Meet the designers behind the divas

Twelve leading names in the fashion world will make a much-anticipated return to the ramp in Tuesday’s fashion show ‘The Divas are Back’. Geraldine Bandaranaike, Yoland Aluvihare, Veena Jayakody, Angela Seneviratne, Caryll Tozier, Sylvana Kapinsky, Neidra Williams, Pauline Basnayake, Roshanara de Silva, Lilani Wieprecht, Roshi Hirdaramani and Shirlene de Silva Chiba, all former models and title-holders of beauty pageants, are making a comeback to the ramp for a worthy cause.

The show in aid of the School for the Deaf and Blind, Ratmalana will be held on October 16 at the Galle Face Hotel, Colombo. It is conceptualised, coordinated and produced by fashion designer Lou Ching Wong with all hair and makeup being handled by the Lou Ching Wong Salon.

Seven of Sri Lanka’s best-known designers- Chrishanthi Fernandopulle, Purnima Abeyratne from Inspirations, Ruchira Silva of Rebel, Darshi Keerthisena of Buddhi Batiks, Yoland Aluvihare of the Yoland Collection, Lou Ching Wong and Dhammika Amarasekera too are coming together for this worthy cause.

Purnima Abeyratne of Inspirations fame who will present a collection of semi-casual outfits in bright and bold prints and colours said the designers felt they were doing something that is going to create public interest and support, as it is in aid of a worthy cause. “As designers, this is the only way that we can support those less fortunate and make a difference in the community.”

“My designs cater to a wide variety of sizes through an assortment of trendy designs of timeless appeal. This show gives me the opportunity to have veteran models parade my collection titled ‘Big, Bold and Beautiful’ creating a platform to showcase my latest evening wear designs in plus sizes,” said Ruchira Silva who designs under the Rebel label.

Darshi Keerthisena of Buddhi Batiks will present a collection catering to a more sophisticated niche market. “Exquisitely designed evening wear comprising Indian and Kandyan saris, of silk satin, silk chiffon and georgette embellished with sequins, embroidery and diamante. All of these will be of hand made batiks. I have created a different kind of look,” she said.

“This is my way of paying tribute to the sophisticated and glamorous woman who has carved a niche for herself in life. I want to emphasize the notion that regardless of age and size, it is important for a woman to look her best,” said Lou Ching Wong.

“I wanted to do something to help the less fortunate. Most of my employees are from underprivileged backgrounds and some are deaf and dumb. So this show means a lot to me on a personal level,” said Yoland Aluvihare, explaining her participation at the event.

The theme of Dhammika Amarasekera’s collection is ‘Autumn Nuances.’ featuring outfits in blended earthy shades as these are the colours she feels, suit the Sri Lankan skin tone. “I am excited about this show as it helps me to showcase my latest designs as well as gives me the opportunity of being altruistic,” she said.

Chrishanthi Fernandopulle said she was proud to be part of a worthy cause, where designers are uniting to create a truly unique and exceptional show. “I am sure that this will create an impact on Sri Lanka’s fashion scene,” she added. Tickets are available with Lou Ching Wong, Tel: 4518870/ 4512999, at the Pasticcino Pastry Shop, Galle Face Hotel, Colombo from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. and at the BT Store, Tel: 2555871.