Istanbul: Next Stop after Beijing?

While browsing the interwebs, I happened upon Istanbul Street Style and Moda Turkiye, two websites focused the street scene in the second city of seven hills, capital of the Byzantines and the Ottomans. Suddenly, I am fired with a strong desire to see the place. Or I should say, to see it as a youngish man. I was there several times as a boy and the trips stand out mainly for the fake rolexes purchased there.

These websites make the city seem funky, unfettered, creative, and relaxed. The style and vibe of the people reminds me of Berlin. In recent years, I have visited Tel Aviv, Beirut, and Tehran, which were all dull and depressing compared to Istanbul. This is hardly surprising, given that their three countries are about to play leading roles in Armageddon, but I’m still surprised at just how Westernized and vibrant Istanbul seems compared to Beirut. Half of it is in Europe. Anyway, I must learn more.

My reaction to these websites is some proof that there is a business opportunity in linking street fashion websites to tourism.

Nels Frye is a freelance writer, photographer, consultant and stylist, based in Beijing. Focuses are on street style, other consumer trends, and broader social issues.

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