Laleli has emerged as one of the most sought-after wholesale centers in Istanbul. The streets are bustling with clothing vendors, and models are often seen outside stores displaying the latest collections. The offerings range from children’s apparel to women’s fashion, occasion wear, and even bridal attire. For those unfamiliar with sourcing in Turkey, navigating this wholesale hub can be quite daunting; however, this article aims to clarify the experience. If you believed Merter was extensive, prepare yourself for the vastness of Laleli. It resembles a sprawling maze, with each street and alleyway leading to another array of wholesalers. Its prime location draws millions of international visitors annually, which consequently results in higher wholesale prices. In contrast to Merter and Gungoren, where prices tend to be more economical, it is rare to find a women’s clothing wholesaler in Laleli offering tops for $6 or dresses for $10, as this district caters to a more upscale market. Even trendy items such as denim jeans, blouses, and women’s suits typically start at prices ranging from $40 to $90. The advantage, however, is that you can purchase wholesale products and arrange for same-day shipping, as most cargo companies operate within the Laleli/Fatih area.

It is worth noting that 98% of the wholesalers in Laleli are fluent in English. This proficiency eliminates the need for hiring a fashion buyer or translator when sourcing from this district, as the wholesalers regularly engage with buyers from around the world. The vendors in this area demonstrate a greater level of understanding, patience, and professionalism. I have yet to encounter a salesperson smoking inside a wholesaler in Laleli, in stark contrast to Merter, where one might find a wholesaler filled with cigarette smoke and unapproachable staff. However, if you are working with a limited budget, I would advise against making purchases in Laleli at this time. The cost of a single seri can range from $100 to $350, depending on the garments you wish to acquire, whereas in Merter, a single seri can be purchased for as little as $30. Laleli does provide both wholesale and retail options; for instance, many occasion wear and outerwear items are available for retail purchase. Additionally, many foreigners visit this area to buy items such as wedding gowns, which would typically be very expensive in their home countries. I have observed exquisite wedding dresses available for as little as $300 in Laleli, while the same dress could retail for £10,000 in London. It is safe to say that I will be acquiring all my wedding dresses for my special day in Turkey.

Trade Secret

A further trade secret is that the majority of wholesalers in Laleli procure their goods directly from Merter and subsequently sell them at a higher price. This practice is largely due to the fact that many individuals are not familiar with the Merter wholesale district. Consequently, it is advisable to explore each wholesale center and compare products and prices prior to acquiring your inventory. It is likely that the same dress you encountered in Laleli will also be available in Merter at a significantly lower cost.

Kidswear

Laleli serves as the primary district for wholesale children’s clothing, with prices beginning at $3 for baby grows, $2.50 for children’s tops, $3 for baby shoes, and $9 for dresses. For those interested in establishing a kidswear brand, Laleli is the essential wholesale district to visit. The available sizes for kidswear range from 0-12 months up to 16 years. Most wholesalers in this area are proficient in English, and many vendors operate websites that allow for direct purchases, thereby eliminating the need for travel to Istanbul to view the products in person.

Similar to womenswear wholesalers, kidswear wholesalers introduce new inventory on a weekly basis. Some wholesalers even boast seven floors of stock along with a separate depot housing hundreds of new styles. It is advisable to join the Telegram channels of these vendors to stay informed about new product launches. Laleli also features some of the most luxurious high-end kidswear, including bridesmaid and prom dresses, as well as outfits for baby showers. The prices for these items tend to be significantly higher, typically starting at $25 and above; however, most dresses are accompanied by matching shoes or a purse. If you plan to visit the kidswear wholesalers, you will find them situated in the lower streets of Laleli. The most efficient route is to walk along Hayriye Tuccari Street, which is accessible from the Yenikapi metro station.

Transportation

Reaching Laleli is quite straightforward; the T1 tram will transport you directly to the vicinity of the wholesalers. The primary stop to disembark is Aksaray, from which the wholesalers are merely a two-minute walk away. Alternatively, you may choose to alight at the Laleli Universite stop, which is situated nearer to the wholesalers specializing in wedding and occasion wear. If you are traveling by train, ensure that you disembark at Yenikapi metro station, as it is only a three-minute walk to the Laleli wholesalers.

Best Hotels In Laleli

• Double Tree By Hilton Istanbul-Old town
• Raylin Istanbul Old City Special Category
• Ottomans Life Deluxe Hotel:
• Serai Hotel:
• Ramada Old City
• Beethoven:
• Ramada Istanbul Grand Bazaar
• Fimka Hotel:
• Dosso Dossi Hotel
• Corner Hotel Laleli
• Grand Washington Hotel