Arts

Oomph on the ramp

By Kaveesha Fernando

From that futuristic look to back in time; It was all there at the Emerging Designers fashion show by the graduating batch of the Academy of Design at the Sri Lanka Design Festival

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Olivia Sharmen

If you aren’t an expert on fashion design and chanced upon day three of the Mercedes Benz Fashion Runways, of the Sri Lanka Design Festival, you could be forgiven had you forgotten that the designers being showcased were from the graduating batch of the Academy of Design – and not professional designers. Having worked for months to present five looks (head to toe designs) each from thread to garment, this was their opportunity to prove that they had used the three years studying for a University of Northumbria degree in fashion design wisely to their parents, well-wishers and most importantly, members of the industry who were present at the show. There were designs which looked very futuristic and ones which took you back in time, with attention to detail in presentation and style.

Starting off the evening with eye-catching designs and upbeat music was Olivia Sharmen, whose Arabic themed designs gave the ramp a modern yet slightly Middle Eastern vibe. Dasni Wijayaratne’s collection of trendy kids’ wear was also quite a hit as were the little girls who modelled them. Amandi Weerasinghe’s collection of outfits urban and trendy looked like something which would be worn by someone taking their brand new bike out for a spin. Kajlani Mutaliph’s designs transported everyone back to the 80s, with music to fit the theme. Shehani Guruge’s evening wear outfits were quite a crowd pleaser as everyone enjoyed the intricate bead work which had gone into the designs. Also interesting were the evening wear designs of Muneera Illiyas which used different shades of pastel to create a very classy look.

Overall, it was an entertaining show with music that matched the mood and added an extra oomph to the already colourful and vibrant evening. With designs which ranged from contemporary to futuristic, the young hopefuls certainly made a statement on the ramp. The designs can be viewed on https://www.mbsrilankafashionrunways.com/pages/digital.