In a compelling gathering at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, celebrated fashion designer Erdem Moralioglu marked his twenty-year milestone in the industry. Against the backdrop of a wintry New York, the event, part of 'The Atelier with Alina Cho' series, provided attendees with an exclusive insight into Moralioglu's distinguished career. The designer, known for his eponymous label, delved into his creative process, the evolution of his brand, and the myriad influences that have shaped his signature style, alongside discussions of his recently published book, a testament to his artistic vision.
A Journey Through Design: Two Decades of Erdem's Vision
Despite the challenging New York weather, an eager audience converged at The Metropolitan Museum of Art for a special installment of 'The Atelier with Alina Cho'. This event featured a candid conversation with Erdem Moralioglu, the Canadian-born, London-based designer, who reflected on his 20-year journey in fashion. Dressed in a sharp navy ensemble, Moralioglu engaged in an intimate discussion held in the museum's Grace Rainey Rogers Auditorium. He shared insights into the inception of his label, his enduring passion for history, and even a newfound appreciation for the hockey series 'Heated Rivalry'. Moralioglu expressed his honor in participating in this event, noting its perfect timing with his 20th anniversary, and his long-standing friendship with Alina Cho.
During the engaging dialogue, Moralioglu reminisced about his early foray into fashion, including a childhood fascination with specific colors and the creation of his first dress for his sister's Barbie doll at the age of seven. He also recounted formative experiences during his time at London's Royal College of Art in the early 2000s, notably an internship with Vivienne Westwood, where he honed his craftsmanship. Moralioglu emphasized his lifelong passion for art and history as consistent sources of inspiration, citing diverse muses from Queen Elizabeth II to George Sand. This session illuminated the deep historical and artistic threads woven into the fabric of his brand, providing a comprehensive understanding of his unique design philosophy.
Literary Endeavors and Future Horizons: Erdem's Creative Expansion
Moralioglu's discussion also highlighted his recently launched book, a vibrant chronicle of his two decades in fashion, published by Rizzoli. This literary endeavor, which he thoroughly enjoyed creating, offers a non-linear collection of his ideas, sketches, behind-the-scenes glimpses of runway shows, and personal anecdotes from collaborators like Karen Elson and Hamish Bowles. The designer expressed his desire for the book to be an accessible window into his creative mind, allowing readers unfamiliar with his work to grasp his artistic vision and personal narrative. He articulated the thrill and personal significance of this published work, seeing it as a tangible representation of his innermost thoughts and inspirations.
Looking ahead, Moralioglu revealed his ongoing commitments, including his role as a trustee of the British Museum and preparations for his upcoming Spring 2026 show in London. He reflected on numerous career highlights that hold profound meaning for him, such as the publication of his book, his first window display at Barney's, and his initial Vogue cover. He also cherished the experiences of having his work featured in Costume Institute exhibitions. For Moralioglu, these milestones represent a rich tapestry of achievements, each contributing to a remarkable career that continues to evolve and inspire, underscoring his deep connection to the fashion world and beyond.
