Studio 189
Ghana
Studio 189 is a fashion label founded in 2013 by actress Rosario Dawson and Abrima Erwiah, with its clothing made in Ghana. It produces cotton and silk garments using hand-painting and hand-batik techniques with local artisans.
| Founded | 2013 |
|---|---|
| Founders | Rosario Dawson, Abrima Erwiah |
| Production | Ghana |
| Techniques | Hand-batik, hand-painting |
| Website | studiooneeightynine.com |
What is Studio 189?
Studio 189 is a socially focused fashion brand founded in 2013 by actress Rosario Dawson and Abrima Erwiah. Its pieces are made in Ghana with local artisans, and the label has shown seasonally at New York Fashion Week since 2018.
Products and positioning
The collections are wearable, city-appropriate garments in cotton and silk, built around bold prints, rich colour and versatile cuts, many of them unisex-friendly. Production relies on traditional hand-painting and hand-batik techniques carried out in Ghana.
Beyond the product, the brand runs programmes for job creation and skills training for local women, and it partners with the Ethical Fashion Initiative of the UN International Trade Centre.
Recognition
- CFDA and Lexus Sustainable Fashion Award winner, 2020
- Harlem's Fashion Row Icon 360 fund winner, 2020
- Africa-America Institute Entrepreneur Impact Award, 2018
- Design Miami Visionary Award, 2017
Distribution
Studio 189 sells through its own online shop, and it has collaborated with larger retailers on capsule projects.
Why it matters
Studio 189 shows how a contemporary label can tie West African artisanal production directly to an international fashion calendar, while treating social impact as part of the business model rather than an add-on.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded Studio 189?
Studio 189 was founded in 2013 by actress Rosario Dawson and Abrima Erwiah.
Where is Studio 189 clothing made?
Its clothing is made in Ghana with local artisans using hand-painting and hand-batik techniques.