Love it or Leave it!

Rozi, Store Manager

Glasses: Ray-Ban
Cardigan: Vinatage Store New York City
Trousers: Massimo Dutti
Boots: Zara

Many people associate important memories with their closet. Those memories often tell the story of an impressive trip. Same goes for Rozi. She touched gently the oversized vintage cardigan and recalled the smile she smiled when she walked through New York City some time ago. I have noticed that especially this love for New York City comes up in association with clothes memories a lot. Why do people love New York so much? I think because New York makes you feel at home. Anything goes no matter which race, color, sex, religion, political opinion, national extraction or social origin. Everyone is New York! Hair color, look and even language are no indications for authenticity. The city of endless opportunities. I want to part of it, New York, New York, Frank Sinatra.

The Key is to Translate Fashion into Your Personal Style

Ezgi, Style Consultant

Glasses: illesteva
Jacket: Marni for H&M
Skirt: Chloé
Shoes: Prada
Necklace: Zara
Click here to see what trend Ezgi will never follow...

If you don't have the time, energy or expertise to go shopping on your own, considering the latest trends and how to mix them with your personal style - you should maybe think about a personal shopper. Personal Shoppers are hired by clients to shop for everything from clothing to shoes to more personal items. Personal shopping is all about individualized attention, and a personal shopper generally meets with a client to determine what her personal style is and what she is looking for in terms of fashion. The shopper will then go on to shop for the client and do her best to stay within the client's taste. Yesterday I had an inspiring encounter with two personal shoppers: Lian and Ezgi - the owners of Luxuryshoppers. They call themselves "Style Consultants". Other people would probably call them "Time Savers" or "Miracle Makers". Besides image consulting, personal shopping and wardrobe planning they offer corporate styling and seminars about trends, styling and image, among other services. It's pretty obvious that Ezgi and Lian work hard and love what they are doing. I think, people aren't born with great style. It's something that is learned by those who pay attention. Ezgi and Lian help people to translate fashion into their personal style. 

True Luxury is about Having Time

Nergis, Make Up Artist 

Hat: knitted by her mother

Coat: borrowed from her friend

Blouse:Grand Bazaar Istanbul

Trousers: Bershka

Boots: Stradivarius

Click here to read what trend Nergis will never follow...

Nergis appeared totally relaxed to me when I saw her sitting outside, enjoying the great weather and chatting with her friends. Although my Turkish knowledge is insufficient for describing Imprimoloco properly we could communicate surprisingly well. To the question of her occupation Nergis answered with a satisfied facial expression: At the moment I don't work. In a world in which occupation, permanent deadlines and stress are understood as status symbols her answer fascinated me. Nergis used to work as a make up artist before, including Estée Lauder. But now she enjoys obviously the time. The encounter with Nergis makes me realize that time is priceless. True luxury is about having time.

An Istanbul Woman does not go out not Looking her Best

 Cihan, Stylist

Leather Jacket: Party 21

Trousers: Zara

Pumps: Zen Ayakkabi

Canta: Zen Canta

Contrary to the opinion that fashion is superficial, I have noticed that fashion works on the surface, but does not deserve the attribute superficial. From the beginning fashion has been a mirror of society, created to present the individual need of expression. The range of expression is huge, so much that the effect depends on subtle details. It strikes me that Istanbul women have their own style. Modern Turkish women love to dress elegant, fashionable and feminine. No matter what, high heels are an obligation. The Style of some Turkish Designers confirms my observation: Dresses, skin-tight cuts for trousers and skirts and leather. Black is omnipresent together with flashy cuts, colors and expensive adornments. For me Cihan represents perfectly the modern, elegant Istanbul woman. Her style is ladylike: Black Leather jacket with adornments, black jeans equipped with golden rivets and flashy red patent leather pumps. Cihan showed me that an Istanbul woman does not go out not looking her best. 

It's definitely worth showing Cihan's hairstyle!

Why does It take a Minute to Say Hello and Forever to Say Goodbye?

