17. TrooRa Magazine The Black History Issue Special ’23

The choice of the name Fanm Mon couldn’t be random. Fanm Mon is a Haitian phrase that means “peasant woman,” a nurturer intertwined with nature. The term is used to describe all these women rooted in their village’s upbringing. Demirtas has given a new interpretation to this colloquial expression. “Fanm Mon signifies the woman that nurtures and understands nature and is one of the most powerful beings on earth. For my brand, I wanted to highlight the feminine aspect of our culture, the significance of the Mon people, especially the women,” she highlights. After leaving Haiti at a very young age, Demirtas kept in mind the value of these women, and as she grew up understood that their spirit was universal. Her creations are works of art that stand out for their exquisite craftsmanship, unique embroidery, and romantic silhouettes, three characteristics of the brand. Everything is a thoughtful process with a focus on each step. “Design came into being a part of my daily life. First, I started the business on a made-to- order basis, and everything happened at a digestible pace for me, which helped the business become a part of my life and vice versa,” adds Demirtas. Everything is produced at her facility, which allows her to keep the orders on track. “Having our production atelier in Turkey allows me to compose my specific linen quality from scratch. The softness, durability, and breathable, lightweight linen texture is a result of making Fanm Mon’s linen from thread,” she explains.

“For my brand, I wanted to highlight the feminine aspect of our culture, the significance of the Mon people, especially the women”

260

Powered by