Fashion Archives

April 22, 2024

Monday 22nd April 2024, Colombo: After a meticulous selection process involving top industry professionals, Chokolaate has selected the Top Ten finalists who will compete for the coveted “Fashion Designer of the Year” title at MDFD 2024. The grand finale is due to take place on the 18th of May and will feature real Mother-Daughter duos modelling creations by the finalists in the categories of Casual Wear, Sports Wear and Evening Wear.

Sorting through hundreds of entries, the judges looked for creativity, precision and also a novel look at fashion in the contestants. The finalists have already gone through a series of training programs from several industry professionals to enhance their knowledge on design, fashion marketing and many other topics.

“This year we have an interesting mix of contestants from design schools and universities. It’s also interesting to note that some of our contestants are older and more mature which will also be reflected in their designs that you see on ramp. Chokolaate has constantly strived to be a platform for young talent, and for the past 13 years it has been a stepping stone for many who have gone on to become renowned fashion designers, stylists and industry leaders”, said Michelle Gunesekara, Founder and Editor of the Chokolaate Magazine.

A majority of this year’s contestants represent the Sri Lanka Institute of Textile and Apparel with 50% of the finalists being students there. Contestants from AACS, AIBT, the Open University of Sri Lanka and the Moratuwa University make up the balance five spots.

Inspired by natural elements like the night sky, pearls and oysters, spider webs after the rain, serpents, red mushrooms, flowers, rainbows and starfish, and more personal items like a mother’s saree collection, the grand finale is sure to be a treat for the senses.

The ten female finalists will also create a single design in a new segment titled “Cinderella” which will be modelled by teenage models, some of who will walk the ramp for the very first time. This segment will be sponsored by Cinderella by Secrets to promote their latest perfume brand.

The collaboration of esteemed partners for MDFD 2024 includes ICL Brands (Pvt) Ltd, HEMAS with their brand Vivya, Fondre, Singer, Double XL, Fonterra.

Among the partners for this year’s event are Dinesh Chandrasena as the Creative Director, Rozanne Diasz as the Official Choreographer, Naturals Salon as the Hair & Make-Up partner, Ushan Gunasekera as photography partner, Kiss FM as Radio partner and Nehemiah Consultants as the PR partner. Together, they bring a wealth of expertise and support to make Chokolaate MDFD 2024 a remarkable success.

For more information on sponsorship opportunities, and details of the grand finale, please contact Safraz on 076 669 5104.

April 4, 2024

04^th April, 2024, Colombo: Hameedia, Sri Lanka’s leading menswear brand synonymous with style and quality, unveiled its latest wedding collection for grooms, “Black Story,” at the Colombo Fashion Week 2024 held recently. The collection’s launch marks a significant step towards redefining groom’s fashion landscape, introducing 18 unique outfits crafted to make grooms look extraordinary on their big day.

The “Black Story” collection draws inspiration from the timeless and formal allure of the color black, recognized as the color of choice for groom’s attire at weddings. In an industry where brides traditionally take the spotlight, Hameedia, addresses the longstanding issue of neglecting the groom’s fashion needs. Through this collection, Hameedia aims to bridge the personality gap between brides and grooms, guiding grooms on how to look their best and shine on their special day.

Managing Director of Hameedia, Fouzul Hameed stated, “Hameedia’s effort for 2024 is to create a perfect groom with the perfect look, perfect fit, and perfect style. The collection offers a range of packages tailored for weddings, ensuring affordability without compromising on quality or style. With ceremonial, luxury, and Le Bond options, Hameedia caters to a diverse range of preferences, providing real value for money.”

Crafted by Hameedia’s experienced design team, the “Black Story” collection is a testament to unparalleled quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. Each piece is meticulously tailored using some of the finest fabrics, complemented by premium accessories to enhance the mystique look envisioned for grooms. The unveiling of the “Black Story” collection signals Hameedia’s continued dedication to innovation and excellence in men’s fashion, empowering grooms to embrace timeless elegance and style on their special day. Hameedia’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in this “Black Story” collection, ranging from suits for little boys as young as one year old to outfits for senior citizens in their twilight years

From ready-made to made-to-measure, bespoke, and total accessories, Hameedia offers a diverse selection to elevate the modern man’s fashion game. The product range spans formal, ceremonial, smart casual, casual, linen, suits, shirts, blazers, trousers, and an exclusive range of bespoke leather products, including shoes, belts, and accessories, perfectly complementing the clothing collection.

