Moira by Urfa Collection Brings Ancient Weaving Tradition to the Fashion Stage

AVRUPA TIMES/LONDON-Renowned for its millennia-old history and cultural richness, Şanlıurfa — one of the world’s most unique cities — has embarked on a special journey by combining its traditional motifs and textiles with contemporary fashion. The result of this journey, the “Moira by Urfa” collection, showcases Şanlıurfa’s distinctive cultural heritage to both national and international fashion audiences. 

Collection Name and Mythological Connection

The collection is named “Moira,” which means Goddess of Fate. Inspired by the Moira mosaic located among the ruins in the Haleplibahçe district of central Şanlıurfa — now exhibited at the Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum — the “Moira by Urfa” collection draws on the mosaic’s design and symbolism. The collection has already generated significant excitement in the fashion world.

Şanlıurfa stands out not only for its historical heritage but also for its innovative vision in fashion. The "Moira by Urfa" project, launched with significant support from Şanlıurfa Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Mehmet Kasım Gülpınar and spearheaded by Saadet Türkmen, combines the city's centuries-old weaving traditions with a modern approach to fashion.

Merve Ofluoglu, Head of the Municipality Culture Department,  Saadet Turkmen, Fashion and textile expert and producer,  Halil Sert, Deputy President of the International Diplomats Association (DMW) with Mayor Gülpınar.

The 40-piece special collection, designed by renowned Turkish fashion designer Erol Albayrak, drew inspiration from traditional çulha and ehram fabrics. Combining traditional motifs with contemporary lines, the collection was presented in a spectacular fashion show held in the atmospheric Şanlıurfa Museum.

Hosted by Mayor Mehmet Kasım Gülpınar, the event brought together leading figures from the worlds of art, fashion, and business. Mayor Gülpınar described the project’s goal as “supporting women’s craftsmanship, promoting local production, and carrying Şanlıurfa’s cultural heritage into the future through sustainable fashion.”

Following the show, Albayrak said:
“This collection centers on women’s labor, local production, and sustainable design, while representing a cultural vision that carries Şanlıurfa’s historical identity into the future.”

Choreographed by Akif Örük, the striking runway featured 25 models, including Özge Ulusoy, Ece Begüm Yücetan, and Gözde Gürkan, known for her role in the TV series “İnci Taneleri.”

Choreographed by Akif Örük with Saadet Turkmen

Blending history, culture, and fashion, “Moira by Urfa” offered an unforgettable fashion celebration — weaving the city’s rich past into the fabric of tomorrow’s design.

Top Model Özge Ulusoy Becomes a Bride in Şanlıurfa

European Media Group President Vatan Öz with Actress Gözde Gürkan, who plays the character of "Aleyna" in Pearl Grains, which has recently sparked curiosity

The fashion show attended by European Media Group President Vatan Öz, who travelled from the United Kingdom by special invitation, created a major stir. Öz’s attendance drew strong interest from the European press, placing Şanlıurfa firmly in the spotlight.

Featured Fabrics and Motifs Unique to Şanlıurfa in the Collection:

EHRAM AND ÇULHA

Ehram and Çulha fabrics, traditional weaving styles on the brink of disappearance, have been transformed into contemporary textiles for the collection. This revival not only preserves these historic crafts but also supports local development in Şanlıurfa.

ÇULHA FABRIC: Cotton fabrics woven on traditional looms, adorned with a variety of patterns and motifs.

KILIMS: Karakeçili kilims stand out for their geometric designs and the cultural stories they convey.