Everyone knows that accessories can make or break an outfit. I always appreciate a good clutch bag. I look for unique pieces that are small enough to carry but big enough to hold all the essentials for a night out. I have found the perfect solution: SERRA TURKER. No, I’m not suggesting you carry her on a night out, I’m not sure she’ll appreciate you trying to stuff her with your lippy and Chanel No. 5. Serra is the creative director and founder behind the label Misela.

She was born and raised in Istanbul, studied at the Rhode Island School of Design, and now lives in New York City. Also a fan of the Big Apple (I’ve always said my heart is in New York) I ask Serra what she loves most about the vibrant city.

Why did you decide to move to New York?

I wanted to move to New York because it was the place that I know that I can pursue my dreams. New York is the place to live in because it offers so much to nurture you especially if you are in design.

What about New York inspires you?

I like the fact that New York is a clash of many cultures and this makes you feel like you are home. I don’t feel like a foreigner in New York. The energy and the possibilities are endless in New York, you can do anything!

What borough/part of the city do you like best?

Well, it is hard to say because it depends on your mood. I am more of a downtown girl however uptown can also be perfect for some days.

What are your favourite spots in the city?

Mercer Kitchen – upstairs cafe, walking around Nolita, Art Galleries in Chelsea, cute shops around Greenwich Village.

What are your 5 favourite places to shop at in New York?

Barneys New York, Rizzoli bookstore, ABC carpet & home, Jeffreys, Sucre.

What’s the best meal you’ve had in New York?

Bar Pitti, Bond St., Cafe Gitane, Tartine, Bilboquet – these are my top 5 favorites.

What’s the last show/exhibition you saw at New York?

I saw the Ron Arad exhibition at Moma.

Would you ever move back to Istanbul?

I travel back and forth to Istanbul because of my production in Istanbul. I would never want to live solely in Istanbul – New York feels like home.

If you didn’t live in NYC what other state do you see yourself living in?

I would probably live in the west coast, most probably Los Angeles.

Shop for MISELA here at DIA BOUTIQUE

Written by EKAETE INYANG

Images courtesy of SERRA TURKER