Our Journey and Tradition
OUR HANIMEFENDI
I named this creation HANIMEFENDI (Gentlewoman). The aim was to create a couture piece that merges the masculine and the feminine. As gender equality is still a constant topic in all cultures around the globe. I wanted to express in my work that in every human being there is a masculine and feminine side. Therefore, I want to rise awareness concerning this reality. Also in Turkish culture "Hanım" stands for a valued and respected women and "Efendi" stands for a gentle'man. Both combined stands for balance and represents the ultimate status I want to achieve as a designer.
Further, the history of the Boyabat Motif goes back to the 17th century. Back then the locals have woven their fate with knots. All pain and happiness was expressed with textiles. The colors were arranged in a symmetric order. Pink was suitable for girls and red became the color of enthusiasm. Blue, orange and white color became an expression of feelings and hope for a better future. The beauty of this textile expresses the rich imagination of the people from the Black Sea region.
All materials I have used are made in Turkey and are %100 sustainable, produced in small amounts and at small family owned businesses. The "Hanımefendi" outfit consists of organic silk, cotton and linen also all used beads are upcycled and embroidered.