For her ninth season, Turkish designer Zeynep Kartal took her show from the usual residence Freemason’s Hall to the Turkish Embassy. With her ‘Constance’ collection, inspired by the legendary 1920s florist Constance Spry, Kartal conjures up the glitz and glamour of the era with embellished antique-rose motifs,, glossy satin, intricate silk lace in a delightful palette of chalk pink, rust, amethyst, deep emerald and pea green.
While there is a strong vintage feel, the collection proves an inspired blend of retro and modern, classic and dynamic, couture inspired silhouettes and ’20s flapper dresses, opulent evening wear, sleek satin, playful ruffles, sumptuous velvet, sheer chiffon, silk fringes toughened up with clean tailoring, sharp tuxedos, black leather and colourful furs.
The Autumn/Winter 2017 Kartal woman is a flapper femme fatale – both feminine and tough all at once.
Kartal’s show was preceded by a photography exhibition dedicated to the brave people of Turkey and the 251 martyrs who laid down their lives in defence of the country during the 15th July coup attempt. Kartal also highlighted the significance of the date with two looks – a red dress with 251 carnations symbolising the martyrs worn by Cherelle Patterson, former Miss Jamaica UK, and a black long gown with images taken on the night of the coup worn by footballer Djibril Cisse’s ex-wife Jude Cisse.
Photos and video: Mikey San
