SL up & coming fashion designer magazine inner pages

Page 2 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

SRI LANKA’S
UP & COMING

FASHION DESIGNER 2015

GRAND FINALE

Agenda

7.00 7.55 Profiles and TVCM of Sponsors
pm pm
Curtain Raiser
8.00 8.05
pm pm Introduction Video

8.05 8.10 Welcome Note, Profiles of ZA, Introduction Of judges
pm pm
1st Segment – Evening Wear ( Dedicated to Jewel Arena)
8.10 8.15
pm pm Entertainment

8.15 8.35 2nd Segment – Sports Wear
pm pm
Kamsin Segment
8.35 8.40
pm pm Introducing the Finalists

8.40 9.00 3rd Segment – casual wear (Dedicated to LICC jeans)
pm pm
Street to Home Project
9.00 9.15
pm pm Entertainment

9.15 9.25 4th Segment – Show Stopper
pm pm
Entertainment
9.25 9.50
pm pm Designers on Stage (announced with models)

9.50 9.55 Awards
pm pm
BREAK Best Evening Wear
Best Casual Wear
10.15 10.20 Best Sports Wear
pm pm Best show stopper Wear
Most Dedicated Designer
10.20 10.40 Fan favorite award by erbeLab
pm pm 2nd Runner up
1st Runner up
10.40 10.50 WINNER Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015
pm pm
Page 3 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7
10.50 11.00
pm pm

10.55 10.55
pm pm

Message from

Zainab Ammarah

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you for the seventh conservative
year of “Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer Awards 2015”.

My key objective and concept behind this competition is simple; to give
raw talent the chance to be noticed and open a few doors for them, to take
the first step through, and for designers who want to take it to the next
level to boost themselves to be recognized as young designers.

Zainab Ammarah There were no formal qualifications necessary and deliberately rules to
lax to accommodate talent in its most undeveloped form, for the simple
reason being that, most fashion competitions around the world choose
contestants who knows the basics of a design process, who have a very
clear point of view and have their own design aesthetic, which makes
them unique individuals with great talent. It’s not based on how successful
you are or how qualified you may be.

Creating a fashion competition along the lines that are followed by international fashion competitions
was a quite a challenge; And I have worked to the best of my ability to take it to that level. What sets it
apart from the rest of the-competitions in the country besides following international guidelines is that
every single participant is on an equal playing field. With an absolute genuine effort made to ensure
total transparency; I’m determined to ensure that talent wins, NOT polities.

From personal experience; I know how discouraging it can be, because the designers work so very hard
to make it to this point and when they find out that it was all a fix, it’s truly heart breaking. And this
competition is nothing without its integrity and purposeful seriousness and a clear vision that the best
get their chance in the limelight and the fashion industry as a whole and others sees the value hidden
in Sri Lanka!

My life completely changed when I won the “fashion designer of the year 2006” and I want the same for
designers on this show; ”A life changing experience” who will go on to greater things from this show,
just as the previous years’ designers.

I was told that I was absolutely crazy to do all the aforementioned; the concept and execution all on my
own! But I personally believe that every one of us has the power to effect change in people’s lives in a
positive or in a negative manner; all you need is to be passionate in wanting
to make a difference as an individual. As Howard Hughes once said, “Passion
can drive you crazy, but is there any other way to live”.

Inclusion, I would like to thank with all my heart, every single individual
(Sponsors, friends, family) especially my husband Farhaan Amanullah who
has lent a helping hand to make this event happen and sharing that passion
in wanting to make a difference!!!

Farhaan Amanullah

Page 4 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

“Sri Lanka’s Providing an Opportunity 22T00O1058
Up & Coming
Uplifting the life of designers who
Fashion have taken part & given them hope &
Designer” aspiration to be different from others in
Awards. the industry in upbringing their creative
designs based on their themes, boosted
A platform for their careers to an unbelievable level, a
young aspiring
designers to launch blessing in disguise.
their career or
brand into the Sri The Objective
Lanka’s Fashion
Design industry Searching for truly talented young
individuals of Sri Lanka, with less
support & aid them in reaching their
professional goals, to enable them
to understand their potential to be
a passionate, challenging & strong
professional in the fashion industry as a

fashion designer.

Looking at the deep cultural
differences

The show provides an equal opportunity
irrespective of cast, race, gender, or
social background & adhere to social
values & extend an opportunity to
designers to full fill their dreams and

aspirations. No bounds, no barriers. Just
a simple helping hand.

