What does Istanbul fashion mean to you?
“Istanbul is one of the largest metropolitan cities in the world, which contains millions of stories. For this reason, it becomes difficult to say only this or that when Istanbul fashion is mentioned. We all have a different perspective and a different journey in this city. For me, Istanbul fashion means a feast created by the blending of different cultures that include the Byzantine, Ottoman and Turkish Republic.

The fact all four seasons are experienced together is a great advantage for a colour-loving designer like me. Every season, the city surprises you with different colours and textures. In short, Istanbul Fashion is like an endless guide for me.”

What stories do you hope to tell through your work?
“While telling my collection stories, I always try to be inspired by human-based things from our past, present or possible future. Sometimes a character in the book I’m reading can guide my collection, sometimes it’s a house I come across while walking. Every story directs us to be on that journey, which pushes us to reach different people in each collection – to be influenced by them and to write different stories together. For example, IMBAT, my spring-summer collection, tells the story of my childhood when I was living in the Aegean Region, its culture, colourful streets and adorable people.”

How would you define your design ethos?
“We stepped into the industry to offer elegance and originality of design as an alternative to streetwear. Based on the colours and life of the city, we offer an affordable design luxury that carries the spirit of urban youth. Although the brand is categorised as a men’s fashion clothing brand, we call ourselves genderless in patterns, colours, lines and cuts. In addition, we do not use any leather and fur products, and in this way we are trying to strive for animal rights.

Can you outline your ambitions for the future?
“I founded my brand in 2017. When I look back on the past four years, I think I have taken my steps well and I am on the right path. This year, with my SS22 collection, I took part in Fashion Scout, which was held as part of the London Fashion Week, which was is my first experience abroad. My main goal is to advance in the foreign market like Northern Europe and Asia. Collaborations are also very important and for this reason, I plan to continue our collaborations with companies from different disciplines. Although there is a little more time for this, I definitely aim to represent my country and Turkish Design in a global contest.”

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