LALELI WHOLESALE FASHION DISTRICT

Laleli has become one of Istanbul’s most popular wholesale hubs. With non-stop streets full of clothing vendors and models standing outside the stores showcasing the newest collections. From kidswear, womenswear, occasionwear and even bridal. It can be an overwhelming experience for those new to sourcing from Turkey but in this post, we are going to simplify this wholesale hub a bit better. If you thought Merter was big then brace yourself for Laleli. It’s like one big maze, each street and side road leads to another street of wholesalers. Its strategic location attracts millions of foreigners each year, which in turn means prices of wholesale products here will be considerably higher. Unlike Merter and Gungeron where prices are far more affordable, it’s unlikely you will come across a womenswear wholesaler in Laleli selling $6 tops and $10 dresses, remember this district is more high-end. Even fashion-forward styles like denim jeans, blouses, and women’s suits will start from $40-$90. The best thing however is you can buy your wholesale products and get them shipped out the same day as most cargo companies are located in the Laleli/fatih area.

Did I also mention 98% of the wholesalers in Laleli all speak fluent English. You won’t have to worry about hiring a fashion buyer or translator when sourcing from this district as the wholesalers are constantly communicating with buyers across the globe. Vendors here are more understanding, and patient and exhibit a high level of professionalism. I am yet to see a salesperson smoking inside a wholesaler in Laleli, whereas in Merter you could walk into a wholesaler full of cigarette smoke and unapproachable staff. If you don’t have a huge budget, I would’nt however recommend purchasing from Laleli just yet. Chances are 1 seri alone will set you back at least $100-$350 depending on the garments you’re looking to purchase. In contrast to Merter where you can buy 1 seri for as cheap as $30. Laleli however does offer both wholesale and retail, for example, most occasionwear and outwear can be purchased as retail. Most foreigners also come here to buy items such as wedding gowns which would usually cost a fortune in their home countries. I have seen some of the most beautiful wedding dresses retailing for as little as $300 in Laleli yet in London the same dress retailing for £10,000! It’s safe to say I will be purchasing all my wedding dresses for my big day in Turkey haha!

Luxury bridal wear is far cheaper to source from Turkey than anywhere else. A handmade wedding dress can retail for as cheap as $200-$600.

Another trade secret is most wholesalers in Laleli buy directly from Merter and resell at a markup cost. This is because most people are unaware of the Merter wholesale district. Therefore, as mentioned it’s always best to look around each wholesale hub and cross-examine products and prices before purchasing your inventory. Chances are the same dress you saw in Laleli will also be stocked in Merter for far less.

Kidswear

Laleli is also the main district for wholesale kidswear with prices starting from $3 for baby grows, $2.50 for kids tops, $3 for baby shoes, and $9 for dresses. If you are someone looking to start a Kidswear brand, laleli is the only wholesale district you’ll need to come to. Kidswear sizes range from 0-12 months all the way through to 16 years. The majority of kidswear wholesalers all speak English, with many vendors having websites you can purchase from direclty. Saving you the hassle and time of traveling down to Istanbul to see the products in person.

Just like the womenswear wholesalers, kidswear wholesalers release new stock weekly. There are even some wholesalers that have seven floors of stock and a separate depo with hundreds of new styles. My advise is would be to join the telegram channels of each of these vendors to keep upto date with new product releases. Laleli is also home to some of the most luxurious high-end kidswear. From bridesmaid, prom dresses to babyshowers. The prices of these items will be considerably higher, usually starting from $25 and upwards, however, most dresses will come with matching shoes or a purse. If you are planning to visit the kidswear wholesalers, you will find them located towards the lower streets of Laleli. The quickest way is walking up Hayriye Tuccari street which is located towards Yenikapi metro station.

Transportation

Getting to Laleli is super easy, the T1 tram will take you right infront the wholesalers. Aksaray is the main stop to get off, as the wholesalers are a 2 minute walk away. You can also get of at the following stop called Laleli Universite. This stop is located closer to the wedding and occasionwear wholesalers. If you are taking the train, make sure you get off at Yenikapi metro station, it’s a 3-minute walk to the Laleli wholesalers.