Page 5 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

7 consecutive years

WELL renowned judges

Astonishing designs

life changing

Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming

AwardsFashion Designer

Page 6 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

An equal platform

FfRooerratcLuhensaste Designed by

Beyond the reality, there are many Nikita Deane
talented young Citizens of Sri Lanka
who has less opportunity in realizing hearing & Vocally impaired
their potential to grow. This journey
that we started about 4 years back &
is to reach such youth who need Ashariya
support to make a change in their
lives. visually impaired

That is the main reason why, as a The show
part of the standards of project has provided
conduct, we have set the following opportunity for
guide lines in opening up our special needed
supporting hands to such less student’s to take
fortunate. part on equal

TTarluelnyted grounds

Lifeline project enable many changing
talented youth who even need more lives
support than the less fortunate.
That’s how we find young talent Page 7 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7
even among youth who has special
needs who wrote a new page in the
fashion design history. The show
has provided opportunity for special
needed student’s to take part on
equal grounds

Selection
procedure

Year after year as the number of entries grows
high, there is a tedious task assigned automatically
to the organizing committee in handing all the
applications, in browse through each application to
grasp the most important and necessary facts that
fit in to the Lifeline Projects Selection procedure as
indicated above.

Quarter Finals

To maintain the integrity of the show, the designers
are to sit for an examination, to sketch designs, to
the theme given and the highest would qualify to
the next round.

Semi Finals

In this round the judges interview the designers
along with their test papers, knowing and finding
their ability to market themselves… after this round
is there the finalists are selected for the grand
finale. It was so challenging that the judging panel
has to select 20 designers for the finals due to high
number of new talent.

Judging panel
for the Finale

It the last six years we have been able to get an
amazing Judging panel due to the international
standard that this competition is known for. Every
Judge who has taken part can recommend the show
based on their experience of the competitiveness,
quality of the show and the strict judging open
process which is totally transparent in the selection.
This show has not flaws for favouration`.

Page 8 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

a glimpse
of
2015

Page 9 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

a
glimpse

of
2015

quarter
finals

Page 10 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Page 11 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Page 12 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

a
glimpse

of
2015

semi
finals

Page 13 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Page 14 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Page 15 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

What Are The Ben- It creates a ripple effect
efits Of Fashion and inter-relationships in
Industry In our So- the job market
ciety Today?
The clothing industry contributes
a lot to the global economy. The
fashion retailers buy their stocks
Here are some of the significants from the fashion factory; the
of the fashion industry in our retailers put their sales proceeds
society in the bank; the accountants
and lawyers are employed by
the banks, and the retailers to
The fashion industry pro- manage their funds; the list goes
duces clothing on, and so is the chain. Take the
This is the obvious thing we can fashion world out of today’s
see. Clothes in whatever shapes economy, the global recession
and sizes are manufactured by will be 10 times what it is now.
certain people who work in the
clothing industry. Message from
The fashion industry Ramzi Rahaman
brings creativity and
Job creations innovation as well as cre- My association with Zainab
ates entrepreneurs Ammarah goes back when
By one way or another, some- she won the coveted title
body’s income comes from the of Fashion Designer of the
fashion industry. For example, I Year in 2006 where I was the
am writing this post today because Although most of the fashion Official Hair and Make-Up
I have a relationship with the fash- styles in today’s fashion shows
ion industry through my job. The are not wearable, yet they bring Partner for that show.
fashion industry employs people creative ideas of the individuals
both skilled and unskilled at home involved with the designs. The She has worked tirelessly to
or abroad to make the process fact that someone came up with bring a platform for the up
work. an idea of a garment to wear and coming young aspiring
however crazy it may look, is a designers for tonight’s show.
brilliant one; and it should be
The applauded. We are created dif- Ramzi’s Hair and Beauty
fashion in- ferently with different talents, Salons is happy and delighted
dustry includes re- colours, attitudes and tastes. If to be a partner for the show.
we are all doctors or lawyers,
the world will lack varieties I wish her well and success
tailers, multinationals, and it will be very boring. in all her endeavours for the
production houses, publish-
ers and more. All of these com- The same people future, not forgetting all
panies provide business to more that forget the young aspiring designers.
traditionally-accepted fields such importance of
as law, finance, and technology. All of you are winners tonight.
music classes in So sit back and enjoy this
school seem to evening of a show of par
Some of the biggest deals that em- forget that ev- excellence.
ploy JD- and MBA-holding folks come eryone learns Ramzi Rahaman
out of the fashion industry. and applies Managing Director
knowledge Ramzi’s (Pvt.) Ltd.

Page 16 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

differently. Not everyone has a and I will be wearing what our fore-
brain wired to code or do heart fathers wore back in time. Therefore,
surgery. Other people have a this brings us to the importance of
brain wired to create happiness fashion industry in our society today.
— simple, unadulterated happi- Time changes and so does every-
ness and awe. Those people are thing around us. In the past decade,
called creatives; they give us we have witnessed the evolution
art, architecture, music — and of technology. Almost everything
yes — fashion. Without individ- is now “I” – iPhone, iPad and so on.
uals dedicated to creating beau- The same thing is with the fashion
ty through art, we would live in styles and the industry. We have
one seriously boring world. The gone from clothing covering our
fashion industry employs those legs and arms and necks to wearing
artists, and affords them the skimpy and next to nothing all in the
chance to be entrepreneurs in name of fashion. This is the result of
their own right. imaginations and innovations.

