Nela Penna: Dressing Strength in Silk
June 21, 2025
From the soulful streets of Istanbul to the minimalist cool of Berlin, Tuğçe Açelya carries the spirit of both cities in her step. She’s not just a model—she’s a storyteller in fabric, movement, and mood. Tuğçe opens up about identity, creativity, and what it truly means to live freely..
How do the influences of Istanbul and Berlin show up in your daily life and lifestyle?
Istanbul has a very special energy that touches me deeply – the warmth of the people, the sensuality in everyday life, the beautiful chaos that somehow makes you feel more alive. I feel more present there, more connected to myself and my surroundings. It simply does me good.
Berlin, on the other hand, has always felt more like a transitional space. It offers freedom and spaciousness, but also a certain emotional distance. I never truly felt at home there. Much of life feels functional, cool, and at times, emotionally out of reach. That, of course, shapes your daily life – you become more independent, but perhaps also a little more empty.
I try to carry the clarity and calm I learned in Berlin with me, and blend it with the warmth and vitality I find in Istanbul. But in the long run, my heart is pulling me back—I hope to live fully in Istanbul one day.
How would you describe your style in a few words? If you were to create a capsule collection reflecting your life philosophy, what would definitely be included?
I’d describe my style as effortless, grounded, and a touch poetic. I’m drawn to timeless pieces with subtle detail—something that whispers a story without trying too hard.
In a capsule collection, there would definitely be flowing fabrics, earthy tones, and relaxed silhouettes that allow for movement. A well-worn oversized shirt, a linen kaftan, something handwoven, and a few two-piece sets that mix and match with ease. Each piece would carry a sense of place—perhaps a detail from Istanbul, a texture drawn from nature, or a silhouette that simply feels like home. It wouldn’t demand attention, but it would feel utterly right—like something worn by someone entirely at ease with herself.
What has been the boldest fashion experiment you’ve ever tried? And what one piece of advice would you give to women who dream of living beyond others’ expectations but are afraid to begin?
My boldest fashion experiment was simply allowing myself to dress freely—combining elements that don’t traditionally go together or that people might not expect. For example, pairing something delicate and feminine with something more masculine or raw. At first, it felt risky because I knew not everyone would understand. But that tension—that creative friction—helped me express who I truly am.
To women who long to live outside the lines but feel afraid, I’d say: begin small, but begin. You don’t have to reinvent your world overnight. Try one thing that feels true to you, even if it scares you. Bit by bit, it builds confidence—and soon, you’re living in a space that’s entirely your own, without needing anyone’s approval.
Which type of physical activity has contributed the most to helping you stay in shape?
I combine jogging on my treadmill, Pilates, and boxing. Jogging helps build endurance and fits easily into my daily rhythm. Pilates develops strength and flexibility while enhancing body awareness. Boxing, though—it gives me energy, power, and a fierce mental clarity. It tones my body and sharpens my focus. This blend keeps me physically strong and mentally grounded—it’s the perfect balance of strength and serenity.
If you were to make a film about your life, what genre would it be and what would the title be?
It would likely be a blend of drama and magical realism—a story that intertwines real moments with poetic and unexpected elements. That’s how life often feels to me: rooted in the everyday, yet brushed with something dreamlike.
The title would be Between Two Worlds, because so much of my journey has been about weaving together different cultures, feelings, and identities—always seeking the place where I feel most whole.
Model: @tugce_acelya_
Photographer: @shustudioshu
Photographer: @nabin0201
MUA: @galina_make_up