Established in 1949, Hameedia stands as Sri Lanka’s leading menswear brand, offering a comprehensive range of menswear solutions and accessories. With a steadfast commitment to style, quality, and customer satisfaction, Hameedia has earned its reputation as a trendsetter in the Sri Lankan retail fashion industry. The brand’s extensive collection features renowned menswear brands such as Envoy London, Le Bond, Signature, Roseavelt, Van Heusen, Louis Philippe, Park Avenue, Raymond, and Adidas.

April 1, 2024

In a glamorous event that took place in Colombo recently, Japlan Consumer Private Limited hosted Japlan Shades and Styles Anniversary Bash and Product Launch.

The occasion looked back at Wella Professionals’ four years of presence in Sri Lanka with Japlan Holdings Ltd., a diversified joint venture between Japan’s TBK and its Sri Lankan collaborators, which started importing, marketing, and distributing the World’s No.1 hair-care brand, within the country.

The event featured the unveiling of a treasure trove of world-class, innovative Wella products, including Color Fresh and Color Touch, adding new dimensions to its illustrious legacy which has continued since 1880 when it started in Germany.

Japlan also made use of the glittering event to introduce IKONIC professionals to the Sri Lankan market as the one and only exclusive distributor in Sri Lanka.

IKONIC, a brand that has established its presence at the forefront of salon equipment manufacturing in the UAE and India, brings creativity and elegance to the vast field of style and beauty, altogether.

Japlan Holdings, the sole distributor and marketer of Wella and IKONIC in Sri Lanka, also entertained the elite gathering with an exclusive hair show exhibition – another first in Sri Lanka, showcasing the company’s role as a trailblazer in organizing such esteemed extravaganzas biennially.

This year’s event also celebrated the diverse and vibrant world of hair colours, offering a visually stunning experience that promises to explore new horizons of styles. With the gathering of beauty industry legends, the glamorous spectacle was a blend fusion of talent, innovation, and expertise.

This stunning event received beauty industry luminaries, including top salon and cosmetic traders from across the nation.

Japlan Shades and Styles was more than just a celebration; it was a testament to Japlan’s commitment to excellence and a tribute to the timeless appeal of beauty and style.

April 1, 2024

Kirsche Capital, a dynamic addition to Colombo’s fashion scene, proudly announces the launch of its newest collection, offering a fusion of affordability, trendiness, and modesty in contemporary fashion. Nestled on 395 R.A. De Mel Mawatha in Colombo 3, Kirsche Capital is the brainchild of CEO and Co-Founder Dr. Sarah Fazy, a fashion enthusiast dedicated to bridging fashion with trendsetting designs.

Recognising the surge in demand for modest fashion, Kirsche Capital proudly introduces its inaugural modest wear line. In response to customer feedback and market trends, the brand’s latest collection caters to individuals seeking stylish yet modest attire. To mark this milestone, Kirsche Capital hosted a captivating fashion show featuring its modest wear range, complemented by a live hijab demonstration tutorial led by hijab stylist Aysha Iqbal. Demonstrating unique hijab styling and draping techniques, the event underscored Kirsche Capital’s commitment to empowering individuals to express their style.

Co-founder and Director of Kirsche Capital Viduravi Hansaja Kumbukage brings his cinematic background to the forefront. He is a renowned actor and well-known for his distinct style and passion for fashion. He expressed enthusiasm for the launch stating, “We are thrilled to introduce our modest wear collection, catering to the evolving needs of our customers. Combining affordability with style, we aim to empower individuals to feel beautiful while adhering to their modest dressing preferences.”

Spanning an impressive 4,000 square feet, the Kirsche Capital store epitomizes style, showcasing meticulously curated men’s and women’s ready-to-wear clothing along with adorable children’s wear. With a commitment to delivering high-quality, contemporary designs, the brand offers a diverse range of timeless tops, dresses, pants, skirts, and shirts tailored to suit any occasion.