If you are not inspired by the cre- Though commercialised, the fashion
ative idea of an 11-year-old fashion industry has done a tremendous job
entrepreneur, Moziah Bridge, with by helping us to cover our nakedness
his Mo’s Bow ties, I don’t know what as well as bring styles and trends to
will inspire you. There is a Mo Bows the table.
and others like him today because of Borrowing some leaves from Huff
the fashion industry. Post Style, the fashion industry is
the most glamorous and yet least
Looking down upon the indus- favoured of the industries.
try does not show intellect, but
evidences a lack of understand- The fashion industry is often
ing that the industry is part of the most glamorous and un-
a larger ecosystem, one that derrated of industries. While
employs millions of people in almost every individual is a
production, public relations, direct customer of the fashion
art, textiles, finance, law, and industry by frequenting retail-
dozens of other industries. ers or buying from vintage
shops, many of those same cus-
The Importance Of tomers look at the industry as
Fashion Industry one made up of hobbyists and
In Our Society shallow women. It evokes the
scene from the film Devil Wears
Simply put, we all wear clothes Prada when Miranda Priestly
whether they are made by famous takes the time out to explain to
fashion designers or ordinary people. her new assistant that whether
Certain people are responsible for you value fashion or not, you
what you are wearing today. Certain are a part of the ecosystem
people provide the facilities for mak- and you buy into it with every
ing the clothing we wear. Without purchase.
these facilities or facilitators, you

Page 17 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

top 20 finalists of 2015

contestants

Himasha Gomez - Age 23 Imasha Perera - Age

I have successfully completed two academic I’m from Dehiwala and a second year fashion
years of my fashion designing and product designing student at Open University. I’m a doll
collector. I design outfits for barbies by which
development degree programme at OUSL. I’m I started my career as a designer. Fashion for
really impressed about Sri Lankan Up And Com- me it like science because I am a crazy designer
ing Fashion Designing contest as this is a good who love to do something new. Sri Lanka’s Up
opportunity for youth like us who has a heartly and Coming Fashion Designer contest is my first
contest. It’s a good opportunity for beginners
passion to be a one of a kind fashion designer like me. It trains us for the industry through a
one day in the fashion industry. There is no good teacher like Zainab Ammarah.

doubt that this contest helped me to develop Iroshi Thamara - Age
my skills such as leadership, hard work and
I have completed The Certificates in Fashion
time management etc. I really like to thank our & Textile Designing at Sri Lanka Foundation
mentor Mrs. Zainab Ammarah who helped us in and currently following the “Fashion Design &
Textile” at the “Academy of Multimedia Design
all means to come up on this stage. This event and Technology”. Zainab Ammarah’s Sri Lanka’s
would definitely benefit us to establish a promi- Up & Coming Fashion Designer” competition
has been quite the experience and I am happy
nent position in Fashion Industry in SL. with the progress I have made during its course.
It was a definite treat to work with so many
Aelesha Ismail - Age 21 likeminded individuals sharing the same passion
as myself and not to mention being mentored
I’m a fashion student studying at Raffles Design by some of the top people in the business.
Institute Colombo and I will be done with my
third year this December. Fashion has always
been a great love of mine and I can’t think of

anything else that I would rather be doing with
my life. This competition has been super excit-
ing so far and I am sure will prove to be one of
the greatest experiences that I will ever had in
my life. I try to live by the quote “Work until you
no longer have to introduce yourself’” and I am

working hard towards that goal.

Shanika Perera - Age

I’m a student at AMDT. Fashion has been a part
of my life ever since I was a child but I never had

the courage to put myself out there, but today
thanks to Zainab Amaarah’s competition “Sri

Lanka’s Up and Coming Fashion Designer”, I was
given a platform to present my skills and test my

own abilities. Here’s a great big thanks to the
show and good luck to all my competitors.

Page 18 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Page 19 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Page 20 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

