A Bold Step Having previously worked for global brands, Turkish designer Serena Uziyel launched her own unusual designs, focusing on traditional art and handicraft techniques 82 emirateswoman.com
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IMAGES: SUPPLIED
WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH
What does the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? I start the day very early with a 20-minute meditation session. I then take a walk around the Bosporus and if I am travelling, I try to find a pleasant walking path to clear my mind and prepare myself for the hectic day. It’s very important for me to smell the fresh air and enjoy nature early in the morning. What was the catalyst for you to launch your own brand and how did you know it was the right time? I was inspired by my rich family history and origins; my vision is sculpted by both heritage and the exploration of different cultures along with forms of artistry around the world. I’ve always dreamed of being a strong female voice in the world of accessories. I’m extremely hands-on in the design and production process, and my vision for launching Serena Uziyel was to carry on the ancient craftsman techniques. It all began with an appreciation of the past through a modern lens. How do you infuse handicraft techniques with such cool, modern designs and was this part of the brand ethos from the outset? One of the most precious values to me is heritage as it’s found in traditions and rituals. I have been raised in a family where women are powerful, inspiring and courageous. Their integrity and moral values are exhilarating and promising. My grandaunts were milliners in the late Ottoman Empire and the beginning years of the Turkish Republic until 1950s. They owned a small millinery shop behind the ancient streets of Beyoglu. They were twin daughters of a wealthy ambassador and they never married. After the loss of their father at a young age, they became entrepreneurs to support themselves, and began crafting hats catered to the elite society of Istanbul. These stories from my roots have always uplifted and inspired me. I actually display antique millinery molds from my aunts’ boutique in our very own boutique in Kurucesme. At the same time, I find my inspiration everywhere. I am inspired by life and what life has brought me to this day, mainly through history, my roots and the women in my family. I think all these elements create a beauty for Serena Uziyel’s timeless yet modern pieces. How have you incorporated your Turkish heritage into the creative process? I execute a lot of my craftmanship with the local artisans of India and Turkey. I love experimenting and being hands-on in the process of creating. The silhouettes and the details have to be exceptional all the time. The antique threads (sirma) reminds me of a beautiful, magical and an ancient world. Each artistic element
FAS H I O N
9/30/21 5:05 PM
