I spent my childhood years in Istanbul. To me, those days colored by the mesmerizing panorama of an ancient city, set against the cerulean blue of the Bosporus, are happiness in its purest form. That is why I perennially yearn to go back to the mystique and beauty of the Orient. This summer Fashionlines editor-in-chief Christine Suppes and I made this reverie a reality. Christine escaped to Istanbul right before Haute Couture week and I, having arrived earlier, showed her the city. Istanbul envelopes all who go in its magical splendor—we were spellbound the whole time. In between delectable dinners in three star restaurants, beauty treatments at the Ciragan Palace Spa, and celebrity studded parties in Reina it hit Christine she didn’t want to leave. That is the magic of my hometown.

Besides historical ruins of antiquated civilizations, Istanbul is home to some of the most stylish individuals in the world. Impacted by timeless Western elegance, yet arabesque in essence; these people interpret fashion with such unique flavor. In Istanbul’s premier spots a lá Sortie, 360, Vogue, and Samdan one encounters processions of gorgeous women clad in the latest looks from the finest Parisian and Milanese fashion houses. What sets these beauties apart from every other international jetsetter is the inimitable Turkish spin they put on panache. Matching a beautiful Oscar de la Renta or Chanel gown with hand crafted gold bullions inspired by the Ottoman royal jewels; Turkish women tailor style to their opulent needs. If there is one city in the world where luxury is the standard, Istanbul is it.

Shopping in Istanbul is a delight. In this metropolis of infinite possibilities one can find one-of-a-kind treasures alongside instantly recognizable brands. Remember, when you step out in Istanbul, it is all about standing out from the crowd.

Nisantasi is the destination for luxury shopping in Istanbul. On Abdi Ipekci Street (the Middle Eastern equivalent of Rodeo Drive) it is possible to purchase the latest creations from designers like Valentino, Roberto Cavalli, and Armani. However, to experience something truly different, I recommend you pay a visit to Beymen and Vakko. These premier retailers sell everything from in house diffusion labels to Balenciaga bags.

Beymen Nişantaşı, Abdi İpekçi Cad. No: 23/1 Nişantaşı (212) 343 04 04

www.beymen.com.tr

Vakko Nişantaşı, Abdi Ipekçi Caddesi 77/1, Maçka (212) 225 2003

www.vakko.com.tr

Finally, it goes without saying that leaving Istanbul without indulging yourself in lavish jewelry is a sin. If you wish to view the most exquisite selection of gold and platinum jewelry studded with radiant diamonds, luscious pearls, and precious stones, next time you are in Turkey, make an appointment at Gilan. Just one glimpse into their vault will convince you to cast aside that familiar Cartier Trinity necklace in favor of a sensual piece from the Harem Collection infused with passion, power, and magnificence.

Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Nispetiye Caddesi, No. 123 Etiler
Phone: 282-0576 Fax: 282-0579 Email: info@gilan.com.tr
www.gilan.com.tr