Bringing representatives from more than 65 countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas onto a single platform, the BRICS+ Fashion Summit marked an important milestone for Türkiye in strengthening the international standing of its national fashion industry. Parallel to the summit, held in Moscow at the end of August, Türkiye was represented at Moscow Fashion Week by renowned designer Emre Erdemoğlu.
While diplomatic relations established in the field of fashion continue to be one of the core principles of the BRICS+ Fashion Summit, the promotion of decentralization and cultural diversity takes center stage. The summit also holds strategic significance for Türkiye, a country with the potential to join BRICS as a partner.
Summit highlights respect for cultural diversity
Speaking at one of the summit’s plenary sessions focused on developing relevant manufacturing sectors within the fashion industry, Cem Altan, President of the International Apparel Federation, emphasized that collaboration allows emerging economies to leverage each other’s strengths. For instance, he noted, one country’s raw materials can be combined with another’s production capacity, or a country’s craftsmanship can be integrated with another’s digital retail infrastructure. “This enhances supply chain resilience and accelerates access to sustainable practices and new technologies,” he stated.
Özlem Şahin Ertaş, CEO of Modest Fashion Week, commented: “Our foundation organizes fashion week events. We are trying to do something that no one else has done before. Each time, we ask ourselves three questions: What values are we promoting? What solution are we offering to the industry? And what is the outcome of what we do? Today, we bring together over 60 countries, work with diverse government structures, and reach out to various audiences. At every event, we act with the aim of respecting cultural diversity.”
Designer Emre Erdemoğlu represented Türkiye at Fashion Week
A vivid example of this cultural diversity was Moscow Fashion Week, held concurrently with the BRICS+ Fashion Summit. The Russian capital hosted designers from India, China, South Africa, Guatemala, Russia, and many other countries. On the Moscow runways, Türkiye was represented by Emre Erdemoğlu, the signature designer behind the outfits of entertainment stars and celebrities such as Aras Bulut İynemli, Uraz Kaygılaroğlu, and Kenan Doğulu.
Designer Erdemoğlu said: “This event provided an invaluable opportunity to introduce our brand to an international audience and expand our network in the global fashion industry. It also offered a unique platform to showcase our collections alongside other prestigious designers, boosting brand recognition and credibility. Participating in Moscow Fashion Week not only inspired new ideas and collaborations, fostering creative evolution, but also strengthened our position in both European and Eurasian markets. Overall, it was a vital experience that continues to support and accelerate the growth of our brand.”