Arts
Trendy and Lankan @ one store
Urban Island, a lifestyle brand first launched on FashionMarket.lk, opened its flagship store this week.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of Dharmapala Mawatha opposite Town Hall, this new and unique celebration of contemporary tropical living contains a treasure trove of apparel, homeware, lighting, ceramics, plants, gift items and food items that showcase the best that modern Sri Lanka has to offer.
The store was opened on Monday by Colombo Mayor Rosy Senanayake and Mrs World 2018 Alice Lee Gianetta, alongside founder of AOD and FashionMarket.lk Linda Speldewinde and principal of AOD Karen Macleod.
Urban Island’s mantra of ‘contemporary tropical travel stories’ is reflected in the modern interpretations on traditional designs and concepts, and takes pride in the fact that all the products are manufactured in Sri Lanka.
From homeware and accessories made with traditional materials and methods to sarees that showcase the skilful handiwork of local craftspeople, Urban Island’s resident collection has both local and international appeal and represents the collaboration between modern trends and traditional craft that hope to carry Sri Lanka forward as a fashionable yet sustainable destination.
Partner brands have been carefully selected to reflect the sustainable contemporary design practices that are at the core of Urban Island. There are a wide variety of products available, from edible treats like artisan JAF Tea and organic products from Greenfield to handcrafted jewellery from Allure, swimwear from Aqua Life and upcycled fashion from the House of Lonali to name a few.
Pix by M.A. Pushpa Kumara
The store was launched as part of the ‘Innovation Island’ campaign for Sri Lanka in conjunction with AOD, Mercedes Benz Fashion Week and the Sri Lanka Design Festival.
The store is now open at 181, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 7 from 10 a.m. to 7p.m. To keep up to date with their many events and collaborations, see facebook.com/urbanislanddesign and instagram.com/urbanislanddesign
