The Bora Aksu SS18’s collection is inspired by Lady Mihri Mushik, a brave and extraordinary woman who gave up a privileged life to pursue a passion for art and a bohemian existence. Musfik returned to Turkey in 1913 to become the nation’s first contemporary female artist.
Aksu created garments that reflects Mufik’s life and aristocratic roots were intertwined with a bohemian existence, mirrored in the ‘kutnu’ fabric – a hand-woven textile woven in the hand looms of Gaziantep, South Turkey. The combination of soft feminine fabrics and structured shapes adds a romantic, but bold silhouette. Much of the detailing is directly inspired by Musfik’s early wardrobe, with a layering effect created by recurring embroidery in graphic lines and shapes
The composition of silk and cotton dates back to the sixtieth century and the fabric was the symbol of nobility and power in the Ottoman Empire. It was mainly used in the kaftans of sultans and emperors, while today, it’s produced by a small group of craftsmen determined to keep the tradition alive. This kutnu fabric is deployed throughout the collection in shades of deep red, pink, blue and dark navy, utilised alongside with silk organzas, cotton and silk habotais – a fabric first pioneered in Japan.
Overall, the Bora Aksu SS18 is a very cute, classic and elegant collection. There are some pieces that I really like, especially those pussy-bow blouses and dresses, the colour range and those shoes! So, congratulations to a wonderful collection! Looking forward to the next collection by Aksu.
Photos courtesy of SPRING LONDON
