How Nackiye Elevated Turkish Fashion Globally: A Self-Made Brand Inspired by Istanbul

The city of Istanbul is a wonderful mix of cultures and, while it attracts many tourists, it is not considered a center of Turkish Fashion Brand. Nevertheless, Ankara as a capital city with a typically Mediterranean climate, famous for food, and history, has a deep impact on local designers aspiring to compete on the international level but repeat the traditions at the same time. Among them, there is a brand under the name Nackiye, which belongs to two sisters, Basak and Defne Kocabiyikoglu. Establishing a successful relationship between tradition and modern trends has been the key to growth for Nackiye within the fashion industry especially within Istanbul.

Inspired by Istanbul’s Heritage

The Nackiye is a Turkish Fashion Brand founded in 2019 by the sisters Basak and Defne Kocabiyikoglu. Both Ozbilen and Aytac have ancestors from Turkey and seeing the brand helping Turkish families financially, they were motivated to establish a brand that reflects Turkey. Its origin involves family significance since Nackiye is the great-grandmother’s name, as well as a tribute to the strong women in the lives of these girls. The founders have always identified with Istanbul although they used to visit the Aegean coast often during their childhood. This contrast of the bustle of the city and the quiet lifestyle by the sea lay at the heart of their design concept. The initial collection used exclusively rich fabrics, perfect stitching, and classical prints that immediately garnered interest from leading retailers and fashion enthusiasts globally.

Istanbul’s Influence on Nackiye’s Style

Istanbul’s vibrant landscapes and chaotic charm are central to Nackiye’s aesthetic. During a recent trip to Hong Kong, Basak described how the city’s sights, sounds, and scents serve as continuous inspiration.

Each Nackiye piece is infused with the essence of Istanbul, from its intricate architecture to its lively markets. Defne highlighted how Istanbul’s blend of old and new is mirrored in its designs through raw edges and deconstructed details. 

Overcoming Challenges in the Global Fashion Industry

Building a self-made brand like Nackiye has come with significant challenges. Unlike American or British fashion brands, which benefit from organizations like the CFDA or the British Fashion Council, Nackiye had to navigate the fashion industry without institutional backing. The sisters funded their first collection themselves, relying on their savings and taking on additional jobs to support their vision. Their unique perspective, shaped by childhood memories of Istanbul and the Aegean coast, differentiated their brand in a crowded market. Despite the lack of formal support, Nackiye’s designs caught the eye of international buyers. Including Net-a-Porter and Bergdorf Goodman, proving that authenticity and creativity could overcome resource limitations.

Empowering Women Through Fashion

The advancement of Nackiye is associated with the main theme of women’s empowerment and the downfall of adversity. Both Basak and Defne were raised by women from their families who struggled to manage work and family roles at the same time. This spirit of womanhood runs in the designers’ veins, as they design clothing to empower women and let each lady feel unique. All items are made to fit the woman and enable her to make the right choices; from a blouse that can be worn during the day to a classy dress that brings out the confidence in a woman.

Nackiye’s attitude toward fashion is rather innocent but at the same time serious. It reflects the modern tendencies of the present-day women’s movement at the same time. It responds to the experiences of past generations. The founders also think that the clothes must help women to feel as sensual and strong as possible. Whether she is strolling the streets of Istanbul or walking the show in New York.

Blending Tradition and Modernity

Nackiye’s aesthetic blends Turkey’s rich traditions with modern fashion trends, creating a distinctive style that resonates globally. The collections are based on the legendary Turkish folklore, for example on the Mevlevi dervish and their whirling dance. This cultural motif is incorporated into modern designs such as circle skirts. Because of the dancing motions of the dervishes but equally trendy in today’s fashion. However, it is still possible to define the functionality of the designs for the modern city that creates the interest of a wide spectrum of the population starting from the young bloggers and ending with film stars or business people.. The materials, sewing, and beads in Nackiye’s collection are priceless Turkish crafts that give each clothing item an artistic value.

Nackiye’s Impact on the Global Stage

Despite the challenges, Nackiye has successfully carved out a space for Turkish Fashion Brand on the global stage. These Mediterranean-inspired designs have endeared them to fashion critics, buyers, and amateur magazines alike. Its focus on remaining genuine in its approach while experimenting with finding new definitions of Turkey’s fashion has been its strength. Nackiye’s pieces have been featured in high-end boutiques and online platforms, attracting customers who value luxury with a cultural story.

The founders remain focused on expanding their brand’s reach while staying true to their roots. Seeing Nackiye as a bridge between traditional Turkish elements and contemporary fashion. As the brand continues to grow, Basak and Defne aim to further elevate Turkey’s presence in the global fashion scene through their innovative designs and commitment to heritage.

Conclusion

Nackiye is an embodiment of life in Istanbul and the culture of Turkey. These pioneer stories manifested in Basak and Defne Kocabiyikoglu’s passion for the brand and willingness to promote Turkey’s beauty to the world. The case of Nackiye visualizes the ability of Turkish Fashion Brand and its possibilities in the ever-evolving world. Showing that even a small brand with a clear vision can change the world. As Nackiye continues to grow, it remains a symbol of Turkey’s artistic spirit and the power of self-made creativity.

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