Designer Deneth Piuma is still in a state of shock- she has just won the prestigious Pantene Gen Next Award at the HSBC Colombo Fashion Week for her collection, ‘Stranger in Paris’. “I didn’t know I was even being judged!” she laughs. “So when they announced my name, I can honestly say I certainly wasn’t expecting it!”
Deneth is no stranger to Colombo’s fashion circles. Even though this is her first time at the HSBC Colombo Fashion Week, she’s been making waves with her signature cheeththa creations since 2010. Possibly the only designer who uses cheeththa material as the basis for her designs, Deneth is inspired by the depth and bold colours of the material-‘colours of happiness’, as she fondly calls them.
The collection at CFW ‘Stranger in Paris’ was, she says, inspired by her visit to Paris, where she was struck by the orderly and elegant way of life. “It was like breathing freedom,” Deneth says.
“There’s a lot of freedom for women over there. And I was very much influenced by the straight, almost geometrical way of dress.” Her collection this year was designed with accommodation in mind. The clothes are also accessorized with her signature cheeththa print, while leaving room for the wearer to customize them as they choose. The collection will be made available in fashion boutiques Melache and Cantaloupe soon.
The Gen- Next Award introduced at last year’s CFW is aimed at recognizing emerging talent and providing them the right platform and exposure to come to the forefront.
Pantene’s sponsorship of the Gen- Next Award showcases the brand’s commitment to transforming local talent. Brand manager for Pantene, Vineet Kumar of P& G said, “We were very happy to be the Official Hair Care Partner in the CFW 2012 and sponsor such a significant award which creates opportunities for young local designers. No doubt this award will give the right confidence and exposure to Deneth and we wish her all the best in her design aspirations.” |
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