Fashion
Collection that embodies confidence
by Zanita Careem
Shanith Fernando, a renowned designer with over 20 years of experience crafting one-of-kind continue outfits have adorned many celebrities and feshionistas He said “clothing is a form of self experience and a way to showcase one’s individuality. So when women wear my design. I want them to experience a sense of beauty, confidence, and a deep connection with their personal strengths.”
Shanith was the youngest in the family W.S. . He was a student of Alethea International School and engaged in many social activities. He studied medicine at American National College and transferred to Yoke University Toronto, Canada. He completed his degree in Missouri. Shanith had a passion fashion from a very small age. He designed his first ever bridal outfit when he was just 13 years of age. It was a hand embroidery dress this propelled Shanith to kick start his designing career.
Shanith launched his clothing line ‘Bellesza’ back in 2006 and later joined a five star airline in the Middle East and travelled the world. His designer label ‘Bellesza’ encompasses bridals and is a one stop shop for all bridal needs. The focus of his speciality is that he designs to bring out the personality in you and creates a fashion statement. “
Q:When did your passion for fashion arise?
A: My passion for fashion arose many decades ago while I was in primary school and later drawn to the world of couture of the modern day woman,blending cascading silhouettes,dynamic cuts, and elegant handcrafted touches.
Clothes, designs and the colours always fascinated me and my mother’s sense of fashion was also another reason that drew my attention and love for fashion from a very young age.
Q:Who have you been most inspired by though your designs?
A:I will not be able to pin point and declare an exact name but I can assure you everything around me including some popular individuals and fashion houses do inspire me. I draw my inspirations from nature, day to day activities and life and also from the travels I embark on to explore the world.
Q:What does innovation of western and eastern fashion forms mean to you?
A: It is an absolute necessity in terms of elevating the standards and creativity and comfort of garments to being cost effective. What I love about this idea is that it can give the world amalgamation of creativity.
Innovation and creativity are two main requirements for the sustenance of our industry and the forward movement of fashion. The dynamic fashion scene and appreciation of luxury provide the perfect platform to showcase my unique vision.
Q: Many designs explore modern day glamour what that means to you?
A: The world is now a click away to most consumers. Therefore, modern day glamour plays a vital role. People have moved on to be simple and elegant in thier dressing styles. Modern day glamour is all about simplicity. My omnipresence and sheer richness of design leaving competition if any miles apart, the beauty being that I take it all purely on the merit of my creative cadence,originality of design and depth of knowledge.
Q: How would you define the fashion scene in Sri Lanka and how it evolved over the years?
A: Fashion scene today is escalating to better standards and new heights. Many have entered the industry both as retailers and as companies catering to the mass market.Gone are the days when the market was monopolized by a few designers, today we have so any in the market and this I see as a good sign for the future of the fashion design.
Q:How do you manage to empower though the world of fashion?
A: Empowering, philanthropy, giving back to society and magnanimity are principles I live by.
I have provided employment to many for years. I believe helping a family to provide employment is far better than a simple alms giving or one time assistance. Paving a way for living is a great deed and I believe in creating more opportunity for people.
Working with orphanages is also another way I empower young and the homeless. Conducting workshops and channeling help through all my friends to support the kids is something I find immense pleasure.
Q: How has your work evolved since you began your own label?
A: I see it as a great journey that catapulted with one wedding saree at the age of thirteen. Today I run two labels; Bellesza for the ladies and Chulo for the men. I have further expanded my career into cake making and savouries under my company label Heavenly Treats.
Mahima Bridal Studio in Borella town is my beauty salon where my clients get the opportunity to treat themselves to all thier beauty needs while Bellesza Design studio in kalubowila seeks to cater to all customers seeking my designer label.
I have showcased my fashion shows at many international pageants,especially in India and dressed countless models,film stars and factionists here and abroad I take this journey as a blessing from God above and my parents who are looking down upon me from heaven.
Can you talk about your bridal attire ? My gowns are designed to flatter a woman’s figure with carefully crafted silhouettes that accentuate curves and create a stunning profile. I keep in mind the body shapes and personal preferences.
Q: What role do you think social media and digital content play in the world of fashion today?
A: Social media and digital content have revolutionised the fashion industry. They provide a global platform to showcase our work, connect with a broader audience, and stay in touch with our customers. They have made fashion more accessible, and its a powerful tool for brand visibility and engagement with fashion enthusiasts.
Now he has his own labels and a trailblazer in Sri Lanka’s fashion scene.
Fashion
Season of sparkle: Priyanthi’s Christmas soiree
The festive spirit was in full swing as Priyanthi Fernando welcomed friends and family to her annual Christmas party at Gregory’s Road.
The evening combined warmth, laughter and seasonal elegance with every detail thoughtfully curated to celebrate the joy of the season. Guests were greeted by twinkling lights and festive decor that transformed the residence into a holiday haven, the ambience struck the perfect balance between glamour and comfort sparkling armaments, candle lit corners and lovely music by a two piece band, the décor not only set the tone for the evening but also created a picture perfect corners that delighted guests and embodied the true spirit of Christmas.