What distinguishes Kirsche Capital is its emphasis on comfortable clothing styles that exude liberation. From classic to contemporary, the brand offers a wide array of styles designed to accommodate diverse preferences and body types. Whether for casual outings or formal events, Kirsche Capital’s clothing is meticulously crafted to facilitate effortless mixing and matching, ensuring versatility for every occasion.

In addition to its women’s collection, Kirsche Capital presents a range of comfortable and high-quality T-shirts and shirts for men, catering to contemporary fashion sensibilities. They also have an extensive kid’s collection, making it an ideal one-stop-shop location for the clothing needs of the entire family. Emphasising a modern, feminine style and an inclusive approach, the brand remains committed to fostering positive change and enhancing diversity in its offerings.

For more information about Kirsche Capital and its journey, visit the store directly or contact them at +94702370123.

March 25, 2024

Colombo, 25^th March 2024: TikTok made its debut entrance into Sri Lanka’s dynamic fashion landscape by collaborating with Colombo Fashion Week (CFW) as its official Social Media Partner. This partnership marked a milestone for both TikTok and CFW, as they joined forces to celebrate creativity, diversity, and innovation in the local fashion industry through #FashionTok.

This March, across the three bustling locations in Colombo, CFW welcomed fashion enthusiasts to its 21st edition, showcasing a blend of local and international designers’ exceptional work. With TikTok’s support, the event reached new heights, offering attendees and online audiences an immersive experience like never before.

As part of the collaboration, TikTok introduced a QR Code strategically placed at the event venues, guiding users to the dedicated #FashionTok page, which provided a plethora of exclusive CFW content ranging from behind-the-scenes glimpses to runway highlights from the event. Through interactive one-minute videos and innovative features like Photomode, TikTok captured the essence of CFW and shared its unique and creative flair with a global audience.

In addition to the stellar lineup of designers at Colombo Fashion Week, including renowned names such as Limak by Kamil, Amilani Perera, Fouzul Hameed, Afsana Ferdousi and others, the event also featured emerging talents who are actively engaged in FashionTok and the TikTok platform. Designers like Maleesha Perera of Moir.ae, Chihiro Fernando of Chihiro.lk, Ara by Arsath Furkhan, Aysha Faizer of Lankan Chic, and Gai by Gayanth Karunarathne, utilized TikTok to showcase their creativity and attract a new and untapped audience to their brands.

#FashionTok emerged as a captivating subculture on TikTok, empowering Sri Lankans to redefine fashion’s boundaries and express their creativity. In a country that’s rich with cultural heritage, #FashionTok serves as a digital canvas for individuals to weave their unique narratives of style and beauty. Moreover, it serves as a powerful tool for promoting Sri Lankan fashion and talent on the global stage.

Beyond aesthetics, FashionTok fosters inclusivity and community, bridging the gap between aspiration and reality. It celebrates diversity, encourages collaboration, and inspires individuals from all backgrounds to embrace the universal language of fashion. Through its collaboration with CFW, TikTok reaffirms its commitment to supporting emerging talent and shaping the future of fashion in Sri Lanka and beyond.

March 18, 2024

Colombo Fashion Week 2024, presented by Mastercard, returns March 6th-9th, showcasing the next generation of Sri Lankan fashion talent. From a shortlist of 22 designers, 11 rising Sri Lankan designers have made it to the final round – Gayanth Karunaratne, Devapriya Halwala, Prathibha Liyanarachchi, Mevini Amarasinghe, Navodya Janith, Maleesha Perera, Akash Paranavitharana, Chihiro Fernando, Aysha Faizer, and Arsath Furkhan will unveil their collections alongside international emerging designer Giada Zanotti.

Since 2003, Colombo Fashion Week has played a pivotal role in reviving and propelling Sri Lanka’s fashion industry. From humble beginnings featuring a handful of designers, it has blossomed into a thriving ecosystem embracing sustainability and empowering young talent. More than 80% of today’s leading Sri Lankan designers are the product of Colombo Fashion Week’s development system, a testament to the event’s lasting impact.

“This is a very exciting part of CFW, looking at new talent and then taking them through the journey of development. This season is quite encouraging from a new talent perspective as a strong number of emerging designers have applied. We look forward to an exciting season” says Fazeena Rajabdeen CEO/ Director of Colombo Fashion Week.

