SETTING THE STAGE

Qatari designer Ghada AI Subaey, Founder and CEO of 1309 Studios and The Cutting Studio, is continuing to evolve her brand through storytelling for the modern modest woman. At the same time, she's supporting Qatar's ambitions to become internationally recognized for its fashion industry.

- CLAUDINE COLETTI

In June 2024, Ghada AI Subaey, Founder of 1309 Studios and The Cutting Studio, took part in the M7 London Designer Showcase, a new initiative that aims to spotlight Qatarbased designers on the international stage under the patronage of Chairperson of Qatar Museums, Sheikha Al-Mayassa bint Hamad Al-Thani. Comprising of meetings with local press and buyers and intensive mentorship sessions, the event showcased the immense talent being fostered within the small peninsula-something AI Subaey hopes will lay the foundation for future recognition. "As a country, our fashion footprint on a global scale is expanding," she stresses. "Strengthening our narrative requires support, and we're swiftly addressing any gaps to advance us in the right direction."

As the founder and CEO of the 1309 Studios brand, AI Subaey has been designing high-quality modern modest wear and running her own businesses for over 12 years. As the founder of The Cutting Studio, a fashion consulting and premium garment manufacturing service provider based at the M7 art center in Doha-the first studio of its kind in the country-she is also well-versed in creating mentorship for other budding designers and players in the country's burgeoning fashion scene. Still, the M7 initiative is part of a continuous learning curve. "I believe knowledge is key to achieving success and prosperity. That being said, I am always on the lookout for opportunities to learn and grow," she adds.