Asian Bohemian Chic: Indonesian Heritage Becomes Fashion

Born in Rotterdam and educated in Europe, Ghea is one of Indonesia's most famous fashion designers, renowned for having promoted a renaissance in Indonesia's ethnic textile tradition. After graduating from a fashion college in London, she returned to her country and established her fashion-design studio in 1980, and she has since opened several ateliers and boutiques in Jakarta. Her mission: to develop, celebrate, and promote her country's fashion heritage. Her textiles make strong use of folklore, including the Jumputan tie-dyed fabrics (the Pelangi Palembang) that have become her hallmark.

A role model for women, entrepreneurs, designers, and visionary people, Ghea went international early in her career. Since her very first forays into fashion, Ghea has been instrumental in establishing the association of fashion designers (IPMI) in her country for the professionalization of fashion design. Ghea has given Indonesian fashion worldwide attention, showcasing her collections in Paris, Cannes, Marrakech, Kuala Lumpur, London, and Milan. Her shows have been attended by international celebrities, and she has often been featured in major fashion magazines, like Harper's Bazaar and Prestige Indonesia.