Fashion
Celebrations wrapped up with extravagance

by Zanita Careem
If you haven’t been following Priyanthi Fernando’s style trajectory over the years, it’s important to note that Priyanthi has been making waves with her sartorial picks for over a decade now.
A look back at the icon’s style files reveal a series of noteworthy ensembles, including the long emerald green gown from the USA what she wore for her birthday have made fashion statement. From silky sarees to eloborate gowns and suits, Priyanthi closet is versatality.
Always in the spotlight, Priyanthi carries herself with utmost elegance, offering even more to the ensembles she wears. “For me, I see style as a resource to access my confidence, that represent who I am, and help me to succeed.”
She added that she doesn’t regard her wardrobe as an aspirational commodity. Instead she thinks of the clothes she wears as functional accessories. For her, style is about so much more than the clothes you wear. It’s about finding what makes you feel confident.
Priyanthi’s sartorial prowess remains unquestionable at all times. Her wardrobe collection boasts variety and versatility. Priyanthi doesn’t stray away from bold colours, bold patterns or out of the box silhouettes – whether she is wearing saree or rocking risque plunging recklines, she does it with panache.
In the world of fashions, where trends are here today, gone tomorrow, there are a few individuals who manage to stand out and leave an indelible mark. Pri is undeniably a personality who epitomises modern day fashion. Her charitable ventures resonates her tenacious personality.
Priyanthi Fernando or Preethi as she is popularly called amongst her friends celebrated her birthday at Kingsburry Hote recently, The party was the ultimate celebrations, exclusivity and exuberance with Colombo’s who’s who attending the event. Glitz glamour,and elegance were all part of the celebrations. For the occasion, Priyanthi wore a long emerald green gown dripping with crystals and beads which spelled magic . She teaned up the stunning wonder with emeralds and diamonds as her jewellery. Dangling earrings, a diamond bangle and a emerald embellished statement ring wrapped up her accessory game. The celebrations were filled with joy, the decor was breathtaking with thousands of candles lighting up he banquet hall. The hall was transformed into an extravagant visual spectacle adorned with fresh flowers. Guests was greeted with a stunning entrance adorned with cascading floral arrangements providing a picturesque backdrop for guests to capture their memories. One of the most striking feature was the tall birthday cake complemening the décor. Attention to detail and grandeur was evident in every aspect of the celebrations. The dress code for the invitees formed an interesting part of the event, curating the atmosphere. The theme for the evening for guests were gowns in plain colours for women and full suite in black for men. She spared no expense making the catering match up to the lavish celebrations A spellbinding musical extratravaganza with performances by Misty and his musicians created lasting memories for all.Her children flew to Sri Lanka for this e special occasion.
Fashion
Festive glamour at Nethara

Nethara Collection ,is a world of export quality garments in Diulpitiya, Boralesgamuwa, is infused with an ultra festive spirit this season catering to the women of today. Unbelievable offers and discounts from Nethara for Sinhala anTamil new year. On selection of women’s clothing, ranges from casual options to formal occasion wear,all at friendly prices,to enhance your wardrobe this festive season.
Nethara collection, started small in 2017, but soon it outgrew, today with an ever increasing customer base, branded and non branded clothing this shopping centre has become very popular. Export quality , stylish dresses, crop tops, fancy blouses, trousers and many more to flaunt yourself and enhance your wardrobe.Their extensive collection, maintain low pricing allowing everybody to have a chance to shop till they drop dead. From casual wear to formal wear,they have women to men’s items like tee shirts, shirts for every occasion.
Nethara clothing has long remained a name that has struck a chord with Sri Lankan shoppers. “We believe our success has been based up on the premise that absolute sincerity towards customers and no matter what the economic situation that prevails, we try our level best to keep our prices low and within everybody’s budget, said managing director, Nethara Collection Sampath Kumara.
This April season Nethara collection brings an all new collection of export quality seasonal wear. Celebrate the season with exclusive offers made just for you! Dresses, blouses, casual, formal wear denim, men’s shirts and many more… world of limitless style and joy!
This festive season Nethara unwraps a celebration of warmth, style and sophistication. Immense yourself in a vibrant festive atmosphere as you explore thier collection under one roof 345 Boralasgamuwa With a focus on quality, affordability and customer satisfaction, Nethara export quality boutique invites you to celebrate the Sinhala and Tamil New Year in style.
(Zanita)
Fashion
Global advocate for humanity

