Very Best Turkish Cotton
We heard many uplifting stories during lockdown, not least the story behind the Ilkay Collection, which is both genuine and inspirational
Longridge based, Ilkay, the founder of Ilkay Collection, comes from humble beginnings in Turkey and has always had a passion for textiles from an early age, spending much of her time as a young girl at the local markets being mesmerised by the wonderful colours and fabrics. It is Ilkay’s passion to bring the very best of Turkish cotton to homes across the UK!
At the beginning of 2020, her partner Simon was made redundant and Ilkay, still working full-time, shared the idea of creating a luxury home linen brand made from superior Turkish cotton. They combined their knowledge of home textiles, and with all their savings, began working on product design.
Searching for the right supplier in a climate of wariness and travel restrictions was less than ideal, but they knew it was key in delivering a luxury brand.
Several trips were made to Denizli, near Pamukkale (meaning cotton castle in Turkish) a natural site in south western Turkey famous for a carbonated mineral left by the flowing water. These healing ancient thermal springs have been drawing people to the area for hundreds of years and are the inspiration for Ilkay Collection towels. Legend has it that the formations are solidified cotton, which happens to be the main crop in Denizli.
Ilkay Collection towels are finely crafted from 100 per cent long staple cotton with a zero-twist core, weighing a hefty 600 gsm, which becomes softer and loftier with every wash, giving that hotel and spa-quality feel. The branding for the collection was chosen to reflect the colours of the ancient springs and the warmth of Turkish hospitality, fittingly featuring the azures of Pamukkale.
But why Turkish cotton is the question Ilkay is often asked – when we are all so aware of Egyptian cotton – what is the difference? Ilkay explains: “Fibres of the cotton are longer and grown exclusively in the Aegean region. Long fibres mean they are softer than regular cotton and crafted with care from ancient cotton, which spins into strong and soft threads. The result is a much superior quality, extremely durable, long-lasting and highly absorbent towel. I am proud to share the heritage of Turkish cotton so everyone can enjoy a little bit of luxury in their homes, every day.”
Although it is a small start-up with a simple luxurious white towel collection, Ilkay believes passionately in supporting small businesses like herself and has added other luxury products locally from the Ribble Valley area, where they live, and small independent businesses across the UK.
This exciting journey has just begun, Ilkay and Simon are adding to the collection with grey towels and dressing gowns for a luxury spa experience to enjoy in the comfort of your home.
Trade enquiries: ilkaygregory@gmail.com
