Studio 189, co-founded by Abrima Erwiah and actress Rosario Dawson, is a fashion social enterprise that has been instrumental in transforming the fashion industry through its commitment to sustainability, African craftsmanship, and social change. The brand, established in 2013, operates between Accra, Ghana, and New York City, producing African and African-inspired clothing and content.
Abrima Erwiah’s journey into fashion and social entrepreneurship is deeply rooted in her extensive experience in the luxury fashion industry. Before co-founding Studio 189, Erwiah worked as a global marketing and communications executive at Bottega Veneta, a position that provided her with a profound understanding of the fashion world’s inner workings. This experience equipped her with the skills and insights necessary to navigate and eventually disrupt the traditional fashion landscape.
Studio 189’s innovative approach lies in its fusion of traditional African craftsmanship with contemporary design. The brand collaborates with local artisans skilled in techniques such as natural plant-based dyeing, hand-batik, and kente weaving, ensuring that each piece embodies authentic African heritage. By integrating these traditional methods into modern fashion, Studio 189 not only preserves cultural practices but also introduces them to a global audience.
The brand’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of eco-friendly materials and processes.
Studio 189’s collections often feature natural dyes and organic fabrics, minimizing environmental impact and promoting ethical fashion practices. This dedication to sustainability has positioned the brand as a leader in the movement towards more responsible fashion consumption.
Since its inception, Studio 189 has garnered significant recognition within the fashion industry. In 2018, the brand won the prestigious CFDA + Lexus Fashion Initiative for Sustainability, a testament to its commitment to ethical practices. Further cementing its status, Studio 189 became a CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Grant recipient, highlighting its influence and contribution to modern fashion.
The brand’s collections have been showcased at prominent fashion events, including New York Fashion Week, where their Spring/Summer 2024 collection, titled “Evolution: A Decade of Style & Sustainability,” marked their 10-year anniversary. This milestone collection celebrated the brand’s journey and its dedication to sustainable fashion.
Studio 189’s impact extends beyond fashion; it serves as a catalyst for social change. By providing employment opportunities to local artisans in Ghana, the brand empowers communities and stimulates economic growth. Their business model exemplifies how fashion can be a powerful tool for development, challenging the conventional boundaries of the industry.
The brand’s collaborations with various community-led projects in Africa and the USA further emphasize its commitment to social responsibility. Through these initiatives, Studio 189 addresses issues such as poverty, education, and women’s empowerment, aligning with their mission to use fashion as an agent of change.
Looking ahead, Studio 189 aims to continue its trajectory of blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary fashion while expanding its global reach. The brand envisions a fashion industry where sustainability and ethical practices are standard, not exceptions. By showcasing the richness of African artisanal skills on international platforms, Studio 189 aspires to reshape consumer perceptions and promote a more inclusive and conscious fashion landscape.
In reflecting on their journey, Erwiah emphasizes the importance of community and shared values in driving meaningful change. Through Studio 189, she demonstrates that fashion can be more than aesthetic expression; it can be a vehicle for cultural celebration, economic empowerment, and global connectivity.
In essence, Studio 189 stands as a testament to the transformative power of fashion when intertwined with purpose and passion. The brand’s innovative approach and unwavering commitment to social impact continue to inspire and pave the way for a more sustainable and equitable fashion industry.
