Today we’d like to introduce you to Aysegul Ikna.
Aysegul, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Fashion has grown to become an emblem of my family’s heritage. There’s a certain excitement when challenged to design something different and unique from nothing. And what greater challenge is there than taking an abstract design and creating it in a way that can help preserve and recycle? Within a competitive industry that often pollutes and wastes?
Once I graduated from Atlanta’s Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) in 2020, I began to center my designs under “slow fashion,” actively promoting this concept of process over quantity through my contemporary pieces as well as my education workshops on sustainable fashion.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Setting up your own business, especially in the fashion industry, has definitely come with its fair share of challenges in both the general business and in myself as a designer. For example, creating a piece that others may appreciate really challenges me as a designer to stay true to what I feel still embodies my style. Along that same note, being a small business owner also brings the difficulty of being able to sell your pieces at a reasonable price for the work being done in it. But the work I do is not just designing and creating my pieces; I am also in charge of the retail, marketing, executive decision-making, and management of my online presence. It is definitely much to handle all at once, but I wouldn’t be doing all this if I didn’t love it.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a graduate of Atlanta’s Savannah College of Art & Design, Aysegul is a versed designer and a proponent of slow fashion. Her fashion brand focuses on the detailed process of the craft and will offer contemporary women’s pieces. Aysegul Ikna Designs is all about breathing new life into old, creating a modern aesthetic from recycled and locally sourced fabrics. She sources materials from off-cut fabrics and unwanted clothes by working with secondhand traders.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
In many ways, I have learned that collaboration is a key part of success, and I always look forward to collaborating with other amazing designers. I always learn so much from others, finding out more about different styles and gaining inspiration. I am always on the lookout to work with fresh and innovative minds with the aim for sustainable fashion. I do not believe that “my way is the way” because no creativity would ever stem from that. If anyone has interest in collaborating with me, feel free to contact me via email or cell, or DM me on Instagram (@aysegul_ikna).
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ayseguliknadesigns.com
- Instagram: @aysegul_ikna