Carolina, Visual Communication Student 

Fake Fur Jacket: Zara

Skirt: Bershka

Boots: Bata

Click here to read what trend Carolina would never follow...

Carolina and her fellow students were filming when I passed. It turned out that they are Erasmus students from Portugal spending their last days in Istanbul. They asked me about Istanbul, about my neighborhood and about the people living there. Carolina spent the time of her life in Istanbul. The thought of farewell makes her very sad. I perfectly understand. 

Istanbul is a magnificent city - one full of beauty, history, spectacular architecture, nice restaurants, views to die for, exceptionally kind and honest people, fun filled nightclubs, exotic sounds, exotic smells and much more. Istanbul is also a city of dilapidated buildings, dirty streets, lots of cats, stray dogs, carpet sellers who can be annoying, taxi drivers who can't drive and few scammers. Istanbul is not perfect. Istanbul is not plastic. It's real and it's gritty. It's Asia, it's Europe. It's a total contradiction!! And all of it, the good and the bad, combine to make it one of the most vibrant, unique and amazing cities in the world. I hope you can understand now why it's hard for Carolina to leave. The good thing about saying farewell is that you could be lucky to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard. 

Keep it Short and Sweet

Birtan, Bershka Employee

Coat: Bershka

Jeans: Bershka

Boots: Harley Davidson

Yesterday I was lucky because I even met two style conscious men. I can indeed consider myself lucky, as there are usually more interesting dressed women on the street. Why does it seem to me as women like fashion more than men? Women talk more about trends and there are much more fashion magazines for women. Men's fashion is still characterized by classic suits. Although men depend more on trends than before - women's fashion is affected by extremely significant and dynamic changes. When Birtan told me that he works for Bershka, I was not any longer surprised by his style sense. To my question about his "personal no-go trend", Birtan answered like a shot: Classy. He never wants to look like the classic man in a suit. While talking to him, I noticed one more relevant difference between women and men: Interviewing and photographing goes much faster with a man.

For Some it's a Trend, for Others it's a Way of Life

Barkın, Store Manager at Lastikpabuç

Coat: Barbour

Trousers: Mango He

Lace-Up Shoes: Mango He

Barkin works for one of the biggest Sneaker Stores in Istanbul - take a look: 

www.lastikpabuc.com

The heroes of my childhood all had beards: Heidi's grandfather Almöhi, Wicki's father Halvar, Pumuckl's Meister Eder and last but not least Santa Claus. It seems to me that somehow people give you an authority and respect if you have beard. "I have the terrible feeling that because I am wearing a white beard, you expect me telling the truth" - Orson Wells' quote confirms my assumption. Currently, there are many men wearing mustaches and  full beards. And I have to ask myself if this is just a trend or if there is a deeper meaning. I decided to ask Barkin. His accurately trimmed beard caught my eyes immediately. He laughed, touched his beard and assured indignantly that he would never ever shave his beard. Then he paused for a second and added that he would maybe shave the full beard, but not in any way the mustache. I believe him and I realise that for Barkin the beard is part of his identity - much more than a matter of style. For some it's a trend and for others it's a way of life. 

Charisma is an Invisible Energy with Visible Effects

Duygu, Digital Strategist

Hat: Accessorize

Quilted Leo Jacket: Mango

Bag: Accessorize

Velvet Boots: Marjin

Click here to read what trend Duygu will never follow...

Right now I have to deal with the fact that snow, rain and cold make it difficult to work on the street. I was already on my way back home when I saw Duygu. She stood out of the crowd: One side shaved hair, nose piercing, Leo jacket, velvet boots and a colourful shoulder bag. But most conspicuous was Duygus's personal charisma. She was immediately on fire when I asked her to become part of Imprimoloco. During my work for Imprimoloco I noticed that people with charisma usually have an interesting style. Including Duygu. And suddenly, I am not sure any longer if I talked to her because of the refreshing style or because of her positive attitude. I have come to the conclusion that charisma is sparkle in people. It's an invisible energy with visible effects.