top 20 finalists of 2015

contestants

Raima Marikar - Age 19 Suzan Silva - Age 25

I just finished my AL’s and am waiting around Even though my passion for designing started
for my results. I’ve always wanted to be a fash- during school times where I was a student at the
ion designer.  It’s like making art come to life on Convent of Our Lady of Victories. My foundation
the human body. As a designer, Sri Lanka’s Up was set, after starting a Fashion Design Diploma
and Coming Fashion Designer Competition pro- at Lanka Institute of Fashion Technology (LIFT).
vided me the first step into this business. I think I’m currently working as Fit & Construction
this show is a great stepping stone to the path Executive at MAS Linea Intimo, while complet-
of success. Zainab Ammarah is a great mentor, I ing higher studies at the Open University. It’s
kid you not. For all the trouble we give her (yes my great pleasure to recall the support and
we even text her at midnight); she responds to guidance given by Zainab Ammarah to make
us and personally handles us regardless of the this event a success and I do love to work with
her and this competition will add a memorable
time.  experience to my life as an Innovative, Dynamic
Fashion Designer.
Nadeesha Wimalaratne - Age 25
Nilushika Dias - Age 25
Currently studying at the Lanka Institute of Fashion
Technology while being employed at Hameedias PVT I recently completed my degree in the field of
Ltd. Contributing with my expertise as a  Designer for Fashion Design and Product Development at the
the last two and half years. Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming University of Moratuwa. I was especially lucky
Fashion Designer 2015’ isn’t just another competition. to have two internships at MAS Linea Aqua
and Brandix Intimate Apparel. Recently I started
Here you actually get the expertise and knowledge my first job as a designer at Trans-Merch Appar-
to gather your design elements to create an unique el (Pvt) Ltd. Moreover, indisputably it is a great
identity to bring yourself up within this challenging opportunity to participate in this fashion awards
Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015.
industry. Definitely; it will help me expand my horizon as
a designer.
Dharani Wasundara - Age 25

As I know I am a lucky girl to be selected to
this fashion competition, because I love this
competition and I was interested in it since 2012.
I have been dreaming to become a fashion de-
signer ever since. Now I am happy as my dream
came true. I graduated from The University of
Moratuwa in 2015.  I am sure this opportunity
can whisk away to a newer future from this
present position. This is a great ovation for me
and it will give my parents a sense of pride. I am
so happy for the opportunity to be seen as a

skillful designer.

Page 21 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

top 20 finalists of 2015

contestants

Rushini Perera - Age 22 SI’mava istWudeinctkorfmMoaraatruawca hUncihveir s-itِAy ign emy24th

I am a graduate from the Edith Cowan University year.  I’m currently completing my internship
having completed the Bachelors in Business at the NIKE Technical of MAS Active Nirmaana.
I consider myself (and also better known) as
Management & Marketing. My future ambition the luckiest in this competition since my entry
is to be an Entrepreneur with my own fashion had been a record breaking one being selected
label. My designer vision is to be a unique styl- as the 51st of the top 50 on the night before
ist, creating fashion with fine lines & a classy the quarter finals! Zainab Ammarah has been
touch that any individual could be comfortable my good luck charm ever since she spotted my
& confident to wear. I have taken my first step sketches among others and decided to let me in
as a quarter-finalist. I fervently hope it’ll never
towards my designing career by taking part in Sri run out in the fashion arena especially before
Lanka’s Up and Coming Fashion Designer of the the end of this competition in which I’m striving
year 2015. Being a new comer myself in the fash- to prove myself to stand out being evidence
for the fact that Ammarah was right all along
ion industry, we are truly grateful to Ammarah that night when she dialed my number to say I
for organizing such a platform for us newcom- was in!
ers. I have indeed learned a lot and hope to do
the best I could to be a unique designer not only Janani Siriwardana Age 22
to the country but also to the world, making my
I have a diploma in fashion design from the
country proud. Istituto Marangoni, Milan Italy. I am an Internee
at Buddhi Batiks. It is a way for me to express
Nusky Nayeem – Age 18 my love for art by bringing it into life through
the creation of clothes. It’s a race against time
I reside in Dehiwela and completed my first year filled with excitement and nervousness! Work-
of Cambridge Advanced Level Examinations ing towards the goal of creating the final outfits
is a tough challenge. This competition is helping
very recently and also have plans of carrying out me to improve the way my mind as a designer
a degree in Fashion Designing in the future. In works. It is a great experience, with so much
fact, this show is an absolutely amazing idea more valuable knowledge regarding the world
with ample opportunity to overcome the of fashion to be gained along the way.
obstructions that we’d have to face on our

journey towards the world of Fashion at present
for young people like us. Moreover, Ammarah
is doing an unquestionably phenomenal task at
changing so many lives to the better, and she

will always have my support and prayers to keep
continuing this one of a kind and splendid show.

Trust me when I say this show is like no other!
Peace!

Kishi -Age 24

I am involved in our family business which is
into garments and textile imports. My love for

fashion is unexplainable. This show has been
one of my benchmarks in my career which I
will always cherish. Though all of us may not

win, we have learnt so much for the last whole
month of mentoring from Ammarah which no
other education or job would have taught and
I’m thankful beyond words for this wonderful

experience.

