovation is ideal in preserving our brand’s heritage while adapting to the ever-changing fashion landscape.”
Starting a company is never an easy task, mainly in the fashion sector; there are many elements to take into consideration. For Ghada, it requires a blend of creativity, cultural awareness and strategic planning. Especially in Qatar, one must begin by understanding and respecting the country’s traditions and aesthetics, incorporating elements that resonate with the local culture into their designs. A strong focus on using high-quality fabrics suitable for the climate and prioritising sustainability in production appeals to environmentally conscious consumers.
“In this journey since 2015, I take great pride in the evolution of 1309’s brand identity and recognition. I highlight our ability to create designs that empower and support women by allowing them to express themselves, grow confident and embrace their unique identities. While staying true to our values, we are constantly pushing fashion boundaries by employing new techniques and creating unique concepts,” says the designer. Additionally, she is proud that the brand is forging a path towards a more sustainable future, where women’s empowerment and positive change are intrinsically linked pursuits, each strengthening the other.
There’s a noticeable surge in Middle Eastern fashion brands gaining international attention, showcasing the region’s creativity and innovation. In Qatar specifically, homegrown brands are making significant strides, leveraging local talent, cultural heritage and global perspectives to create unique and creative offerings. “These brands are not only redefining traditional attire but also contributing to the global fashion discourse, adding layers of diversity and richness to the industry. As Qatar continues to nurture its fashion ecosystem, we can expect to see even more brands making a mark on the international stage, further enriching the global fashion landscape,” says Ghada.
When asked what she likes most about Qatar, she says it’s the harmonious coexistence of historical landscapes and cutting-edge innovation that creates an enchanting atmosphere where the past gracefully intertwines with the present. Without a doubt, one of the country’s strengths, which has helped forge the path for the exciting fashion scene built in the past years.