The Space was founded in 2018 and soon became a must-visit in the city for lovers of Street culture. The concept is largely about freedom of expression, and new products are designed by the team to reflect their beliefs alongside the ever-evolving trends on the streets of Istanbul’s coolest neighbourhoods. Think hoodies, sweatshirts, wide-leg jeans, Cargo pants and denim jackets lining the walls, plus sneakers tucked under the mix-and-match rails.
Address: The Space, Hüsrev Gerede Cd. No:78 Teşvikiye 34365 Şişli/İstanbul
Website: thespacewebsite.com
Classic doorway in Istanbul’s old townYAKOV KNYAZEV / Stocksy
Sobe Handmade
Best for: upgraded footwear
On-the-pulse footwear brand Sobe Handmade follows a long history of shoe making. Designer Beste Ince grew up learning the trade in her father’s atelier, eventually launching her own line in 2015 with a team of artisans. Her creations have the signatures of classic Turkish slippers – pointed toes, backless babouche varieties, embroidered fabrics – but come in bright shades and with unexpected details: feather trims, bead-fringed ankle straps, embellished buckles. There are even high-heeled versions.
Address: Sobe Handmade, Teşvikiye, Akkavak Sk. 12b, 34365 Şişli/İstanbul, Turkey
Website: sobehandmade.com
The Blue Mosque peeking between the domes of the Hagia SophiaAgencia / Stocksy
Epicene
Best for: sleek jewellery
Experimental boutique Epicene, run by Damla Bozoglu and Burak Koçak, is known for its minimal, architectural forms. The Poyracik Street flagship looks more like an abandoned gallery from the outside, with a revolving limited-edition display that might include graphic T-shirts, postmodern ashtrays and ring-pierced totes. But the jewellery – chunky unisex signet rings and ear cuffs; avant-garde Plexiglas chokers – is a constant.
Address: Epicene, Teşvikiye, Poyracik Sk No:16 D:1A, 34365 Şişli/İstanbul, Turkey
Website: epicene.co
Kloto
Best for: eco accessories
Another talent is Senem Gençoglu, whose bold, mixed-metal chain-link styles with oversized bolts and pavé diamonds at Kloto are sustainably made. These are wearable pieces that range from subtle to eye-catching – ideal for a touch of glitz ahead of evenings in Istanbul’s stylish rooftop bars and exquisite restaurants.
Address: Kloto, Mollafenari Mah. Vezirhan Sok, No:48 D:52, Fatih/Istanbul 34120, Turkey
Website: kloto.com
