New designs with the formal and functi̇onal features of traditional cepkens

In Turkish culture, traditional clothing is one of the most important cultural values. Clothing, which initially arose from the need for protection and covering, has become a cultural treasure of societies over time, gaining functional characteristics. Traditional clothing has similar characteristics in every region; however, it is shaped according to the economic status, moral and value judgments, social norms, educational status, artistic and aesthetic understanding of societies. In this respect, one of the best ways to get to know societies is to research and examine the clothing culture of that society. One of the clothing pieces that has an important place in Turkish clothing culture is the cepken. Cepken is a type of short, collarless upper garment with slits and long sleeves, embroidered with mortar. Its examples in history were worn over a shirt, and depending on the age, social status and profession of the wearer, it was used with long-legged çakşır, knee çakşır, potur, shalwar, or even black cloth underpants. It has a straight-cut collar, a straight or cross-front, a short skirt that reaches the waist and long sleeves that fall to the upper hand. It has been observed that the formal features such as model, fabric, pattern and ornamentation, symbolic and cultural expressions, and functional features such as clothing purpose vary according to the regions and places where they are used. In order to be able to transfer this rich cultural heritage, which is used in very few regions under today's conditions, to the next generations, academic studies should be conducted and documented. Within the scope of this study, traditional cepkens, which are a part of our culture, were examined. This outerwear element, which is worn in almost every region of Turkey, shows similarities and differences according to the regions in terms of its formal and functional features. The aim of the study is to create awareness about traditional clothing, to ensure that traditional clothing elements are kept alive in new designs without disappearing or being forgotten, and thus to create an example in terms of sustainability. The secondary aim of the study is to contribute to today's fashion sense with newly designed clothes within the scope of the study, starting from cepkens, which are an important part of traditional clothing. For these purposes, cepkens were first examined according to the regions and their distinctive features were explained, original cepken and clothing designs were made and put into practice. For these purposes, cepkens were first examined according to the regions and their distinctive features were explained. Original cepken designs were created based on traditional cepkens according to the regions and put into practice. With the guidance of regional cepkens, 16 different designs were implemented by considering fabric, ornamentation, shape, sewing and new functional features, and were presented to art lovers with a personal exhibition and mini fashion show.