Ghada Al Subaey and Wadha Al Hajri: Forbes Fashion Innovators

غادة السبيعي ووضحى الهاجري على قائمة فوربس للمبدعين العرب في قطاع الأزياء

WGO

Two Qatari female designers, Ghada Al Subaey and Wadha Al Hajri, have been recognized by Forbes in its inaugural list titled “The Middle East’s Fashion Innovators.” This list celebrates 40 of the region’s most influential fashion designers who incorporate Arab heritage and culture into global fashion.

Ghada Al Subaey:

Founder of 1309 Studios (est. 2015)

• Renowned for minimalist ready-to-wear fashion.
• Offers abayas, diverse clothing, kaftans, and accessories.

Founder of The Cutting Studio:

• A fashion consulting and garment production studio in Qatar.
• Supports emerging designers at the M7 Arts Center in Doha.

Early Career:

• Co-founded first brand, K, with sisters in 2012 (later shut down).
• Launched 1309 Studio in 2015, named after mother’s birthday.
• Became sole founder and CEO in 2018.

Philosophy and Focus:

• Emphasizes continual learning and growth.
• Develops ready-to-wear women’s lifestyle products for contemporary, modest women.

Guidance:

• Operates under the guidance of H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

Wadha Al Hajri:

Founder of ‘Wadha’ (est. 2010)

• Gained attention showcasing at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art in 2013.
• Featured at Milan’s Palazzo Morando as part of Vogue Talents.

Brand Expansion:

• House of Wadha:
  • • An artistic living space in Msheireb, Doha, embodying brand’s aesthetic principles.
• Wadha Fragrances and Wadha Bags:
  • • Luxury perfumes and women’s bags.

Design Inspiration:

• Deeply inspired by Islamic art and architecture.
• Known for geometric hand embroideries and latticework.