In addition to the Emerging Designers, this edition will showcase international designers from Italy, England, Bangladesh, and India including – Samant Chauhan, Payal Pratap, Manoviraj Khosla, Afsana Ferdousi, Charlotte Allen, Abraham and Thakore who will showcase along prominent Sri Lankan designers such as Lovi Ceylon, Buddhi Batiks, Amilani Perera, Aslam Hussein, Limak by Kamil, La Pard, Ayesh Wickramaratne, Charini Suriyage, and Fouzul Hameed.

Celebrating Fashion in Colombo

This year with the focus on promoting Colombo as an attractive destination, Colombo Fashion Week goes beyond the runway, transforming Colombo into a vibrant tapestry of style, showcasing the best of Sri Lankan and international design and fusing it with the unmatched charm of Colombo. The event features intimate shows, food, and fashion events scattered across three host hotels and iconic landmarks, showcasing both established and emerging design talents. This unique format allows guests to experience the city’s vibrant spirit while immersing themselves in stunning fashion.

Strong Partnerships Fueling Growth

Colombo Fashion Week’s success stems from its collaborations with key partners. Mastercard, the esteemed title partner, shares Colombo Fashion Week’s vision for sustainable practices and nurturing SMEs, aligning with their commitment to digitize sustainably by 2025.

The event is further bolstered by renowned host hotels: Cinnamon Grand Colombo, offering unparalleled elegance, grandeur and authentic Sri Lankan hospitality; Taj Samudra, Colombo, offering unparalleled service and breathtaking ocean views; and Galle Face Hotel, the only heritage hotel in Colombo, where colonial charm blends seamlessly with modern amenities. These collaborations not only provide stunning venues but also contribute to reviving the city’s economy by attracting visitors and generating tourism revenue.

Joining Colombo Fashion Week’s esteemed network are: Chupa Chups by Perfetti as the lifestyle confectionary brand, NDB Wealth Management as the official wealth management partner, Juniper Group offering a unique real estate and financial investment portfolio, Vision Care as the eyewear partner, and Tressemme as the haircare partner. British Council also joins us this year. Additionally, Ramani Fernando Salons remains the official hair and make-up partner, while Hameedia continues their longstanding affiliation with CFW. Finally, Wijeya Newspapers, Hardtalk, and Emerging Media contribute to extensive media coverage, amplifying the event’s reach.

February 27, 2024

Crocodile, the esteemed fashion brand celebrated for its timeless designs and unwavering commitment to quality, proudly introduces its latest venture: Crocodile Kids for Boys. The launch event, held recently at One Galle Face Mall, was an exciting and full of engaging activities for the young attendees. It marked a significant milestone for Crocodile as it ventured into the realm of children’s fashion, bringing forth a collection that combines playful styles, vibrant colours, and utmost comfort.

For over 70 years, Crocodile has been a prominent name in global fashion. Established in Sri Lanka in 2008, the company has grown into a premium brand, known for its quality and excellence. With wide selection of fashion available for men, women and now boys, Crocodile is renowned in the world of fashion and has set extraordinarily high standards in Sri Lanka over the years.

Mr Ahmed Ikram, Chief Business Officer of Crocodile Sri Lanka, said. ” We are thrilled to introduce Crocodile Kids for Boys, a collection that embodies the essence of childhood joy and style. Crafted with the same precision and care that defines Crocodile, this collection promises to revolutionize the way young boys dress, offering them an array of fashionable options that reflect their personality and energy.”

The launch event saw a host of kids and parents exploring the diverse range of clothing meticulously curated for boys. From trendy t-shirts to smart casuals, each garment was created with the exemplary Crocodile charm, blending contemporary flair with timeless elegance.

In addition to One Galle Face Mall, the Crocodile Kids for Boys Collection is also available at the Flagship outlet at Duplication Road, Pelawatte, Marino Mall, and Dharmapala Mawatha Outlets.

Crocodile continues to captivate fashion enthusiasts worldwide with its unparalleled craftsmanship and commitment Crocodile hopes to keep consistently growing with innovative designs and uncompromising quality.

February 26, 2024

Hosted across three hotels to make Colombo come alive

Colombo Fashion Week (CFW) returns from March 6th to 9th 2024, for its 21st edition, marking a significant milestone and promising a future brimming with innovation for the fashion industry of Sri Lanka. This year the platform focuses on multiple locations around Colombo to make the city come alive, as it’s also an apt time for travelers to experience the creativity and cultural richness of Colombo.

