Bora Aksu 2026 Spring…
An Invitation to Dance
Every seam invites closer study.
Romantic tendrils meet modern edge. / gliss•studio / @bora_aksu
This collection is like an invitation to dance, but for the eyes.
Models walk, eyes will wander—but here, there's endless detail to savor.
Bora Aksu, a London-based designer from Turkey, is known for romantic, cross-cultural designs that carry the weight of memory. He grew up surrounded by strong creative women who passed down the needlework and crochet that define his aesthetic, a tribute to his upbringing layered with Victorian romanticism from his London training.
His commitment to sustainability shines through upcycling past fabrics, using deadstock materials, and championing artisanal Turkish crafts to reduce waste and preserve heritage.
In his 2026 Spring ready-to-wear collection, every detail becomes an invitation to look closer.
A modern juxtaposition: sequins and paillettes interrupt his typical language of lace and ruffles. Though plastic-based and disappointing materially, their charm-like quality creates festive movement I keep returning to.
Floral motifs layer throughout. Another pattern emerges: asymmetrical draping against razor-straight horizontal lines. Tiered versus draped. The hyper-structured lives alongside the super romantic.
Some of my favorites from the collection:
Look 12: A sequined collared shirt with gold shoes continues the shimmer from eye level to foot and back. The sequins shine through sheer tulle, dazzling with light-catching dimension.
Look 17: A provocative departure from doll-themed innocence. Sheer organza with transparent hip panels. Intricate and fragile beading morphs into billowing plissé layers with navy and black crochet adding subtle dimension. Elegantly sexy.
Look 21: Asymmetry in structure and color creates whimsical romance. Movement within high structure, playing between the delicate and the bold. Sangria red and burgundy melt at the seams, drawing eyes across a woman's most alluring lines. Even the gloves are styled off-kilter. The bustline details tempt with fanciful intricacy.
Overall, I found this collection exceptionally delightful to examine. I would love to learn more about the materials, because seeing this realized in 100% natural fibers would be transcendent, even at definitively higher price points.
What this collection reminded me of: The importance of layering meaning. Aksu doesn't choose between heritage and modernity, structure and romance, innocence and sensuality. He builds narrative through juxtaposition. Every detail is a deliberate choice that adds to the story he's telling about femininity, memory, and craft.
Brand story always weaves its threads similarly. It's not about choosing one dimension of who you are. It's about structuring the layers and tendrils so they create depth, intrigue, and meaning that rewards closer attention.
If you’re seeking guidance on choosing the right words to align with the elegance of your brand…