Cypriot designer shines at Naomi in Fashion event

In a stunning debut, emerging Cypriot fashion designer Ilkan Koral has been prominently featured in Vogue, thanks to an eye-catching yellow maxi dress. His exquisite creation was showcased at the opening of the Naomi in Fashion exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London on July 21. The dress was worn by Christina Dymioti, an award-winning social entrepreneur and founder of the Fashion Heritage Network Cyprus (FHNC), an organisation dedicated to preserving Cypriot cultural heritage through sustainable fashion.

Sustainable fashion is a mission close to Koral’s heart. Born in Nicosia in 1991, Koral’s path to fashion was unconventional. After completing a veterinary medicine degree, he realised his true calling lay in fashion design. “I had no technical background in fashion, so I had to put in double effort,” Koral said. He started his career in fashion with an MA in fashion design at Centro Superior Diseño de Moda in Madrid. “It was a big decision for me back then, but it clearly paid off.”

Koral’s designs, which include both menswear and womenswear, emphasise sustainability and adaptability to various body types. His work combines different techniques and materials, such as crepe and organic cotton, creating unique garments with diverse textures. This unique blend was on show in the yellow maxi dress that caught Vogue’s attention.

“When Christina contacted me about the event, we had very little time,” Koral said. “I already had another design ready, but it didn’t convince me. I wanted to create something fresh that matched her personality. I aimed for her to feel powerful, yet free and sensual.” The urgency and creativity show clearly in the final design of the dress.

The yellow maxi dress stood out not just for its bold colour but also for its intricate details. “The yellow colour looked stunning on her, and I added cotton threads to represent Cypriot rawness and naturality,” Koral explained. “These threads completed the look. They gave a sense of continuity and fluidity. Essentially, it’s Cypriot heritage and artisan work reimagined in a contemporary dress. The blend of soft, flowing fabric with raw organic cotton threads symbolises the Cypriot mosaic and cultural richness.”

This attention to detail and cultural symbolism is a hallmark of Koral’s work. His designs are deeply rooted in his Cypriot heritage, a connection that he nurtures despite being based in Madrid. “My work often incorporates mixed techniques and materials. It blends different textures and fabrics to create unique garments that connect my cultural roots with contemporary fashion,” he said.

Koral’s involvement with the FHNC has been a significant part of his journey. He has contributed to several of their events, including the Revive exhibition in London and the recent Cyprus Fashion Film Festival. “Being part of FHNC allows me to showcase Cypriot culture on an international stage,” Koral added. “It’s about more than fashion; it’s about preserving and promoting our heritage.”

During his creative process, an emotional connection is important. “How they feel in the design is important. The dress must resonate with the wearer’s essence. It must maintain their individuality with an original touch,” he said.

Koral’s journey from Nicosia to Madrid has been filled with challenges and triumphs. His initial foray into fashion was driven by a desire to explore and innovate. “I started with no technical background, so I had to learn everything from scratch. It was a lot of hard work, but it was worth it.” His time in Madrid, working with various brands and as a visual merchandiser, has shaped his approach to design. “Working as a visual merchandiser helped me understand the importance of presentation and the narrative behind a collection,” he added.

The use of traditional Cypriot elements in modern designs is also used by Koral to tell a story. “The threads I use are a tribute to my grandmother, who was a master of handicrafts. They remind me of my childhood and connect me with my roots,” he said. “I want my designs to make people feel connected to their culture while also feeling contemporary and stylish,” a vision clear in every piece he creates.

As far as the future is concerned Koral says he is working on a new collection that will debut at Cyprus Fashion Week. “It will feature a lot of elements inspired by my homeland, but with a modern twist.” His excitement and passion are clear, hinting at more innovative designs to come.

Ilkan Koral’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, hard work and a deep connection to one’s roots. His yellow maxi dress is just the beginning of what promises to be a career in fashion design.