Page 22 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

top 20 finalists of 2015

contestants

Maleesha  - Age 21 Manoshi Hansapani - Age 25

As a first milestone of my fashion designing I’m a recent graduate from the University of
career I got a diploma from Ranliya institute. Af- Moratuwa with a B.Design (Hons.) degree in
Fashion Design and Product Development. My
ter that I received an opportunity to work with forte is to develop modern looking glamour and
Mr.Micheal Wijesooriy. I have being waiting royalty. With the new exposure and experience
so long to be a part of Zainab Ammarah Sri I’m gaining through the competition, I hope to
continue my work as a fashion designer under
Lankan’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 my own label, making a difference in the world
Competition. Becoming one of the finalists is a of fashion.
great achievement for me and I’m hoping to do
Theja Siriwardena -
my best this time too.
I did my higher studies in fashion at Lanka
Wageesha - Age 19 Institute of Fashion Technology and currently
working as a product development executive
I just finished my A/L’s and currently awaiting com designer at Hameedia stores pvt Ltd. Sri
results. I think fashion is exciting and I adore the Lanka’s  Up & Coming Fashion Designer Com-
creativity that I find in its different levels. Thanks petition which I believe as the perfect platform
to Zainab Ammarah’s “Sri Lanka’s Up and Com- to  the upcoming designers. It’s one of the best
ing Fashion Designer 2015” I got the opportunity experiences that I had gained to work with a
to set my creative side free. I’m really happy and talented designer as Zainab and then to share
her vast knowledge in order to improve our
proud to be a part of this amazing event. Also design skills as well.
good luck to all the other designers.

Page23 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Page 24 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

y and tight patternZExacliunsiavebCoAllmecmtiaonrfarohm
coupled with the
Textures of gorgeous textiles
shear beaut
s of weaving. The results are amazing.

Page25 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

EZxacliunsiavebCoAllmecmtiaonrfarohm

For custom made outfits please consult
Zainab Ammarah on

+94 777 22 3682

[email protected]

Page 26 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

memory among in the most fashionable sense
brought to life Sri Lankans
Inspired by local talent, an ever lasting

Page27 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

y and tight patternTextures of gorgeous textiles
coupled with the shear beaut
s of weaving. The results are amazing.

Page 28 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

ZExacliunsiavebCoAllmecmtiaonrfarohm

For custom made outfits please consult
Zainab Ammarah on

+94 777 22 3682

[email protected]

Page29 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

The 3 Important Labor Statistics, there were 21,500 Trends of 2016
Facts for Being a jobs for fashion designers in 2010.
The experts anticipate that number Paris has unleashed something of
will remain constant for at least 10 an urban safari on our wardrobes
Fashion Designer years. Of those jobs, the majority are for the spring/summer 2016 sea-
Fashion designers are often thought located in New York and California. son - palm prints, lush embroider-
of as creative individuals who live That means you should plan to move ies and exotic punches of color to
glamorous lives surrounded by leggy if you want to work for one of the compound the point. Khaki and
models and entertainment super- big fashion houses. If moving is camouflage thrown in there too,
stars. While models and hobnobbing not in your future, you can still find the city is tapping into its wilder
are parts of the industry, the career fashion jobs in other parts of the side. As the spring/summer 2016
of the average fashion designer is country, but expect competition to shows came to an end, talk turned
a lot more down-to-earth and filled be stiff. You also can choose to ap- to the emerging trends of the sea-
with hard, yet rewarding work. Be- proach a fashion design son. From big and bold earrings
fore you decide fashion design is the and shoulder show-offs to all eyes
perfect job for on the lingerie drawer.
you, learn more Last Word got the jeans (rigid, non-stretch
about the fash- denim is here to stay), lived in
ion industry. Even though the number of the “Antwerpen” slogan T-shirt,
fawned over that floral day dress,
Skills available fashion designer jobs blown our pay packet on the over-
While fashion is small in comparison to the sized motocross leather jacket,
designers must number of people who dream and now we have our eye firmly
be creative, of a career in the field, the same on those glossy thigh high boots
they also need skills and talents needed to be a from spring/summer 2016.
to understand designer can be used in related Sightings of that Prada wavy-
basic produc- occupations, such as merchan- print coat, Gucci’s swishy pleated
tion, marketing disers, tailors, art directors, per- dresses and (of course) Celiné’s
and business sonal stylists, boutique owners latest sneakers, plucked straight
concepts. or managers. from the Mount Street store. This
Whether a de- year, expect to see a more femi-
signer works as nine edge to the fashion at the
part of a team gallery stands - frills, pleats and
for a large ladylike silhouettes are the calling
manufacturer card of the world’s most powerful
or apparel collectors and gallery directors.
company or pinches pennies as a Education Milan took a deep-sea dive for
freelance designer who answers A fashion design career need not spring/summer 2016, drawing on
only to the client, she needs to require a college degree; however, everything from beach parties and
understand how the cost of creating some college courses in business, pirates, to exotic encrustations,
a garment relates to price the item marketing and computer-aided shell embellishment, fishy motifs
will sell for. Fashion is a business design, or CAD, are prefect accom- and rope fastenings. Take a plunge
that won’t stay profitable without a paniments to even the most creative into the new season now..
trained eye toward managing cost and forward-thinking designers.
and a consummate understanding Art courses will aid in sharing your
of how to market products to the designs with others, and basic
desired market. textiles training will expand your
understanding of what fabrics will
Demographics work best for which designs.
According to the U.S. Bureau of

