Your ultimate guide to exploring and writing about Turkey
In major cities like Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara, and Antalya, everyday clothing is very similar to what you'd see in any European city.
Modern & Western: Jeans, t-shirts, blouses, dresses, skirts, suits, and sneakers are ubiquitous.
Stylish: Turks, especially in cities, are generally very fashion-conscious. You'll see a lot of well-dressed people, with trends closely following (and often contributing to) international fashion.
Seasonal: Summers are hot, so light cotton, linen, and breathable fabrics are key. Winters, especially in Istanbul and central Anatolia, can be cold and rainy, requiring coats, boots, and layers.
Traditional attire is rarely worn daily but is common at cultural events, festivals, weddings, and tourist areas.
For Men:
Şalvar: Baggy trousers that are comfortable and traditional.
Yelek: A decorative waistcoat.
Kaftan: A long, elegant robe (historically for the elite).
For Women:
Bindallı: An elaborately embroidered velvet dress, often worn at henna nights and weddings.
Şalvar: Worn with a matching entari (tunic) or blouse.
Headscarves (Başörtüsü): Often richly decorated with lace or embroidery for special occasions, distinct from religious coverings.
Turkey has a significant population that observes Islamic dress codes, with a wide spectrum of interpretation.
Head Covering: The hijab (headscarf) is common. Styles range from simple, modern wraps to more conservative covers.
Çarşaf: A full, loose-fitting black cloak that covers the entire body. It is less common in cities but seen in some conservative rural areas and neighborhoods.
Abaya & Tesettür: The abaya (long outer garment) is increasingly popular, often in fashionable colors and cuts. Tesettür refers to the overall practice of modest Islamic dress, which has grown into a major domestic fashion industry with dedicated brands, magazines, and fashion shows.
Black Sea Region: Known for its distinctive folk dances and costumes, often featuring detailed silver jewelry and bold patterns.
Aegean & Mediterranean: Lighter, brighter colors reflecting the coastal climate.
Southeastern Anatolia: Influences from Kurdish and Arab cultures, with very colorful and heavily embroidered garments for women, and distinctive shalwar and headwear for men.
What to Pack as a Tourist:
Comfortable Shoes: Essential for cobblestones and exploring archaeological sites.
Modest Cover-ups: For visiting mosques (mandatory for everyone) and conservative neighborhoods. Women should carry a scarf to cover their head, and both men and women should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees (long skirts or trousers).
Layers: Weather can change, especially in spring and autumn.
Resort Wear: Perfect for coastal resorts like Antalya and Bodrum, where beachwear is acceptable only at the pool/beach.
Dress Code Etiquette:
Cities & Resorts: Very liberal. You can dress as you would at home.
Religious Sites: Strictly modest. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and tight clothing. Mosques provide loaner garments if needed.
Conservative Areas: In neighborhoods like Fatih (Istanbul) or rural Anatolia, dressing more conservatively (covering shoulders and knees) shows respect and will draw less attention.
Business Settings: Formal and professional, similar to European standards.
Turkey is a major global player in:
Textile & Denim Production: A powerhouse manufacturing hub for many international brands.
High Fashion & Design: Istanbul has a vibrant fashion week and renowned designers like Hakaan Yıldırım, Dice Kayek, and Bora Aksu.
Modest Fashion: Istanbul is considered one of the global capitals of the modest fashion industry.
In summary, clothing in Turkey tells a story of dual identity and synthesis. You can see a woman in a designer dress walking next to one in a chic tesettür coat, and a man in a sharp suit beside another in traditional şalvar. For visitors, the key is to dress for the specific context—liberal in most tourist areas, modest in places of worship and conservative regions.