Ioanna Kourbela
Ioanna Kourbela is an Athenian womenswear brand known for architectural knitwear, rooted in a family workshop opened in Plaka in 1971. Its fluid, polymorphic pieces are made from natural yarns and fabrics, many sourced in Greece.
| Origins | Family workshop in Plaka, 1971 |
|---|---|
| Creative director | Ioanna Kourbela (since 2003) |
| Headquarters | Athens, Greece |
| Speciality | Architectural knitwear |
| Reach | 28 countries |
| Website | kourbela.com |
What is Ioanna Kourbela?
Ioanna Kourbela is a Greek fashion brand from Athens. It grew out of a family enterprise that opened a workshop in the Plaka district in 1971 to sell hand-knitted garments. Ioanna Kourbela took over the creative direction in 2003.
Products and positioning
The brand is known for architectural knitwear with a feminine edge. Garments are built on fluid shapes that can be wrapped, twisted or draped in different ways, an approach the brand calls polymorphic chic. Alongside its statement pieces it offers comfortable basics.
Materials are central to the identity. Ioanna Kourbela works with natural yarns and fabrics, sourced from Greece where possible, including Greek-spun cotton and silk from Soufli, and was an early supporter of the sustainable fashion movement.
Distribution
The brand has flagship boutiques in Plaka, Athens, and sells online. Its collections are available in 28 countries.
Why it matters
Ioanna Kourbela shows how a family knitwear business can evolve into a design-led contemporary label, using local materials and versatile silhouettes to build an international following.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Ioanna Kourbela from?
Ioanna Kourbela is a Greek brand based in Athens, with flagship boutiques in Plaka.
What is Ioanna Kourbela known for?
It is known for fluid, architectural knitwear that can be worn in several ways, made from natural yarns.