CFW returns to grand dame of hotels

By Sashini Rodrigo

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Jai by Aashkii

Colombo Fashion Week now in its 16th year is looking to the next 15 years with ambitious visions of taking Lankan fashion to loftier heights. Day Two of Colombo Fashion Week saw seven designers showcase their collections in the Grand Ballroom at the Galle Face Hotel, where coincidentally CFW’s journey began back in 2003.

Opening the show was Dimuthu Sahabandu, whose collection was inspired by Sri Lankan artist Mudaliyar A.C.G.S Amarasekara’s painting ‘Devil Dancer’s Daughter’. His dramatic gowns featured striking bodices embellished with devil mask designs in bold black lines and sequin embellishments. Tulle and silk were ruffled, draped and cut to form swooping silhouettes, accentuated by a limited palette of black and beige.

The second part of the collection portrayed sequin-embellished pieces with patterns reminiscent of dark woodlands while the showstopper third part evoked the classic glitz of Hollywood royalty.

Gihan Ediriweera combined freehand abstract batik art with tie and dye to create a visual story of ‘Monochromatic Japan’. The natural fibre fabrics had an airy, dream-like quality. The element of contrast was apparent in the colours, the bold yet tasteful prints, and accentuated waists on relaxed fits.

Dinushi Pamunuwa’s La Pard label brought together a fusion of 1920s silhouettes and traditional batik prints on silks in shades of blue to create luxurious loungewear. Her collection was soft and feminine– quite simply ‘All About Her’.

Brian Kerkoven’s ‘The Kerkoven Girl’ drew its inspiration from the everyday woman. His collection covered a variety of styles to suit every occasion, even for men. The recurring bold motif, as well as the use of silks and tulles in beige and black, was both artful and trendy.

Inspired by the traditional Kandyan dance ‘mayura wannama’, Amilani Perera’s collection celebrated the majestic peacock, through feather motifs, varying silhouettes, fluorescent pink and orange amongst black and pastel silks and delicate sequin flowers.

Jaish Jayasingha’s “Jai by Aashkii” drew inspiration from water for her collection ‘Reflection’. Her creative use of frills, ruffles and flowing fabrics mimicked the movement of water, while the bright shades of pink complemented by oranges and yellows accentuated its ever-changing nature.

Closing the evening was Turkish designer Cigdem Akin, in her first outing at CFW. The casual collection had a distinctly summery feel to it – colourful Bohemian style printed fabric in stylish casual wear ranging from Mediterranean beach chic to athleisure. (See also ST Magazine for more on CFW)