This Istanbul-based luxury handbag brand, founded in 2008, offers quirky, colourful and innovative bags with made-to-order luggage also available. Founder Serra Türker’s first boutique opened in the historic Istanbul neighbourhood of Pera in 2012 and a second store was opened in Bodrum in 2014.

Born into a family of Ottoman art collectors, Begüm Kiroglu fuses her native Turkish style with influences from Shanghai, where she completed a masters degree in Chinese culture and art. Producing high-end artisanal jewellery with more than a touch of old-world glamour, her pieces are stocked at Assouline and the Beymen Zorlu Center.

Two eclectic brothers came together to build this freewheeling lifestyle brand in Istanbul – and the result is Sanayi 313. A multi-purpose space, it’s a furniture gallery selling home accessories, a fashion boutique selling a range of shoes and bags, as well as an on-site health-food restaurant; the top floor is reserved for the architectural business of the same name which have completed projects in Istanbul, New York, London, Riyadh, Doha and the French Alps.

This high-end fashion accessories label from Ipek Kocatepe supports indigenous craftsmanship in Turkey. Colourful purses and bags are made with 100% natural materials, as well as organic and non-chemical dyes and precious materials such as mother of pearl.

When the going gets tough, the tough hit Istanbul’s Spice Bazaar, the second biggest in the city after the Grand Bazaar. It does what the name suggests – so prepare to be sucked into a vortex of acquisitive frenzy and cardamom. Whether it’s dried fruit you want, ancient remedies, aphrodisiacs, cumin, saffron, thyme or any other powder or herb your heart desires, you’ll probably find it here. A good place to find oils, soaps and other products too. Prepare to bargain and lose a serious amount of time flitting from stall to stall.

A well-stocked, upmarket bookshop and café in Nişantaşı with a wide selection of publications in English and Turkish, plus rare and special editions aplenty.

In Turkish, “melez” means “mestizo” or “mixed” – and that is exactly what this lifestyle tea shop provides, with a wide selection of high quality artisanal teas, blended specifically to match your particular state. Also carries teaware and gifts.