Fashion forerunners light up CFW ramp
There is a celebratory air about Colombo Fashion Week this time around. Marking a significant milestone of 20 years, the Summer Edition of CFW was held at the Shangri-La Colombo’s Grand Ballroom.
Under this year’s theme of ‘Inclusivity in Growth’, Day Three on Friday March 31 saw eight designers showcasing their collections. Opening the show was Sonali Dharmawardena. Known as one of the foremost exponents of the batik craft, her collection this season focussed on empowering women, circularity, and making meaningful clothing that can be utilised for a longer period of time. There was a message for our difficult times too, of perseverance to overcome every obstacle.
Sonali Dharmawardena escorted by the Lanerolle Brothers and her models and right, the saree from her debut collection at CFW in 2009
First up was a stunning batik saree, displayed previously in 2009 when Sonali made her debut at CFW, that had been lent by a client for display again. Sonali’s theme was clearly reflected in the colour palette of the garments that employed both dark and muted colours along with more vibrant shades of orange and ochre. With popular singers Ishan and Rohan De Lanerolle capturing the audience with renditions of ‘O Sole Mio’, ‘Unchained Melody’ and more, it was a dramatic start to the show.
Indi Yapa Abeywardena’s rainbow collection was created to represent inclusivity and challenge preconceptions and stereotypes. Her striking designs in pastels and neon hues with embellishments ranging from subtle to gleaming in soft draperies and opulent textures lit up the ramp while Umariya Sinhawansa performed Sam Smith and Kim Petras’ ‘Unholy’. Regional rural artisans contributed to her creations that were complemented with handcrafted components to promote small businesses.
On a palette of earthy colours of muddy red, golden yellow, green and black, Divya Jayawickrama’s collection was inspired by Sri Lankan cross culture through the use of cultural costume draping, colours, art and design. Staying with the sustainability theme, she used traditional handloom, dumbara weaving, handblock printing, hand crochet and jewellery making, with a focus on the zero waste method, ethical materials and empowering local communities.
Sharmila Ruberu of Meraki partnered with CFW’s confectionery brand for the event, Chupa Chups by Perfetti to present a lively display – her fun creations in bright, vibrant colours and sheer fabrics.
Known for bold and elegant statement pieces, Charini Suriyage’s collection paid tribute to strong women, capturing the dual sides of power and sensitivity, with empowering messages and symbols on many of her creations.
Dinushi Pamunuwa’s collection’s most distinct feature was the prominent use of Sinhala, Tamil and English lettering. Titled ‘Beauty in Diversity’, the batik designs were inspired by the cultural diversity of Sri Lanka and celebrated the different languages to commemorate Sri Lanka as a multicultural nation.
Featuring very distinct cuts, and drapes, Nilusha Maddumage’s eye-catching collection took the theme ‘chaos’. This season, her brand, AGARA, rearranged motifs and silhouettes as part of a sustainable line. The brand showcased sustainable and unique approaches to zero waste fashion.
Finally, it was a nostalgic return to CFW for prominent Indian couturier, Suneet Varma who had exhibited his designs at the very first Colombo Fashion Week 20 years ago. His elegant collection which closed the show featured frill accented garments, intricate patterns, voluminous silhouettes and opulent embellishments.
The show was choreographed by Arry Dabas and Nayanika Chatterjee and directed by Prasad Bidapa.
Divya Jayawickram
Indi Yapa Abeywardena
Sharmila Ruberu
Nilusha Maddumage
Charini Suriyage
Dinushi Pamunuwa
Nostalgic return to CFW: Indian designer Sumeet Varma
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