All-natural canvas
Shehani De Silva designs on an all-natural canvas
At first glance, Shehani De Silva’s designs seem to be about a subtle sophistication that plays with clean lines and feminine silhouettes. But then there’s something that catches the eye – those quirky prints! That is the signature statement standing out in her designs: a uniqueness that’s underlined by an emphasis on individuality. She keeps her colour palette simple, and allows the pleats, belted waists, oversized sleeves and even a touch of the sporty to catch the spotlight.
Her Allure Chic collection mirrors Shehani’s signature style, which is inspired by deep tones of an earthy forest but embellished with floral prints and embroidery detail that reflect ultra-femininity. “The silhouettes are sophisticated and feminine, and my designs bring out the true personality of a strong woman,” she says.
Shehani has quite a following for her unfussy yet creative collections, which now retail at fashionmarket.lk and the FMLK store. She reveals that her next step will be designing saris.
Having always been interested in the creative arts – whether painting, crafts or photography – Shehani’s dream of becoming a designer surfaced much later. She explains: “It was only after I found out more about the Academy of Design (AOD) that I realised my innate love for design.”
She continues: “I love working with textiles,
which I believe is my strength. So whether its batik, handloom or prints, I include these in my collections and that has become my statement look.”
The three years she spent at AOD were most enjoyable, Shehani recalls: “When I think back, I can’t imagine I’ve learned so much. We were exposed to the real design world and international standards it demands. From the very first day, we were taught to present our creative ideas in design form.”
And the fact that AOD gave her the opportunity and exposure to the textile world especially in the context of handloom made her fall head over heels in love with textiles. “The experience at AOD made me realise my design strengths and really moulded me into the designer I am today,” Shehani says with appreciation.
But everything hasn’t always been smooth sailing. “With each new day comes a fresh challenge but that’s what makes everything so interesting because with passion, challenges are easier to overcome,” she asserts.
Surmising that fashion design can be a lucrative career, she remarks: “It’s about finding the right platform and a proper canvas to showcase our creativity. Look at all the successful design companies that have emerged in Sri Lanka – and the attendant opportunities for everyone.”
The sophisticated silhouettes and are feminine, and my designs bring out the true personality of a strong woman