Dilara Findikoglu, a representative of the rebellious and nonconformist spirits in Turkish fashion, has made her mark in golden letters on the stage of the British Fashion Awards. By receiving the Vanguard Award, Dilara not only shook London but also Turkey, and she managed to draw all eyes to her with her 'rotten cherry' dress, which was the highlight of the night.
Let's delve into the details together.
Born in Istanbul and based in London, Dilara Findikoglu is currently one of the most rebellious and theatrical figures on the British fashion scene.
This designer, a graduate of Central Saint Martins, merges gothic and punk aesthetics with historical references and feminism. She designs corsets and Victorian silhouettes, creating a world that is harsh yet equally romantic.
While the London press hails her as 'the new favorite of the A-list, the leading role of rebellion aesthetics,' Dilara sees her very existence as a political stance. For her, emerging from Turkey and establishing her own brand in a male-dominated industry in London is a protest in and of itself.
When world-renowned celebrities want to dial up the 'drama' on the red carpet, on stage, in their music videos, or at their birthday parties, they turn to Dilara.
From Madonna's tour outfits to Lady Gaga's stage looks, many iconic figures favor Dilara's world that is both dark and fairytale-like. In short, Dilara Findikoglu is the Turkish designer who dresses today's biggest stars in Hollywood.
The Fashion Awards 2025, often referred to as the 'Oscars of the fashion world' (formerly known as the British Fashion Awards), took place on December 1 at the Royal Albert Hall in London.
This event, organized by the British Fashion Council, brings together the greatest designers, models, and cultural figures from both the British and global fashion scenes. Think of it as a grand assembly of fashion's finest.
The British Fashion Council describes the Vanguard award as a distinction given to a designer who is a trailblazer in British fashion, demonstrating visionary creativity and cultural leadership, with a global impact. And this year's Vanguard award was won by none other than Dilara herself.
Dilara, who made a significant impression at the 'Oscars of fashion,' expressed her gratitude in her acceptance speech. She said, 'I thank myself for never giving up, for continuing to believe, and my amazing team who create miracles every day. I dedicate this award to all the misfit souls out there.' Her 'rotten cherry' dress, in particular, became a sensation.