Page 30 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Page 31 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Page 32 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Page33 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Page 34 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

2008

Panel of Judges

Rosy Senanayake

Former Mrs. World

George Regurokos

FCasahlivoinnDKesliegniner
Donna Karen
Ralph Lauren

Lilamani Dias
Managing Director
Lintas
WickTrhaumshanaraayake
Country Manager
Marks & Spencer

Rehan lakhani

PHageel3aD5 iCre-lcotSotrhri Linangka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

2009

Panel of Judges

Champika De SIlva

ViCcotuonrtiray ’Ms aSneagcerret

Vindhya Jayasinghe
Country Manager
TESCO

Gwyn Williams
Managing Director
NEXT
WickTrhaumshanaraayake
Country Manager
Marks & Spencer’s
Vincent Silva

Page 36 - Sri LCaonuknat’NsryUIKMpEa&nCagoemring Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Page37 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Page 38 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

2010

Panel of Judges

Elayne Marando
Merchandising Director
Victoria’s Secret
Rob Chatwin
Product Manager
NEXT
Parveen Herath
Business Unit Manager
Marks & Spencer
Ishan Ranasinghe
Product Manager
Page39 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming FashNioInKDEesigner 2015 - Issue 7

2011

Panel of Judges

Viran Perera
Vice President

Victoria’s Secret

Gwyn Williams

RegioNnaElXDTirector

Parveen Herath
Business Unit Manager
Marks & Spencer
Sarojini Nallathamby
Product Analyst

Page 40 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion DesignerN20IK15E- Issue 7

Page 41 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Page 42 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

2012

Panel of Judges

BuDlaatkhsshininhiala

Global Kidswear Category Manager

NEXT

Danny Mc Atamney
VP / Country Manager
Victoria’s Secret

Chanaka Perera

RegioNnaElXDTirector

Vincent Silva

Page43 - Sri Lanka’s Up & CominCgoFuanstNhryioIKMn EaDneasgigenrer 2015 - Issue 7

2014

Panel of Judges

Wilhelm Elias
General Manager
NEXT
Louise Parsons
Country Manager
George Asda

Azam Habib

Managing Director

A Nationz

Rod Hobbs

Country Manager

Victoria’s Secret

Thushara Wickramanayaka

Page 44 - SMri LaCaornkuknast’sr&yUMpSa&pneCagonemcrienrg Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Page45 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Danushika

Winner 2014

success stories I’m a final year fashion
student in the university
from the past of Moratuwa. By winning
Zainab Ammarah’s up and
contestants coming fashion designer
2014 contest, I was able
to step into a whole new
world of fashion. The trip
to Europe enlightened my
fashion scenes and I was
able make many foreign
connections which may
help my fashion career in
near future. The contest
gave me a job opportunity
while still studying. And
I can do lots of custom
designing due to the
popularity I received from
the show. I’m planning to
launch my own brand soon.
Thank you Ammarah for
this great contest.

Page 46 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Udara Asma Wazeer Thilini Biyanga
Wickramarathne Thathsarani Subasinghe
Top 20 Finalists 2014
Top 20 Finalists 2014 Winner 2012 Most Dedicated
Designer 2012

After successfully Participating in the Up and As the winner of Zainab I remember that show as a
completing the Advanced Coming Fashion Designer Ammarah’s Up and Coming great experience that I had
Diploma in Fashion Design, 2014 was one of the most Fashion Designer of the just before my final year at
I was selected as a student life changing experiences year 2012; it was truly a the University. And winning
intern at Mast Global (Far for an amateur designer remarkable milestone the title - “Most Dedicated
East) Ltd; and it was during like me whose dream is to in my life as a fashion Designer in the year 2012”
that time that I took part make a name in the fashion designer. As a reward of was the best part of it all.
in Zainab Ammarah’s Up & industry. The exposure, the competition I was I felt that it was the best
Coming Fashion Designer pressure and the personal able to visit and learn award that I could have
2014 and was selected as mentoring gave me an from world leading and received in such an event,
a finalist to take part in insight to how the industry most expensive fashion a life changing one, indeed.
the grand finale, which works. It helped me to manufacturers in France. And that encouraged me
was a great opportunity streamline my future goals In the meantime I got the throughout my career. I
for me to gain exposure and put me in the right opportunity to receive an work as a Designer at MAS
and experience. After track in developing my internship from Hidaramani Linea Aqua PVT. Ltd. and
the 6 month internship, I skills. All this has given me Design Center, Sri Lanka. I’m extremely thankful
joined Mast as an Assistant enough confidence to work A remarkable collection to Ammarah for this
Merchandiser for Victoria’s on developing a brand of of sport casual wear was wonderful experience.
Secret for a year until I my own. done by me because of the
joined The University of great knowledge I got from
Northampton in the UK the above experiences and
in order to complete my finally fortunate to start my
Degree in Fashion Design. carrier in MAS Intimo pvt.
Ltd.

