Global Shopping Guide: Istanbul

Follow Global Shopping Editor Dayna Spitz as she scores goods from Istanbul's famed Grand Bazaar and checks out some of the finest young designers in Turkey.

fashion
(Image credit: Marie Claire)

Shopping in Istanbul is a truly unique experience because it blends the best of both traditional and modern. You can hunt down treasures in the 4,500 shops in the Grand Bazaar, or wander around the narrow, winding streets in Galata in search of boutiques filled with talented, innovative and affordable young designers. It's not a surprise that the city was voted the 2010 European Capital of Culture. (Not to mention the Baklava is beyond outstanding!)

Grand Bazaar Shops:

IREM (Scarves)

Terpuscular No.11/13

*ask for Isa

email: iypasha@yahoo.com

ANTIQUE OBJET (Ikat textiles)

Kapahcarsi Zenneciler Caddesi No. 48/50

*ask for Onur

email: info@antiqobjet.com

PIRLANTA (Kilim accessories)

Keseciler Sk, No.106

email: osmanelbistano@yahoo.com

GULEC STONE TASCILIK (silver and semi-precious jewelry)

Bedesteni No. 268

*ask for Ali

email: aligulec1907@mynet.com

Leather Outlet:

DERIMOD (leather jackets, shoes and bags)

Several locations throughout Istanbul

derimod.com.tr

Galata/Beyoglu Area:

SIMAY BUIBUI (women's ready-to-wear leather design boutique)

Sahkulu bostan Sk. No. 22 Galata

sim-ay.com

BUKA (specializes in handmade patchowrk dresses)

Hayriye Caddesi No.18a

butikbuka.com

GLORIOUS (felt shop)

Kuledibi No.24

email: gloriousistanbul@hotmail.com

LAUNDROMAT (5 young fashion designers)

Galip Dede No.93B

laundromat-ist.com

Places to Stay:

HOUSE HOTEL GALATASARAY

A beautiful design boutique hotel in a restored mansion combining original architectural details mixed with modern elements.

Crowd: design hipsters

email: info@thehousehotel.com

PARK HYATT ISTANBUL-MACKA PALAS

Over the top luxury. One of the Hyatt's boutique premiere properties where beautiful design meets luxurious living.

Crowd: Jet-set world travelers

istanbul.park.hyatt.com/