Founded in 2015, 1309 Studios has grown from a deeply personal vision into one of the region’s most distinctive contemporary fashion labels. Created by Ghada Al Subaey, the brand was born from a desire to redefine modest fashion as something expressive rather than restrictive, emotional rather than prescribed. From the beginning, 1309 Studios positioned itself as a space where cultural identity, modern design and female empowerment could coexist, offering women clothing that feels intentional, poetic and deeply connected to real life.
Built on fluid silhouettes, thoughtful construction and a strong sense of storytelling, the brand has developed a clear design language that blends femininity with quiet strength. Each collection reflects a balance between heritage and contemporary expression, where artistic references, cultural narratives and modern tailoring come together to create pieces designed for longevity rather than trends. Beyond aesthetics, 1309 Studios has also become known for its commitment to community, collaboration and purpose, working closely with regional artists and creatives while supporting the wider fashion ecosystem through initiatives such as The Cutting Studio, Qatar’s first premium garment manufacturing hub.
As modest fashion continues to evolve on both regional and global stages, 1309 Studios stands as a brand shaped by intention, cultural depth and clarity of vision. In this conversation, Ghada Al Subaey reflects on the origins of the brand, the evolution of its identity, the shifting narrative around modest fashion, and her ongoing mission to build something lasting that empowers women, nurtures creativity, and redefines how Middle Eastern fashion is experienced on the world stage.
1309 Studios has grown rapidly in a short space of time. Looking back, what was the original idea behind the brand, and what gap did you feel was missing in the market?
The original idea behind 1309 Studios was to create a brand that truly celebrates women in all their complexity. When I launched the brand in 2015, I felt there was a gap for modest fashion that felt expressive rather than restrictive, pieces that were modern, artistic, and emotionally driven. I wanted to merge contemporary design with cultural depth, offering clothing that feels effortless yet intentional, and that allows women to express both confidence and creativity.
Your personal passion for styling is very evident in the collections. How did your own relationship with fashion shape the aesthetic of 1309 Studios?
My relationship with fashion has always been very intuitive and emotional. For me, clothing is a form of storytelling. I’ve always gravitated towards pieces that feel fluid and feminine, but also strong. That balance has shaped the aesthetic of 1309 Studios; clean silhouettes, softness in movement, and designs that feel poetic but grounded. I design with real women in mind and how they move through their daily lives.
How would you describe the DNA of the brand today, and how has that identity evolved since launch?
The DNA of 1309 Studios today is rooted in femininity and cultural storytelling. While the core values have remained consistent, over time, we’ve become more confident in our language through bolder prints, refined tailoring, and deeper artistic collaborations.
The perception of modest fashion has shifted significantly in recent years. How do you think that narrative has changed, both regionally and globally?
Modest fashion is no longer viewed as niche or limiting. Regionally and globally, there’s a greater understanding that modesty can be progressive and creative. Women want clothing that aligns with their values without sacrificing individuality or style. I believe designers from the Middle East have played a big role in reshaping that narrative by bringing authenticity and artistry to the conversation.
What do you think sets 1309 Studios apart from other brands?
What sets 1309 Studios apart is the cultural depth behind every collection. We don’t follow trends for the sake of it, each piece is designed with intention and longevity in mind. Our collaborations with Arab artists and commitment to empowering women give the brand a sense of purpose beyond aesthetics.
Who is the 1309 woman today, and how has your understanding of your customer developed as the brand has grown?
The 1309 woman is confident, thoughtful, and expressive. She values ease and intention in her wardrobe and chooses pieces that feel true to her lifestyle. As the brand has grown, my understanding of her has deepened beyond style alone. I now design with a clearer sense of how she moves through her day, balances different roles, and uses clothing as a form of self-expression.
Your designs often feel versatile and intentional. How do you envision women styling your pieces in their everyday lives?
I design with versatility at the core. I imagine women wearing our pieces in ways that feel natural and personal, whether styled simply or layered with character. Each garment is meant to adapt to different moments of life and move effortlessly from one setting to another without losing its identity.
The Middle East has become a powerful fashion market. How important has the region been in shaping the growth and direction of 1309 Studios?
The Middle East has been incredibly important to 1309 Studios’ growth. Being based in Qatar and part of a rapidly evolving creative landscape has shaped the brand’s perspective and purpose. The region’s balance between heritage and modernity mirrors the brand’s essence and continues to inspire everything we create.
Can you tell us a little about The Cutting Studio and why it was important for you to launch this concept?
The Cutting Studio was launched to support and strengthen the local fashion ecosystem. It’s Qatar’s first premium garment manufacturing hub, created to provide designers with access to quality production, mentorship, and craftsmanship. For me, it was important to build something that extends beyond my own brand and contributes to the growth of the creative community.
What’s the biggest challenge you face as a creative and a business owner?
One of the biggest challenges is maintaining a strong creative vision while scaling a growing business, but it’s a balance I’ve learned to navigate with experience. I’ve become more intentional in my decision-making, trusting both intuition and structure. Challenges are part of the process, and I see them as opportunities to refine the brand and grow with clarity.
How do you stay grounded and connected to the brand’s original purpose as it continues to evolve?
I stay grounded by consistently returning to the brand’s purpose. Staying close to the creative process, listening to our community, and trusting my instincts helps ensure that 1309 Studios continues to grow without losing its essence.
Looking ahead, what would you still like to achieve with 1309 Studios?
I want to continue shaping how Middle Eastern fashion is perceived globally. My focus is on building something lasting that empowers women, supports creative talent, and proves that fashion can be both meaningful and enduring.
By Lindsay Judge