People with Style Value their Things

Solveig, Psychology Student

Shirt: Asos

Cardigan: Zara

Skirt: Topshop

Boots: Kauf Dich glücklich

Bag: Uterqüe

Click here to know more about what trend Solveig will never follow...

It It seems to me like yesterday -  my first time. I can remember all the details: December 2008, Munich, a grey smooth leather Coccinelle bag - my first high quality handbag. I still love this bag like the very first day. I could not help thinking of this when Solveig told me, eye shining, the story of her new designer bag: A beautiful brown Uterqüe bowling bag with suede and smooth leather inserts. Solveig saw the bag when she was on holiday with her family and it was love at first sight. She couldn't get it out of her head and went back to the store. This Uterqüe bag is the first high quality bag she could call her own. Solveig is valuing the bag a lot and I can sense that. I believe people with style value their things.

The Magic of the Unexpected

Jasmin, Fashion Fotography Student

Dress: Charity Shop London

Belt: Flea Market London

Boots: Bianco

Cardigan: Carin Wester

Click here to read what trend Jasmin will never follow...

To be honest, I didn't plan to post during my Christmas holidays until I saw Jasmin and her sister sitting on my in-law's couch. Jasmin's style is unique. I never saw her wearing trousers before. She prefers beautiful dresses and she loves to look for special pieces. Jasmin found her antique, metal belt on a flea market in London. Not in the fancy corner, but at the shabby end. She is still enjoying this unexpected found a lot. It's amazing how a simple belt can modify an outfit. Interesting belts add character and contrast to your outfit. Jasmin's story bring me to the conclusion that nothing adds more versatility to your closet for so little investment as a belt. I am also impressed by her style understanding: Allways looking for unique pieces and enjoying the magic of the unexpected found. 

Your Style can Speak Volumes about You - before You even open Your Mouth

Ece, Mathematics Student

Leopard Cap: Zara

Scarf: Gap

Dufflecoat: Miss Selfridge

Jeans: Zara

Shoes: Bershka

Bag: Accessorize

Click here to read what trend Ece will never follow...

The secret of wearing an animal based pattern fashion trend successfully is to relate the volume of pattern to your personality. This is exactly what Ece is doing. She is mixing her leopard cap with an orange dufflecoat, blue jeans and studded boots. I wanted her to become part of Imprimoloco because I love the fresh mood in her outfit which reflects her personality. When we talked about Ece's story it became quite clear that she enjoys fashion. She loves experimenting with different patterns and materials. For her, fashion is not about trends and brands. It's about fun. I can see that! Your clothing style can speak volumes about you before you even open your mouth.

I Shall Stay Until the Wind Changes

Gözde, Lawyer

Hat: Park Bravo

Coat: Zara

Bag: Ipekyol

Boots: Boutique in Kadiköy 

Click here to read what trend Gözde will never follow...

Today I have to correct myself! Last week I made the claim that not many women could wear a hat. Yesterday I learned that this is not true! Dressed elegantly with a perfect matching hat, Gözde attracted my attention. She reminded me of Mary Poppins: Her elegant and clean look, her special hat and the laced boots. Only the magic umbrella was missing. Gözde's style is influenced by the twenties. I can clearly see that and especially her hat leaves no doubt. Woman's fashion in the roaring twenties was all about elegance. And again Gözde makes me think of Mary Poppins when she said:"I shall stay until the wind changes."

These shoes are so Mary Poppins, aren't they?!

A Great Hat Speaks for Itself

Oya, Veterinarian

Hat: Esprit

Glasses: Tommy Hilfiger

Scarf: Promod

Coat: Ipekyol

Boots: Dr.Martens

Click here here, if you want to know what trend Oya will never follow...

A hat makes a fashion statement about the person who wears the hat. Even if hats are fashionable at the moment you won't find many people - especially women - who really could wear a hat. The most important thing about wearing hats is that you have to feel confident and comfortable with the hat you are wearing. Oya is one of those women who make a positive statement by wearing a classic hat. That's why I wanted her to become part of Imprimoloco. She has been wearing her hat for four years now, every winter. Oya tried hard to find a new one, but no other hat fits the same. "Fashion is kind of communication. It's a language without words. A great hat speaks for itself." Unknown Author.

