Dilek Hanif haute couture SS 2012

Straight from the heart of Istanbul’s Fashion district, Nisantasi, Dilek Hanif has put together, for our greatest pleasure another stunning collection. Ever since she founded her brand in the nineties, Dilek has grown to be a major player in the Turkish fashion world, earning the likes and attention of many, including the country’s First Lady, Hayrünnisa Gül. Not only is she the first Turk to have made the Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week, she has also been awarded the “Most Successful Female Designer” Award by Avon in 2004.

This season, the designer/entrepreneur strikes us again with her S/S 12′ collection. Although her A/W 11-12 only explored black and gold shades, it seems Spring has allowed  the intrusion of pastel into Dilek Hanif’s world. Elegance, allure, timelessness and modernity best describe her work.

Using silk, lace, organza and even chiffon and by mastering embroidery to perfection, she manages to capture the true essence of femininity. Deep cuts and sensual silk bodies delicately unveil skin without departing from elegance. Her long evening gowns redefine women’s curves in a very natural yet sensual manner. By playing with transparency and transforming embroidery into a tattoo-esque second skin, Dilek’s classic cuts clearly grasp today’s modernity.

Throughout her work and show, a constant Ottoman spirit is felt. Istanbul’s strategic location is also recalled in her garments as Hanif excels in bringing together the best of both, the Eastern and Western world. Her origins are a true inspiration and throughout the years, she has become a true emblem of modern Turkey all over the world.