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Style & Design

UJ at London Fashion Week February '09

Originally published on Tuesday, 24th February 2009

Bora Aksu

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Turkish born Bora Aksu graduated with a distinction from the notorious Central Saint Martins MA program, and has won the Topshop New Gen Award four times. As he gets ready to present his A/W 09 collection at On/Off, UJ puts him to the designer Q&A.

Describe your style in three words.
Tomboys, couture with an edge, intricacy.

What are the inspirations behind your collection for On|Off?
60s couture, Nomads and Victorian intricate tailoring.

What do you love about showing in London and how would you say it differentiates itself from other fashion capitals?
In London anything or anyone can be an inspiration to me. It’s usually a big pot of ideas. There’s this ethnic quality, mixed with a spiritual vibe.
London is always going to be different as its individuality and love of the will never die down; it always stays fresh which is the main difference with other fashion capitals.

How do you think the fashion industry will hold up in the current economic climate?

The economic climate, of course affects fashion, but cultural or social changes also have a huge impact. I think fashion does not have the same dictating power as in previous decades. It’s moving more and more towards individual fashion rather than trends dictating fashion. This is totally to do with how people have changed their approach towards the way they dress, and the desire to be different. I believe that fashion always challenges changes in the world. There is a hidden rebel in it.

What is your best kept fashion secret?

My work place is my hidden cocoon and it’s very personal. The workshop is like the kitchen of a restaurant. It’s the actual reality and it’s where all the ideas take place. The workshop needs to have the characteristics of the designer.

What is one lesson you’re grateful to have learnt in your career?
The best lesson is to know who you actually are as a designer. Knowing your true design identity and being loyal to it is something essential through your fashion path.

One thing you wish more people knew about you?
That I love illustrating.

Career Highlight so far?
Winning Top Shop New Generation Award four times and 7 Selfridges main windows for seven seasons.

What’s the first thing you’re going to do when Fashion Week is over?
Sleep for 20 hours and eat comfort food.

What does the future hold?
Great things.

Bora Aksu Website

by MaM

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