BORA AKSU’s SS19 collection is inspired by the nomadic soul of Romani poetess, Bronislawa Wajs, widely known as Papusza. In an ode to Papusza, the collection incorporates her free spirited ethos characterised by a determination to oppose traditional limitations.

Married in a traditional ceremony at 15, Papusza grew unhappy in her marriage and took to singing as an outlet for her discomfort. She began to compose her own songs based on traditional Romani storytelling, and soon her talents caught the eye of Polish poet Ficowski, who published several of her poems, making them known to the world.

Papusza’s life took a negative turn when she was accused of revealing secrets of her native culture. Papusza was later regarded as a traitor and banished for the next 34 years of her life. As it often happens – her work grew in popularity after her death.

In a circular representation of Papusza’s life, the hurdles that Papusza had to face formed the creative expression of BORA AKSU’s SS19 collection. The mixture of vibrant floral prints, soft silk tulles and laces represent the poet’s nomadic self, the shades of whites representing her early wedding, and deep blues with contrasting white embroideries reflecting her passionate and

determined side.

Exuding a soft-spoken nomadic message, the pieces feature embroidered, cut-out lace patterns in white and dark shades as seen on the dress’s collars, cuffs and ribbons. The layering is exquisitely designed with technical embroideries, prints and textures in romantic lines and shapes. A softness is maintained throughout, mimicking the perfect balance achieved in Papuzsa's character. The capes in tulle and organza are also a dominant part of the collection and create an ethereal feel. A palette including lilacs, purples, corals and hot pinks are used together with quieter shades such as whites, creams, soft blues, pinks and blacks. Much of the detailing is inspired by the early 20th century Romani gypsy lifestyle and its symbolic dress

codes.

BORA AKSU’s SS19 collection encompasses three distinctive themes of Age of Innocence, Still Granite and Tea Party.

Age of Innocence

Featuring shades of white and light pastels, the Age of Innocence selection embodies an element of fragility with soft cuts and silhouettes. The romance comes alive in cream and white combinations, and the use of lace and crochet, fusing femininity into the pleats of the dresses.

Still Granite

The Still Granite selection infuses the essence of Papusza’s melancholic nature into the silhouettes of the pieces, disguising BORA AKSU’s signature romance within menswear detailing, muted shades and clean lines on linen, denim and crisp cotton layers.

Tea Party

Papuzsa’s nomadic gypsy life comes alive in a burst of colour with Tea Party, featuring a selection of refreshing corals and warm colours, combined with vibrant floral prints and tropical applique to create a chic, ethereal feel. Fashioned with a youthful vigour, the textured checks, patterns and ribbed frills add a dimension of feminine androgyny to get you in a party mood.

About BORA AKSU

The BORA AKSU brand dates back to 2002, when designer Bora Aksu received his first acclaim on graduation from Central Saint Martins. Bora’s collection won a sponsorship award, giving him the opportunity to make his debut at London Fashion Week in 2003. The BORA AKSU brand was founded in the same year. A resounding success, a total of four consecutive New Generation Awards were presented to Bora from the British Fashion Council. He also won Designer of the Year award from Elle Style and an acknowledgement from Queen Elizabeth II for his contributions to the British Fashion Industry. The romanticism of Bora’s collection makes for a refined yet modern aesthetic. Handicraft, layering and textural contrast alongside muted colours and volume form its key DNA. BORA AKSU is lauded for its elegant, sophisticated, romantic, modern and feminine feel. BORA AKSU’s flagship store officially opened in Beijing in 2015. The stores followed in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Macau and Paris. In 2018, BORA AKSU continues its expansion plans with store openings planned for Singapore, Korea, Europe and the United States.

Store Address 2 Bayfront Avenue, Canal Level, B2-107, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore 018972 Tel: +65 6688 7243 Level 2, International Collection, Takashimaya Department Store, Tower A, Ngee Ann City, No. 391 Orchard Road, Singapore 238873 Tel: +65 6734 1787

Website: boraaksu.com

Facebook: /boraaksuofficial

Instagram: @bora_aksu