Leader in Public Relations
www.prwiresl.com

Speak to the Founder and Managing Director
Ashan Kumar on +94 771 559 264

Page47 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Ayodhya Kalzana Nichole Uwani Nilushi De Costa
Ratnayake Fernando
Top 18 Finalists 2010 First Runners up &
Winner 2011 Top 16 Finalists 2011 and Most Dedicated Best Cocktail Wear
Designer award 2011
2011

Grabbing the title of My journey as a fashion I contested initially at Participating in Zainab
Zainab Ammarah’s Up and designer started when I Zainab Ammarah’s show Ammarah’s Up & Coming
Coming Designer of the was just 17 years old. I sent in 2010 while I worked at Fashion Designer of the
year 2011 was definitely in my entries in for Zainab an Insurance company, year 2011 awards and
the stepping stone to Ammarah’s Up and Coming having no knowledge or receiving the First runner
building my dreams and Fashion Designer of the qualifications of Fashion up and the best cocktail
transforming them into year 2011 and ended up Designing. The experience wear awards laid a
reality. The competition being selected as one of I had all throughout the foundation stone to pursue
not only provided a the 16 finalists that year. show was extremely my career in fashion. At
myriad of opportunities The experience I gained exciting. The journey of first I thought fashion
but also a platform to from the competition; I a month, working closely designing is just about
explore my potential and have carried with me ever with Ammarah was sure sketching but participating
push boundaries in to since. I learnt so much, tough, but gave me the in the competition made
expressing my individuality which helped me greatly clear picture on how me realize that it takes
as a designer. I felt that to peruse my career as a the fashion business is. more than sketching to
the participation itself fashion designer. I’m 21 Along with the certificate create an extraordinary,
helped each and every one now and completing my I received from the show, fashion forward collection
of us to benefit from the final year of my 2 year I started my career at which in turn paved the
opportunity by challenging edexcel HND in Fashion Hela Clothing Pvt Ltd. I way for me to study
ourselves. Design from the Academy contested again in 2011 and fashion designing at
of Multimedia Design won the award for ‘Most the Academy of Design,
and Technology. I’m also Dedicated Designer’. Today Colombo. My academic
working as a designer at a I work as a merchandiser final collection strongly
joint venture company of and also carry out my expresses my sense of style
Brandix, Orient Design pvt. designing for my own label in fashion where I have
Ltd. ‘Burgundy’ for Women’s produced a contemporary,
occasion wear. With the sophisticated and a
experience I gathered feminine line of clothing
from Ammarah’s shows, with beautiful floral prints.
I was able to conduct a
fashion show for Levis
Spring Summer 2014 in July
2013 at the Levis Vendor
Summit held in Sri Lanka.
The show has helped me
in many a ways to become
the designer I am today.
It’s been a tremendous
guiding force for the field
of Fashion in Sri Lanka.

