It is hard to keep up with an artform as diverse as fashion. The second you think you know it all, there’s something new on the block! From tropical prints to traditional forms of dyeing, our neighbour from down south, Sri Lanka, has a few fashion designers that are absolutely worth following. Here are 5 Sri Lankan fashion designers every fashion girl should know about!
1. Buddhi Batiks by Darshi Keerthisena
Buddhi Batiks, headed by Darshi Keerthisena is known for its contemporary take on batik. The traditional way of using wax to resist dye, gets a fresh new take by the designer as she includes it in resortwear, athleisure and sarees. We like the combination of colours that add a refreshing touch to the timeless tropical prints.
2. Maus by Annika Fernando
An interior designer by profession, Annika started Maus in 2013 as an organic ladieswear brand. Designed and produced in Sri Lanka, Maus presents three collections each other – summer, monsoon and fete. In 2016 Maus presented its first ever swimwear collection. We really like how the brand’s minimalist rationale reflects in their designs, complementing the tropical Sri Lankan lifestyle.
3. Amilani Perera
Amilani Perera’s eponymous brand aims to create chic ready to wear for women and at the same time, contribute to the protection of wildlife by using premium vegan materials. Amilani’s designs are well known for the use of Sri Lankan motifs, modern silhouettes and ramp to reality aesthetic. We like how the label has something to offer for just about any occasion!
4. Kasun by Kasun Gunawardena
Kasun’s earthy shades and sustainable approach are reason enough for us to love the label. The production of garments at Kasun is done with the help of local artisans using handwoven fabrics and cruelty free methods, making it an ethical brand. The label believes in minimalism and it reflects in their simple yet timeless designs. Owing to the versatile nature of the garments, the brand can be identified as an androgynous one!
5. KT Brown by Kanchana
Image: Source
KT Brown is beyond the basic designing and selling clothes to customers. Every dress is made with a single piece of fabric minimising the seams and each piece is valued as an artist would value his art. Multicultural and comfortable, Kanchana likes to design clothes for people who want to wear customised pieces and visit her boutique for an experience rather than just ‘buying’. The focus hence, is on the cut and drape! Not a mass market label, but KT Brown is for people who have some intellect and style.