It's All about Thinking Outside the Obvious Box

Ceylan, Style Editor for ALL Magazine

Bobble Hat: Zara

Scarf: Marks&Spencer

Coat: Topshop

Cardigan: Vintage, Milan

Blouse: Vintage, Dublin

Shoes: Dr.Martens

School Bag: Topshop

Click here to find out what trend Ceylan would never follow...

Yesterday I decided to go to Nişantaşı for some Imprimoloco street style inspiration. Nişantaşı is probably Istanbul's most glamorous quarter. The stores of world's famous brands are located there. And I was delighted by finding even Dries van Noten designs in Nişantaşı (one of my favourite designers). But really excited I became when I stumbled upon Ceylan and Douglas - street style editor and photographer for the Turkish ALL magazine. We talked and I took some pictures of Ceylan because I really enjoy her School Girl Chic. School Girl fashion channels everything from innocent to retro rebellion. It goes far beyond the Clueless cliche. For me it's about melting elements of youth with trends from different decades. It's about thinking outside the obvious box!

You will Never Find a Rainbow if You are Looking Down

Bülent, Owner of Harikalar Dükkanı

TShirt: KAFT

Shoes: Derimod

Soon I will go home for Christmas. For that reason I am looking for special Turkish gifts. In the heart of Istanbul, Beyoglu, I stumbled upon Bülent and his very nice shop "Harikalar Dükani". I bought two shirts from the Turkish brand Kaft design. It's important for me to give away personal gifts. Bülent's small shop is full of exclusive things, mainly from Turkish designers. For a long time he worked as a graphic designer. In the end the agency life didn't satisfy Bülent any longer and he decided to start his own business.  I have great respect for such a decision. "Harikalar Dükani" means "Wonder Shop". Bülent and his shop remind me Charly Chaplin's words: "You will never find a rainbow if you are looking down." 

You Know What, You can't See it, but Underneath My Sunglasses, I'm rolling My Eyes

Merve, Financial School Student

Loop: Gift from her sister

Sunglasses: Gift 

Coat: Mango

Jeans: Mango

Jumper: Mango

Boots: Lacoste

Bag: Mavi

I love Merve's sunglasses. And the fact that we didn't have much time to talk and she didn't know where the glasses are from couldn't stop me to think about the fascination of sunglasses. Everyone should own at least one good pair of sunglasses. And preferably one that you didn't get from that nice man on the street selling really real Ray-Ban's for 10 Euro. The beauty about shopping for a new pair of good sunglasses is that it's not as traumatic as buying a new bikini. And compared to the northern part of Europe, in Istanbul you definitely need sunglasses ten months a year. But apart from the UV protection sunglasses can do so much more. That's what I realised in Istanbul. They are great when you need to hide for any reason, if you are tired or if are not in the mood to be social. "Sunglasses allow an individual to stare at people without them knowing. It's Facebook in real life", unknown quote.

I wish I Existed Like Water

Doğu, Painter

Sunglasses: Burberry

Coat: Zara

Jeans: Zara

Scarf: Massimo Dutti

Jumper: Tommy Hilfiger

Shoes: Massimo Dutti

What a surprise! Yesterday I was on my way back home ready to catch the ferry when I saw Dogu and his friends waiting for the Island ship. They were totally relaxed and fooling around. Of course I asked them to become part of Imprimolco. It turned out that Dogu is one of Istanbul's young painting talents. I am very impressed by his work. You should take a closer look at his paintings and collages: www.doguozgun.com. I like the way he describes his paintings and himself: "I wish I were water, I were put into a mould, and took the shape of that mould. I wish I flowed like water, go away and come back. I wish I flowed to the sea, to the oceans, even I wish I weren't able to be discriminated among them...My painting world should be homogen like water." Needless to mention that we took pictures close to water. 