Page 48 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

Raffealla Maria Charith Sammani
Fernando Kumaraperuma Wijesekara Pathiranagama

Winner 2010 top 20 finalists of Winner 2009 Top 20 Finalists 2008
2010

Being the winner of Zainab Design was the career I had Stepping into the Fashion My entire journey started
Ammarah’s Sri Lanka’s chosen for my self even Industry at the age of 20, with Ammarah’s Sri Lanka’s
Up and Coming Designer before I had completed I faced many challenges, Up and Coming Designer
Awards 2010 was one of my my schooling. Soon after obstacles and strived to Awards 2008 which
life changing experiences. school, I took part in the the position I am currently brought out the designer
It has been a long and competition to get a feel today with the blessings in me and is affectionately
successful way since then. of what fashion design of God. The competition known among the fashion
Many got to know me is. It was my very first is enormous for upcoming circles as ‘Sam’. I’m a
and recognized me and experience, and I must designers. Seeing my Fashion graduate of the
also trusted me. It was say it was a real energy designs on the ramp since RMIT University, Australia.
a massive opportunity boost for me! Being part 2009 and winning “The After the show, I did a
to be where I am. Today of the competition helped Best Up Coming Fashion foundation diploma at the
I’m designing for the me get an idea of the Designer of the Year” in Lanka Institute of Fashion
elite and doing fashion field and gave me a pretty 2009 marked a milestone in Technology in Sri Lanka.
photography. I recently good foundation. I joined my life. Since then, annually I’ve been affiliated with the
went to Paris on a fashion the Academy of design ; I have been participating high end bridalwear and
tour and have two brands Colombo a few months in many Bridal Shows eveningwear brands such
under my name, Raffealla later. I completed my BA in organized by leading as Bonita Haute Couture,
and designing jewelry as fashion design at this great magazines and have been Raffel Cuicca and Hannii
well. institution. I joined MAS the official Fashion designer while I was in Melbourne.
intimates upon graduation and Dress maker for the My designs have also been
and completed a 6 month models/ representatives worn by Charlie Cotton at
internship. After which from Sri Lanka in Global the ‘Rosemount Sydney
I received a placement beauty pageants, personal Fashion Week 2010’ as well
as a designer at Brandix fashion consultant for as being featured on a TV
Lingerie. I’ve been with the many celebrities although series. It is an accepted
company since. Through bridal designing is my fact that my design process
the company I have been most preferred expanse. follows no preset chain
given the opportunity to I take this opportunity to of thought other than
work with international thank Zainab Ammarah using fashion as a canvas
brands such as H&M, Etam for giving me the to express myself and the
and M&S. I’m currently privilege to participate elements are surrounded
a finalist for the young in her competition. It with. In 2014 I launched my
blood designer award at is my dream to leave a own clothing label and that
the Mercedes Benz fashion remarkable footprint in is O:LIVE couture.
awards 2015. the Fashion Industry of Sri
Lanka.

Page49 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7

50 Movies
Every Fashion Lover Should Watch

1 Tom Ford’s directorial debut “A Single Man” (2009) “The African Queen” (1951) 2
is, unsurprisingly, a stylish af-
fair. It details a day in the life of Starring Katherine Hep-
George Falconer (Colin Firth), a burn and Humphrey
gay university professor who is Bogart, this Old Hollywood
mourning the recent loss of his classic—set in Africa during
partner. Firth is solemn and dap- WWI—is chock-full of romance,
per in tweeds, Julianne Moore is danger, and beguiling Edward-
charmingly bouffant, and Nicho- ian frocks.
las Hoult is the perfect mod col-
lege boy.

3 This film follows the ex- “American Gigolo” (1980) “And God Created Woman” 4
ploits of a male escort
named Julian, played by Rich- Roger Vadim’s romantic
ard Gere, who uses his profes- drama is the vehicle that
sion to finance his passion for launched Brigitte Bardot’s
nice clothes, fast cars, and co- career, and her image as a
caine. After he is framed for a bombshell. In the movie, Bar-
murder, his impeccable sense dot’s character, Juliette, spends
of style unravels along with his her days engaged in the compli-
personal life. cated seduction of two broth-
ers. This movie is one-part tan-
talizing plot, two-parts French
Riviera glamor.

5 Based on Ian McEwan’s “Atonement” (2007) “Annie Hall” (1977) 6
novel of the same name,
“Atonement” is an intense Woody Allen’s famous
romantic drama set against rom-com follows the ro-
the backdrop of WWII. It stars mantic plight of Alvy Singer
James McAvoy, Keira Knightley, (played by Allen) who falls for
and Vanessa Redgraves, but the the eponymous ditsy, off-beat
spotlight really shines on the heroine, played by Diane Keaton.
sinuous, draped thirties frocks, The film is equally famous for its
and the tailored looks from the myopic, New York-y wit, and
forties and fifties. Keaton’s stylishly androgynous
ensembles.

7 There’s a lot going on in “Basic Instinct” (1992) “Belle Du Jour” (1967) 8
“Basic Instinct,” a thriller
about a woman who stalks and Starring French sexpot
violently harasses an ex. It’s Catherine Deneuve, “Belle
definitely not a flick for the faint Du Jour” follows the entan-
of heart, but it might be worth glements of a bored housewife
watching for Sharon Stone’s im- who takes up prostitution to
maculate white-on-white outfit alleviate her sexual ennui. Fash-
alone. ion-conscious viewers might find
that they are equally enthralled
by the exquisite Saint Laurent
costuming.

9 “Blow-Up” is the kind of “Blow-Up” (1966) “Bonnie and Clyde” (1967) 10Warren Beatty and a
film that encapsulates and
preserves a specific moment louche, elegant Faye Du-
in cultural history, namely Lon- naway star in this dramata-
don during the Swinging Sixties. zition of the infamous spree-
Directed by Michelangelo An- killing duo. Dunaway’s signature
tonioni, the movie stars many for the role was a mixture of his-
of the key fashion and film “It” torically-accurate thirties style,
girls of the time, included Van-
essa Redgrave, Jane Birkin, and with a beatnik edge.
Veruschka.

Page 50 - Sri Lanka’s Up & Coming Fashion Designer 2015 - Issue 7