I am a fashion and textile designer from Istanbul. Currently, in 2021 I completed the master's degree in "Fabrics Innovation Design" at Accademia Costume e Moda in Rome. I studied economics at METU in Ankara, Turkey then fashion design at Accademia Italiana in Florence, Italy.

After nine years of professional experience as a fashion designer in Istanbul, I created my own brand between 2009 and 2016. My style can be described as an eclectic mix of contemporary glamour and streetwear drawn from several influences that span from art, cinema, environment, and activism. I collaborated with international artists to create the patterns for prints and embroideries. 

I received Young Fashion Entrepreneur Award from British Council in 2010, the Re-Imagine Design Challange Award by C&A in 2012, and Mediterranean Fashion Prize from Maison Mode Mediterranee at Marseille in 2016. I attended Istanbul Fashion Week between 2009 to 2014, Berlin Fashion Week and Premium Berlin Fair in 2012, Who’s Next Fashion Fair in Paris in 2014 and 2016. Gunseli Turkay Brand was sold to designer boutiques and department stores in Istanbul, Hong Kong, Thailand, Beirut, and NY.

In 2020 I was offered a scholarship from Accademia Costume e Moda at Rome for the masters in Textile Innovation Design. With this master's program, I had the opportunity to update and deepen my knowledge of fabrics design, responsible innovation on materials and techniques (design, printing, and manipulations) with a cultural and artistic perception. I think the only way forward is to treat sustainability and design as equally important to lead the change within the fashion industry for a better planet.

Feel passionate to work in environments where I can connect different people, ideas, and cultures to create positive change for people, animals, and our planet.