Charming Anudi Gunasekara (25y) is the reigning Miss World Sri Lanka 2024/25. Hailing from Anuradhapura where she studied at Central College, Anuradhapura, she is a graduate from the University of Kelaniya with a Second Upper BA (Hons) degree in International Studies.
She also holds a Diploma in International Relations from the Bandaranaike Centre for International Studies (BCIS)
An Honorary Member of Rotary International 3220, Anudi is the Founder of Saheli, a non-profit organization to combat period poverty in Sri Lanka.
She represents Sri Lanka at the Miss World grand finale in India in May this year.
Begun in 1951, the Miss World pageant is the world’s oldest beauty pageant. In 1972, Miss World became the first major international pageant to feature a dedicated charity program, “Beauty with a Purpose,” which has since raised millions of dollars for causes such as education, disaster relief, and child healthcare.
Excerpt of interview with this ethereal beauty.
We can see a glow in your face and it looks like you are excited to be part of the Miss World Contest?
Absolutely! Competing in Miss World has always been a dream of mine. Wearing the Sri Lankan sash with pride and representing my country on such a prestigious stage is truly a dream come true. I’m incredibly excited for the main competition!
What made you choose your journey in the world of beauty pageants?
I’ve been modelling since I was 19, and Miss World was always a milestone I aspired to achieve. It wasn’t an overnight decision but rather something I’ve been preparing for over the years. What truly drew me to Miss World is its purpose beyond physical beauty, it made me realize that this is my calling.
Did your parents appreciate your choice of entering into pageantry. If no how did you convinced them?
They have always been incredibly understanding and supportive. As the eldest among my siblings, I grew up as an independent child, and that has built a strong sense of trust. They believe in me and know that I can handle whatever comes my way.
You are not only representing Sri Lanka, but the entire world which also adds responsibilities on your shoulders. One such responsibility will be your association with humanity. Tell us how you will deal?
As Miss Sri Lanka and a participant in Miss World, I recognize that my role extends beyond representing my country, it is also about embracing the responsibility of being a global advocate for humanity.
One of the most effective ways to uphold this responsibility is by using my platform to address pressing social issues, particularly those affecting marginalized women. Through my Beauty with a Purpose project, I have already committed to tackling period poverty in Sri Lanka by raising awareness, improving access to sanitary products, and advocating for policy changes. However, the issue of menstrual equity is not confined to one country; it is a global concern that affects millions of women.
Whether it is period poverty, gender inequality, or access to education, my approach will always be rooted in compassion, action, and sustainable solutions.
Who would be your role model from Miss World pageantry?
Manushi Chhillar was the Miss World who truly inspired me to pursue this journey. Her story and purpose resonated with me, reinforcing my desire to be part of Miss World.
Could you walk as through your prep routine diet, fitness, personality training etc. What will you do if you win the title?
The Miss World Sri Lanka team and I work tirelessly to ensure that I represent myself in the best way possible. Fitness has been a key focus as I prepare for the sports and fitness segment, and while I’m mindful of my diet, I make sure not to restrict my body to the point of discomfort. Balance is important. Additionally, I undergo daily training to refine my personality and overall presentation, ensuring I bring my best self to the competition.
What is beauty according to you and how do you drive purpose in beauty?
To me, beauty is not just about appearance, it is a reflection of one’s character, values, and the impact they create in the world. True beauty lies in kindness, resilience, and the ability to uplift others. I drive purpose in beauty by ensuring that my voice, actions, and platform contribute to meaningful change. As Miss Sri Lanka, I have used my role to advocate for menstrual equity through my Beauty with a Purpose project, addressing period poverty and empowering women with knowledge and resources. Beauty becomes purposeful when it is used as a force for good, when it inspires confidence, creates opportunities, and fosters a sense of belonging.
There are many who debate whether beauty pageants are still relevant or not, what is your stand on this?
Beauty pageants, particularly Miss World, remains highly relevant because they have evolved beyond physical appearance to become platforms for advocacy, empowerment, and social change. When done right, pageants are not just about crowns and titles, they are about purpose, passion, and making a difference. That is why I stand firmly in support of their continued relevance.
Lastly your message for all those aspiring girls who wants to win a beauty pageant?
Don’t approach it as a race, but see it as an opportunity for personal growth and transformation. You don’t need to win a title to make a meaningful impact on society. What truly makes you a queen isn’t the crown you wear, but how you treat others and the positive changes you bring to the world.
By Zanita Careem
Fashion
Mythical Ceylon Collection by CHARINI

By Zanita Careem
CHARINI is a well-known brand renowned for its bold yet elegant statement designs and unique concepts. This season,popular designer CHARINI will be presenting a collection that gives Sri Lankan traditional art a contemporary twist, bringing the mythical creatures of Sri Lankan history to life, beautified with floral elements from ancient paintings.
Each element has been meticulously hand-drawn with intricate details, staying true to the rich heritage of Sri Lankan artistry. These hand-drawn illustrations have then been carefully transformed into artworks, which are printed onto fabric to seamlessly blend tradition with modern design. This fusion of craftsmanship and innovation brings a unique depth to each piece in the collection. This is… the Mythical Ceylon Collection by CHARINI.’’
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