These 5 Sri Lankan Designers Are Redefining Ceylon Fashion

KT BROWN BY KANCHANA THALPAWILA 

About KT Brown
“Our main focus is design reinforced with unique cuts and drapes. Most of our garments are made with a single piece of fabric using the shape of a square, circle or triangle as a foundation. We were also one of the first Sri Lankan brands after Ena De Silva and Barbara Sansoni  to work with the few remaining traditional weavers as most have been unable to sustain themselves and have moved on to conventional jobs.”

Design aesthetic
“I like to think of my design as unique and contemporary…driven by form. An outfit is as good as one feels in it. For me, ‘sexy’ goes beyond short; ‘stylish’ is more than merely being coated in branded merchandise.”

Inspiration
“It doesn’t have to be a particular element from a specific country. My inspiration comes from being aware of what’s going on around me. It also depends on my mood and interests at the time so it could be anything from old images to civil wars.”

Vision for the label
“Earn international recognition while retaining the ethical values we currently practice.”

Association with Paradise Road by Annika Fernando
“My association with Annika began even before the inception of PR. She was one of the first people who understood my design aesthetic, and I was one of the first designers she spoke to about opening a store in Colombo. My brand does not have a standalone retail outlet, and my designs are and will only be available at PR which is a testament of my special association with Annika.”

Next: LaPard by Dinushi Pamanuwa

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