Noah's Arc, Collage, Paper  

Alice in Wonderland

Işık,Grafic Designer

Alice Band: Coquet

Coat: Boutique in Nişantaşı 

Bag: Guess

Dress: adL

Boots: UGG

One thing is sure: It is not easy to slide on an Alice band. Deeply ingrained in our cultural memory, it's inextricably entwined with notions of childhood innocence and trussed-up perfection - see its namesake, Alice in Wonderland and more recently Charlotte York in Sex and the City and Bree Van de Kamp in Desperate Housewives. The catwalk has played with those Alice Bands last summer, but still this trend is not popular on the streets yet. That was the reason I wanted Isik to become part of Imprimoloco because I love the way she is wearing her Alice Band - my personal Alice in Wonderland.

I noticed her unique handwriting Tatto when her sleeves were riding up. 

From Zürich with Love

Gökçe, Consultant

Glasses: Marc Jacobs

Scarf: loan from friend

Coat: Barbour

Shirt: Massimo Dutti

Skirt: Small Boutique in Galata

Shoes: Topshop

Backpack: Longchamp

Click here to read more about Gökçen's greatest Style Disaster...

"Backpacks are the new Handbags" - that's what I was thinking when I saw Gökce strolling along Bagdad Caddesi with her friends. Some popular designers like Michael Kors, Moschino, Vivienne Westwood or Dsquared2 presented this "old-new" trend for the spring/summer season 2012. Gökce wears and combines her backpack like a real fashionista. I am beginning to realise that, apart from a new camera, I should also invest in a good backpack. Gökce bought her glasses in Zürich. She went there for an internship and had the time of her life. Zürich will always have a place in Gökce's heart. And I know exactly what she means because I met my soul mate in Zürich. 

What Your Hair Says About You

Magda, Mother and Journalist

Earrings: Present from her Husband (the only earrings Magda is wearing)

Necklace: LiLou, Poland

Jumper: Gap, London

Jeans: Mavi

Ballerinas: Calvin Klein

Bag: Pappagallo, Poland

Glasses: Marc By Marc Jacobs

Magda has her own unique style. In the fraction of a second I knew that I want her to become part of Imprimoloco. Magda is bursting with energy, ideas and satisfaction. And I am glad that she is taking the time to tell me her story. Magda used to work for MTV Poland. Meanwhile she is living in Istanbul together with her two children and husband. Besides, Magda is working as a journalist. I can see that there is still some Rock'n Roll in her soul. Not least of all Magda's hair cut is betraying her: The right half of the head ear length, the left half of the head shaved. What a haircut! I did believe her when she told me: "I don't care what other people say about my style." And I would like to see many more unconventional people who just don't care what others think. 

  

The Love of her life: Magda's husband and two children. If you are going to Warsaw one day you should go to LiLou  and get your own personal bracelet or necklace. I like their slogan: "You know that the only thing that can limit you is your imagination. And at LiLou there are no limits."

The Ones we Love reflect in our Style

Pelin, Communication and Advertising Student

Scarf: Small Shop at Bleecker Street, New York

Jumper, Arden, Moda

Trousers: Massimo Dutti

Loafers: Calvin Klein

Bag: Céline

Watch: DKNY

Click here to read more about Pelin's greatest Style Disaster...

 

Waiting for the fast ferry to the European Side of Istanbul, I noticed Pelin. She was perfectly dressed for a nice and sunny autumn day: Beige, Mustard and White. We only talked for two minutes. In this short time her eyes sparkled when she mentioned her boyfriend. Pelin's style tells her own interesting story and her boyfriend plays a major role. She would for example never have chosen these lined Calvin Klein loafers for herself. He picked them from the shelf, Pelin tried the loafers on and she was convinced. It was also her boyfriend who asked her to eliminate the combination of oversized camel jumper together with black tights. Pelin's story gave me the idea to establish the Love-Style theory: The ones we love reflects in our style.

Pelin saw the DKNY watch in New York. It was love at first sight. Back in Istanbul she looked everywhere for it. In the end she couldn't forget this watch and she ordered it from the US.