Since 2003, CFW has played a pivotal role in reviving, guiding, and building pride in Sri Lanka’s fashion industry. From humble beginnings featuring a handful of designers, it has blossomed into a thriving ecosystem embracing sustainability and empowering young talent. More than 80% of today’s leading Sri Lankan designers are the product of CFW’s development system, a testament to its impact.

Under the visionary leadership of Managing Director Ajai Vir Singh, CFW has championed sustainability, introducing initiatives such as Ethical Fashion Day, the Responsible Fashion Summit, and the innovative tool, Responsible Meter. These efforts have positioned CFW as a leader in ethical fashion globally, attracting renowned designers from Europe, Australia, and South Asia, alongside esteemed Sri Lankan designers, fostering knowledge exchange, and showcasing the burgeoning talent of Sri Lankan designers alongside established industry names.

This year, with the focus to promote Colombo as an attractive destination, CFW transcends runways, transforming the city into a vibrant tapestry of style, showcasing the best of Sri Lankan and international design and fusing it with the unmatched charm of Colombo. Project Colombo goes beyond the catwalk, embracing the city as its muse. Expect intimate events scattered across iconic Colombo landmarks, each showcasing breathtaking collections by established and emerging Sri Lankan designers. Stay tuned for exclusive brand experiences, and captivating talks that delve into the industry’s trends and the impact of CFW on Sri Lanka’s fashion landscape.

This edition will showcase international designers from Italy, England, Pakistan, and India including – Samant Chauhan, Payal Pratap, Alessandra Lorusso, Manoviraj Khosla, Afsana Ferdousi, Charlotte Allen, who will showcase along prominent Sri Lankan designers such as Asanka De Mel, Darshi Keerthisena, Sonali Dharmawardena, Amilani Perera, Aslam Hussein, Kamil Hewawitharana, Dinushi Pamunuwa, Ayesh Wickramaratne, Charini Suriyage, and over ten emerging designers. The show dates begin from March 6^th to the 9^th.

“This is Colombo Fashion Week’s 21^st year and we plan to use the Platform to showcase Colombo not only as a vibrant destination for travellers but also as a centre that facilitates the creative industries. We want our platforms to showcase Sri Lanka in the region. Colombo Fashion Week will take place across multiple locations on Galle Road, it’s a new format” says Ajai Vir Singh, Managing Director, CFW Holdings.

Colombo Fashion Week continues its meticulously curated fashion experience in partnership with the globally reputed brand Mastercard, the esteemed title partner. Their vision to digitize sustainably by the year 2025 and nurture and support SMEs aligns with the vision of CFW.

Host hotels include Cinnamon Grand, Colombo where heritage meets contemporary chic; Taj Samudra, Colombo, with unparalleled service and breathtaking ocean views, and Galle Face Hotel, Colombo, where colonial charm and modern amenities collide.

Chupa Chups by Perfetti joins us as our lifestyle confectionary brand.

NDB Wealth Management joins us this year as our investment and wealth management partner.

Another partner continuing to support CFW is Juniper Group which offers a unique real estate and financial investment portfolio, along with our eyewear partner Vision Care, and Tresamme, the haircare partner.

The iconic Ramani Fernando has been part of this journey since its inception as the official hair and make-up partner. Hameedia continues to extend its longstanding affiliation with CFW.

Also joining us on board this year are Wijeya Newspapers, Hardtalk, and Emerging Media to elevate CFW 2024 to unparalleled heights.

December 15, 2023

Aadaraya Ceylon, a rising intimate apparel brand launched its latest seasonal collection at its flagship store located at 54C, Ward Place, Colombo 07. Aadaraya Ceylon takes pride in being a homegrown brand, with every item crafted to embody the essence of comfort and timeless style.

Embracing the spirit of the holidays, they have launched their latest Christmas collection featuring charming and whimsical graphic t-shirts. The Matching Family Christmas PJ Collection offers a delightful ensemble for creating enduring memories with your loved ones. Embrace the joy of twinning with cosy and stylish sleepwear that beautifully captures the magic of the season for the whole family.

