How South Caucasus Artisans Crafted GaSa’s 2026 AW Collection in 20-40 Days

Designer Galip Gasanov collaborated with artisans from the South Caucasus region to produce his Autumn/Winter 2026 collection, according to a Vogue Korea profile published June 19, 2026. The collection features hand-crafted carpets that require between 20 and 40 days of manual labor to complete a single piece.

The partnership focuses on integrating traditional textile arts into contemporary high fashion. Gasanov utilized the specialized skills of regional weavers to create the structural elements of the AW26 line.

How are the South Caucasus carpets integrated into the AW26 collection?

The textiles serve as the primary material for the Autumn/Winter 2026 garments. According to Vogue Korea, Gasanov worked directly with artisans in the South Caucasus to ensure the traditional weaving methods were preserved within the clothing’s design.

These carpets are not merely accessories but are central to the construction of the pieces. The process requires a significant time investment, with the source stating that a single carpet takes a minimum of 20 days and can take up to 40 days to finish.

What is the philosophy behind Gasanov’s “Right Fashion” approach?

Gasanov frames this collection under the concept of right fashion, as detailed by Vogue Korea. This philosophy emphasizes a shift away from mass production toward a model that values the labor and time of the creator.

By prioritizing the 20-to-40-day production cycle per textile, the designer rejects the rapid turnaround typical of the modern fashion industry. This approach aligns with the slow fashion movement, which prioritizes quality and ethical production over volume.

Why is the South Caucasus region significant for this collection?

The South Caucasus region, encompassing areas such as Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia, is historically recognized for its intricate carpet weaving traditions. Gasanov’s decision to source from this specific region leverages centuries of specialized textile knowledge.

This collaboration creates a contrast between industrial textile manufacturing and ancestral craftsmanship. While industrial looms can produce meters of fabric in minutes, the Gasanov AW26 pieces rely on a process where a single artisan may spend over a month on one component.

The result is a limited production run. Because the labor is so intensive, the number of available pieces in the collection is dictated by the physical capacity of the artisans rather than market demand.