Crochet in Turkish Culture
In Turkey, crochet is far more than a hobby. It is a cultural language passed from mother to daughter across generations. The tradition of oya -- delicate needle lace used to adorn headscarves, table linens, and clothing -- dates back centuries and carries deep social meaning.
In Anatolian villages, a woman's crochet skills were part of her identity. The patterns she chose for her dowry communicated messages about her feelings, her family, and her hopes. Each colour and motif had significance that the community understood.
Today, these techniques survive in the hands of women who learned them as children -- women who now apply their ancestral skills to contemporary fashion through Ana Chic.
Brighton's Creative DNA
Brighton has always attracted makers, artists, and independent thinkers. The city's North Laine and Lanes districts are home to dozens of independent shops, studios, and galleries where handmade and original work is valued above mass production.
This is the environment where Ana Chic was born. Founded by Ahmet and Zeynep, the brand sits at the intersection of Brighton's creative independence and Turkey's artisan heritage. The design process happens in Brighton -- drawing on the city's love of colour, individuality, and sustainability. The making happens in Turkey -- drawing on centuries of skill and tradition.
Where Two Worlds Meet
The collaboration works because it is genuine. Zeynep, who grew up in Turkey, understands both worlds intimately. She designs with knowledge of what the crochet technique can achieve, communicating with artisans in their own language, understanding the rhythm and limitations of handwork.
The design process starts in Brighton with colour palettes, silhouettes, and mood boards inspired by the British coast and contemporary fashion. These designs are then translated into crochet patterns that respect and utilise traditional techniques -- granny squares, motif assembly, hand-finishing.
Communication happens daily via WhatsApp. Photos of works in progress fly back and forth. Colour adjustments are made in real time. The result is a garment that feels distinctly modern but carries the warmth and character of a centuries-old craft.
What Makes This Collaboration Special
A Turkish artisan working alone would create beautiful traditional pieces -- but they might not translate to British streetwear. A Brighton designer working with a factory could create on-trend garments -- but they would lack the soul, texture, and individuality of handwork.
Together, something new emerges. A Mosaic Set that uses traditional granny square construction but in contemporary colour combinations. A Boho cardigan that drapes like a modern fashion piece but is stitched entirely by hand using techniques passed through three generations.
Neither culture alone would create these pieces. The magic is in the meeting point.
The Future of Cross-Cultural Craft
In a world of fast fashion and global uniformity, cross-cultural collaborations like Ana Chic offer something different -- garments that carry two stories, two traditions, and two perspectives in every stitch.
We believe the future of fashion is not in speed or scale, but in connection. Connection between maker and wearer, between tradition and innovation, between Brighton and Turkey.
Discover the pieces born from this collaboration. Browse our best sellers or read more about our story.