CREATING INTERNATIONAL AWARENESS IN FASHION DESIGN

Abstract

Milan, Paris, New York and London are the first capitals of fashion design that spring tomind. Individuals and companies in the fashion industry closely follow the trainings, fashion weeks, fashion shows and brands launched in these cities. Fashion design has an undeniable connection with cultural diversity. As the diversity spans, the inspirational sources become more generous as well. Istanbul, having been the imperial capital city that embraced civilizations, has a great potential to inspire fashion design with its historical, cultural and artistic heritage. Although having such a deep-rooted culture and natural beauty, the reasons for Istanbul not being under the spotlights of the international fashion design arena needs to be dwelled on and an awareness should be raised. 

The aim of this study is to raise awareness by drawing attention to the cultural and historical heritage of Istanbul that has the potential of nurturing fashion design.For this purpose, the history and the current state of the city will be discussed with both its potential of contribution to fashion design and the inspirational elements of this rich cultural heritage, namely; art, music, architecture, cinema and tourism in order to  establish a world-wide introduction of the broad aspects of the topic.

This study is thought  to be instrumental in contributing the Istanbul’s name to be expressed among the top capitals of international fashion arena.  

Keywords: İstanbul, Fashion Design, Culture, Art