Founder Neomi Koswatte, with over two decades of experience in the apparel industry, expressed her excitement about the holiday collection stating, “Our festive collection, from holiday pyjamas to sophisticated sets, epitomises comfort and style. It’s perfect for family photo shoots, seasonal gatherings, and at-home festivities.”

Aadaraya Ceylon has been the preferred choice for fashion-conscious consumers seeking high-quality sleepwear and intimates. The brand’s commitment to premium materials and contemporary designs has fostered a dedicated customer base over the years. They continue to set the standard for sleepwear and lingerie, focusing on quality fabrics and exquisite design.

The latest collection showcases a range from adorable and comfortable pyjamas to luxurious sleepwear. Including classic PJs, chemises, gowns, robes, and more, as well as exquisite bras and briefs, each item is meticulously crafted with a keen focus on quality and fit, providing the perfect blend of support and allure. The collection also highlights lace shorts paired with coordinating bras, available in a variety of captivating colours. Neomi Koswatte emphasises, “Our new intimates collection aims to deliver feminine, stylish styles that seamlessly align with one’s lifestyle while prioritising comfort at an accessible price point.”

Visit Aadaraya Ceylon’s flagship store in Colombo 07 or on their website www.aadaraya.com and explore the latest seasonal collection. Elevate your bedtime routine with their curated lingerie and sleepwear, celebrating the richness of Sri Lankan design, comfort, and self-expression.

December 7, 2023

Thursday, 7 December 2024, Colombo: House of Janaan proudly announced the opening of their inaugural store in Colombo this week, marking a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s fashion landscape. The grand unveiling garnered esteemed dignitaries, fashion luminaries, and close friends, joining in celebration of culture and individuality in the haven of the luxurious House of Janaan.

The brand founded by Sarah Illyas, renowned as a trailblazer in the fashion industry, with over a decade of multifaceted experience encompassing fashion, buying, merchandising, cross country market launches, and strategic leadership. Illyas’s role as a senior leader in the e-commerce ecosystem across South East Asia solidifies the brand as a testament to her profound expertise and strategic acumen.

Speaking of the launch Sarah Illyas, Founder, House of Janaan stated: “Venturing into entrepreneurship with the launch of my brand was not an easy one but one that took years of planning and was backed by having over a decade of experience in the fashion industry. The opening of House of Janaan is a realization of this dream, a dream to share the beauty and elegance of Pakistani culture and style. This debut collection is a labor of dedication and I’m excited to invite all our customers to experience the enchantment of the House of Janaan. In the upcoming months customers can also expect a multitude of offerings including our expansion into ecommerce.”

The House of Janaan, deeply connected to its name and aesthetics, embodies its name “Janaan” meaning the very “Soul” of Pakistani heritage and artistry. Carefully reinterpreted for the contemporary, cosmopolitan woman, the brand aims to be a sanctuary of fashion for everyone. The collection at the House of Janaan embodies rich tapestry of Pakistani culture with each piece being a masterpiece having been intricately hand-crafted by skilled artisans. The store offers a meticulously designed collection of exquisite shalwar’s, exquisite statement pieces, intricate jackets, and handcrafted beaded clutches.

House of Janaan invites customers to embark on a journey of discovery within the walls of its flagship store—a space where tradition and modernity coalesce in every thread. The decadent collection at the House of Janaan will be available to purchase at No 1, 33rd Lane, Off Bagatalle Road, Colombo 3 from 10AM to 7PM from Monday to Sunday.

Older Posts

Chokolaate Selects Top Ten Finalists for MDFD 2024

Hameedia Unveils “Black Story” Wedding Collection for Grooms

Japlan Shades and Styles takes world of beauty to new heights

Kirsche Capital Unveils Its Latest Modest Collection

TikTok partners with Colombo Fashion Week as Official Social Media Partner

Eleven young designers showcase at the Emerging Designer showcase of Colombo Fashion Week

Crocodile Unveils All-New Dynamic Kids Collection for Boys at One Galle Face Mall

Colombo Fashion Week 2024 presented by MasterCard continues to focus on Sustainability, Retail and Design Development

Discover Elegance and Comfort at Aadaraya Ceylon Unveiling its Captivating Seasonal Collection

House of Janaan Celebrates Grand Opening, Unveiling Fusion of Tradition and Modernity