In a captivating celebration of Istanbul’s imprint on high fashion, Beymen’s “Golden Opulence” exhibition emerges as a visual masterpiece, commemorating the Turkish department store’s 50th anniversary. Guided by the discerning eye of fashion historian Laurence Benaïm, over 50 designers and brands curated unique pieces showcased in the historical Tophane-i Amire, a 15th-century Ottoman arsenal transformed into a Culture and Art Center.
19th Century Old Turkish Caftan
Cabinet of Wonders: A Glimpse into Tradition
The exhibition started with the “Cabinet of Wonders,” a display of rare and very well conserved traditional Turkish garments borrowed from private collectors. These pieces, including 19th-century silk caftans and antique tunics, spotlight the splendor that has inspired fashion for centuries. As the students embarked on their journey through the exhibition, the “Cabinet of Wonders” became a vivid panorama of emotions. For many, it was an immersive introduction to Istanbul’s rich fashion heritage.
Precious Dreams – Givenchy
Precious Dreams: Haute Couture Reimagined
“Precious Dreams” transported our Istanbul campus students into a world of haute couture, where the grandeur of the Topkapi finds reinterpretation. The students marveled at the intricate details of Hubert de Givenchy’s gold brocade pantsuit.
Bosphorus Gardens: Where Nature Meets Couture
The “Bosphorus Gardens” pay homage to nature’s importance in Ottoman culture. Contemporary designers, inspired by Persian gardens, craft couture-level pieces, merging past and present in a tapestry of golden embroideries, crystals, sequins, and beads. This part of the exhibition sparked discussions among the students about the marriage of nature and high fashion.
Bosphorus Garden – Valentino
Mineral Roundness: Tradition Meets Modernity
The final section, “Mineral Roundness,” honors Ottoman architecture. Turkish designer Ozgur Masur’s creation, featuring tiny circles of glass with floral bead embroideries, seamlessly merges tradition and modernity. The students were captivated by this fusion.
IFA Paris Istanbul: An Immersive Education
Mineral Roundness – Ozgur Masur
In this fusion of history and haute couture, “Golden Opulence” not only celebrates Istanbul’s profound impact on high fashion but also underscores the crucial link between fashion and culture. The global significance of the exhibition is underscored by Vogue USA’s coverage, with Tiziana Cardini covering it.
IFA Paris Istanbul students emerged from this exhibition, with their eyes sparkling with newfound inspiration. Their engagement in the exhibition reflected the essence of IFA Paris Istanbul’s commitment to providing a holistic education. The experience went beyond the theoretical understanding of fashion, allowing students to witness firsthand the dynamic interplay between tradition and modern creativity.
IFA Paris Istanbul Students at the Golden Opulence Exhibition
The “Golden Opulence” experience not only deepened their understanding of Istanbul’s fashion legacy but also fueled their passion for a future in the dynamic world of high fashion.
Through organized visits to cultural and industry events, IFA Paris Istanbul goes beyond the classroom, ensuring students gain real-world exposure and hands-on experience in the vibrant fashion industry.