London-based designer Bora Aksu presented his Spring/Summer 2027 collection, turning to historical narrative and traditional craftsmanship to examine themes of female autonomy, identity, and artistic expression.
Historical Inspiration: Mary Beale
The core inspiration for the collection is Mary Beale (1633–1699), recognized as one of Britain’s first self-supporting female professional painters. Operating a successful portrait studio in 17th-century London, Beale navigated an industry dominated almost exclusively by men.
Aksu draws on Beale’s legacy as a pioneer of commercial and artistic independence, using her life as a structural framework for the collection’s narrative and design elements.
Design and Craftsmanship
The SS27 garments translate 17th-century silhouettes into contemporary womenswear through structured tailoring and intricate texturing:
- Romantic Tailoring: Historical silhouettes are reinterpreted through soft structuring, volume, and layered drapery.
- Antep Embroidery: The collection incorporates traditional Antep needlework, integrating detailed artisan handcraft into modern fabrications.
- Period Details: Design cues reflect the portraiture aesthetics of the late Stuart period, balancing softness with structured line work.
Production & Creative Credits
Creative & Styling
- Brand & Designer: Bora Aksu (@bora_aksu), Fella Aksu (@rofellaaksu)
- Creative Consultant & Styling: Leith Clark (@leithclark)
- Stylist Assistant: Alice Dench
- PR Agency: AB Comms (@ab_comms)
Beauty & Hair
- Make Up: Georgina Graham (@georginagraham) at The Wall Group (@thewallgroup)
- Hair: Larry King London (@larrykinglondon)
- Casting: @krokogheya
Show Production & Technical
- Production: Ant Waller AW+C (@ant_waller)
- Tech Production: Lightwave Production (@lightwaveprod)
- Lighting Design: Fred (@techyfreddy)
- Show Calling: Sourced London (@sourcedlondon)
- Flower Set Design: SERV (@serv.world)
- Backstage Photography: Zuzu Valla (In-house)
Backstage & Brand Team
- @rofellaaksu, @misuki639, @sule.cairaschi, @shanon_af, @poppy.smyth, @merttcelebi, @kaandogruu, @liamhOwes
Model Roster
- Beah Sá
- Bliss Chapman
- Clara Potter
- Lily Nova
- Miriam Ntuyang
- Rahma Aden
- Raphaella Hawkins
- Tainara Dapper
- Tia Edney
- Toto Matoch
- Wiktoria Darda