EDITORIAL / JOURNAL PARIS
Paris, Fashion, and Heritage: A Summer of Inspiration
This summer, I spent a few days in Paris, immersing myself in the city’s energy, art, and fashion scene. I wore my Cordelia Dress, a piece from my collection made in very limited numbers. Its sophisticated yet playful design felt at home among the galleries, historic streets, and sunlit cafés.
One evening, I dined at the legendary Hotel Costes, letting the elegant ambiance and the music of Barış Manço spark new ideas. These moments in Paris weren’t just about sightseeing—they were about connecting with creativity, design, and the spirit of artisanal craft.
Back home, this inspiration informs my work at Arzu Kara. I collaborate with women artisans in Madagascar, preserving traditional Malagasy weaving techniques while blending them with contemporary design. Each piece, whether a dress or a handwoven tote, is a conversation between heritage and modernity, artistry and purpose.
Fashion, for me, is not just about clothing—it’s about storytelling, empowerment, and sustainable design. Limited editions, like the Cordelie Dress, are a way to honor craftsmanship while creating pieces that feel personal and unique. Similarly, accessories like the handwoven tote carry this philosophy forward: lightweight, sculptural, and functional, yet rooted in centuries-old techniques.
Traveling, observing, and listening—to art, music, and the creative pulse of a city—feeds the vision and business of Arzu Kara. Paris reminded me that fashion is as much about heritage, dialogue, and inspiration as it is about trends.
The Henley Pop Up Fashion Week
Now in its 5th year the very much anticipated annual event is back. The truly finest brands in fashion, accessories, beauty, home, interior design have got together to bring you the most sought after “Life Style Shop” Henley has been waiting for all year! Only open from 6th -11th 10am till 5pm. Entry is free. Champagne is on ice waiting for our loyal and valued clients, see you there.
Arzu and Gill (Who is the gorgeous lady behind the Yellow Dot studio, who was responsible for our de-constructed balloon arch)
We had gallons of bubbles and canapés courtesy of the Coppa Club
The window of dreams
The perfect combo: dresses, pink arm chair, peonies and the chocolate lab!
We think that she was the cutest guest we had. Look at those eyes 💕
Arzu Kara- super chic and classically timeless contemporary women’s wear. http://www.arzukara.com
Nicky Blystad Jewellery – unique and ever-changing collection, featuring hand picked semi precious stones, which are made into gorgeous colourful earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings. http://www.nickyblystad.com
H by Maia – All-natural toxin-free skincare line, created by Maia, that started out of a love for things honest and natural. http://www.hbymaia.com
Sian Esther London – A luxe women’s nightwear brand supporting vulnerable women have a safe night’s sleep and fulfil their dreams. www.sianesther.co.uk
t.&toff – Hand poured luxury candles and bath salt. http://www.tandtoff.com
Moleé – An Oxfordshire based business, specialising in the design and crafting of luxury leather bags and lifestyle accessories. Alongside a core collection of products, also offers bespoke design and concept creation. http://www.mollebags.com
Embellished Truth – British luxury accessories label which focuses on environmental sensibilities. Each handbag is made using the finest eco-friendly leather which has been vegetable tanned in Europe http://www.embellishedtruth.com
Estée-Rose London – Fashion, handmade bags and sustainable homewares form the core of Estée-Rose London by designer Jane King. http://www.esteerose.com
Yellow Dot Studio – Curated collection of hand crafted pieces of furniture, home decoration, gifts, cards and party supplies. An eclectic mix of treats to inject charm and personality into interiors, parties and life! http://www.yellowdotstudio.co.uk
Months of planning, discussing countless emails later we opened our doors in June and had the best time and met the most wonderful people of Henley (and other towns ) Two small babies, creating a new collection and curating a lifestyle shop where you found local independent labels, was not a picnic at the park but having the response we had was all worth it 💛