Backstage BORA AKSU at London Fashion Week AW26

 

 

For AW26, Bora Aksu draws inspiration from an 18th-century folk tale: the story of Suki, a young barmaid whose life ends tragically in the caves of West Wickham. It’s a narrative of innocence, betrayal, and an enduring spirit — themes that feel unsettlingly relevant today.

 

 

 

Photos  Zuzu Valla


Backstage at Bora Aksu 

Words Rebekah Roy

 

 

Aksu translates Suki’s world into clothing that balances labour and fragility. Working-dress codes appear through tailored bodices, utilitarian aprons, and structured silhouettes, softened and disrupted by layers of tulle, silk organza with delicate polka dots, and fine voile that floats down the catwalk. The tension between function and fantasy is where the collection finds its emotional charge. Suki’s journey — her vulnerability and resilience — feels hauntingly familiar.

The live performance by Alison Sudol elevates the show into something almost sacred. Her voice fills St Paul’s Church, bringing the audience to a standstill — breath held, eyes wet. It’s breathtaking and deeply unsettling in the best way.

The finale leaves us suspended between hope and fury. Sudol’s closing lyrics land with chilling force:

“It feels like the world is ending now, I want to burn it to the ground never thought I’d have the guts for a revolution but I’m riding on the firehorse now, they want to take your voice, they go, they want to take your voice.”

It’s a moment of quiet revolution — grief turning into defiance.

Each look carries us through that emotional arc. The clothes are unmistakably Bora: Aksu romantic, melancholic, defiant. This is storytelling through fabric, and it lingers long after the final look leaves the catwalk.

Rebekah Roy

 

 

 

To boot…

 

BORA AKSU
@bora_aksu
www.boraaksu.com


PR @ab_comms

Show credits:
Music @alisonsudol
Creative Consultant & Styling @leithclark
Lead Make-up @_georginagraham_

Lead Hair @larrykinglondon