As the night drew on, the celebrations remained intimate yet vibrant,a reflection of Priyanthi Fernando’s flair for hospitality,this soiree stood out as a testament to the timeless charm of Christmas cheer shared in good company (ZC)
- Priyanthi
Fashion
Shaping the future of style
Ramani Fernando Sunsilk Hair and Beauty Academy
Ramani Fernando Sunsilk Hair and Beauty Academy marked their graduation of their latest cohort of aspiring hair professionals in a ceremony held at Kingsbury Hotel.
For over two decades, the Ramani Fernando Sunsilk Hair and Beauty Academy has stood as a beacon of excellence in beauty education in Sri Lanka. Founded by industry icon Ramani Fernando, the Academy has built a reputation for producing highly skilled professionals who go on to make their mark in salons, both locally and internationally. As the newly minted graduates step out into the world, they carry forward not just certificates, but also the promise of creative authority and personal empowerment.
The chief guest for the occasion was Rosy Senanayake, a long-standing supporter of the Academy’s mission. Addressing the graduates her message echoed her enduring belief that the beauty industry is not merely about aesthetic but about. confidence, self-worth and future leaders.
Over months of rigorous training, these young professionals honed their skills in cutting colouring, styling and contemporary artistry readying themselves to set trends rather than follow them.
Each graduate walked the stage with confidence, their dedication signalling a promising future for Sri Lanka’s beauty and fashion industry! With this new generation of stylists preparing to raise the standard of professional hairstyling.
Ramani Fernando, addressing the audience reflected on the academy’s mission to cultivate not only skills but vision and confidence in every student.
She urged the graduates to embrace continuous learning to take risks with creativity .The world of beauty is ever evolving, stay curious, stay bold and never underestimate the power of your talent, she added emphasising the importance of confidence, discipline and passion in carving a successful career in shaping the future of style.
These graduates are stepping into a world of endless possibilities. They are future of the country, who will carry a forward legacy of creativity. Behind every successful graduate at Sun silk Hair Academy stands a team dedicated to excellence. While Ramani Fernando serves as a visionary Principal and it is Lucky Lenagala, her trusted person who ensures that the academy runs seemingly.
From overseeing training sessions to guiding students, through hands on practice, Lucky plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of hairstylists.
Kumara de Silva, who has been the official compere Ramani’s, Hair graduation ceremony, from inception has brought energy, poise and professionalism. The Sunsilk Hair Academy is a celebration of talent and mentor ship for the graduates stepping confidentially into the next chapter of their careers, ready to make their mark on Sri Lanka beauty landscape
Pix by Thushara Attapathu
By Zanita Careem ✍️
Fashion
Capturing the spirit of Christmas
During this season, Romesh Atapattu’s Capello Salon buzzes with a unique energy – a blend of festive excitement and elegance. Clients arrive with visions of holiday parties, office soirees, seeking looks that capture both glamour and individuality. The salon itself mirrors this celebrity mood. Warm lights, tasteful festive décor create an atmosphere where beauty and confidence flourish.
Romesh Atapattu himself curates the festive décor, infusing the space with his signature sense of style. His personal eye ensures that the décor complements the salon’s modern interiors.
As Colombo slips effortlessly into its most glamorous time of year, the Christmas season brings with it more than twinkling lights and celebrity soirees – it signals a transformation season at salons across the city. Capello salons are no exception.
At the heart of this festive beauty movement is Romesh Atapattu of Capello salons, a name synonymous with refined hair artistry, modern elegance and personalised style.
Christmas is about confidence and celebration. Romesh believes ‘People want to look their best without losing who they are”. Our role is to enhance, not overpower. This philosophy is evident in the salon’s seasonal approach.
Beyond trends, what sets Atapattu apart is the attention to individuality. Each consultation is treated as a creative collaboration – face shape, lifestyle, hair texture and personal style all play a role in creating the best for Romesh.
Stepping into Romesh’s salon during the Christmas season is an experience in itself. The space hums with festive energy while maintaining an atmosphere of calm sophistication.
The décor embraces the Christmas spirit with understated elegance. Tastefully adorned décor, beautiful Xmas tree, soft gold and ivory tones, and gentle hints of red are woven seamlessly into the salon’s contemporary design.
His staff, known for their warmth and professionalism also plays a key role in shaping the salon’s atmosphere—friendly, stylish and always welcoming. The Capello staff combine skill and creativity to deliver results that have a lasting impression.
Beyond trends, what sets Romesh Atapattu apart is the attention to individuality. Each consultation is treated as a creative collaboration – face shape, lifestyle, hair texture and personal style all play a role.
He is a professional who blends technical mastery with a deeply personal approach to style. His dedicated team of skilled professionals, operate with quiet confidence ensuring styles that create an atmosphere of trust, turning every appointment into a personalised and memorable experience.
(ZC) ✍️
Pic by Rohan Herath
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