Mert Özyürekliler prepares migration-themed designs for Sydney

North Cyprus Turkish fashion designer Mert Özyürekliler is preparing to exhibit 10 designs from a new migration-themed collection at the Fabrics of Modern Australia event in Sydney in November, according to Türk Ajansı Kıbrıs (TAK), as reported by Yenidüzen.

Özyürekliler, founder of the Shirvanna label, also plans to present the complete collection at his first runway show in Cyprus in December, the report said.

Özyürekliler said the new work examines migration through objects left behind, letters, expectations of return and the experiences of people displaced from Cyprus and later generations. His research includes the forced displacements of 1974 and migration from Cyprus to Britain, Australia and other countries, he said.

The designer works from his grandfather’s former home in Akdoğan, using inherited and collected fabrics and materials in his designs.

His first official collection, Mandıra, drew on Mesarya, his family’s farming background and rural labour. It included sheep wool found in a torn quilt, according to the report. The collection was exhibited during Milan Fashion Week events in 2025 at a show organised by the World Sustainability Organisation.

Özyürekliler said he has researched Cypriot crafts for the past two to three years, including Lapta hesap işi and Lefkara work, and is reinterpreting the techniques in contemporary design. He said he eventually wants to pass endangered craft skills on to younger generations.

He also said he hopes to open a space in Nicosia to make his work more accessible, while continuing to produce designs himself rather than moving to a conventional boutique or large-brand model.