Fashion
Creating the looks for CFW
By Zanita Careem
The Colombo Fashion Week has been a major event in the World of style and fashion.
Although most eyes are on the models on the runaway and the applause is directed towards the designers, but who are the major players behind the scene. We spoke to Ramani Fernando of Ramani Fernando salons who has been part of Colombo Fashion Week from inception. She talks about the pressures of being backstage . Theres plenty to look forward to each day ,from inspiring fashion to avant garde hairstyles,to dazzling make-up She believes Colombo Fashion week is a dazzling spectacular platform of style and creativity.
In Sri Lanka fashion week is the time honoured and highly anticipated tradition presented by Ajay Vir Singh ,founder and president of Colombo Fashion Week. Ramani’s whose career spans decades in the beauty and fashion industry and her name garners the highest praise throughout the fashion week and beyond. The iconic looks of models created by Ramani and her team are far reaching. Each style she crafts comes from deep inspiration and influences the most notable trend of the season.
Ramani’s work at the CFW is highly sought after by the designers. There is always a mixture of excitement, tension, adrenaline time restraints, and it becomes more and more challenging every year Ramani explains.
CFW has been an important event in the fashion calendar and you have been part of it from inception your comments?
For 21 years, I’ve been honored to be a part of Colombo Fashion Week, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Sri Lanka’s fashion landscape.
I believe that hair and makeup are integral parts of CFW, playing a huge role in elevating the overall aesthetic of the event while also contributing to the seamless execution of each designer’s vision. As a trusted partner, my team and I have worked closely with designers and models to create stunning looks that captivate audiences and embody the essence of fashion.
If you could go back to your first year of the fashion week. What things have changed since then?
Looking back at my first year at Colombo Fashion Week, several significant changes have occurred. The event has grown in scale and diversity, with increased international participation and a broader embrace of styles. Advancements in technology have transformed how the event is experienced, with a greater emphasis on sustainability and ethical fashion.
In essence, while much has changed since my first year at Colombo Fashion Week, what remains constant is the event’s dedication to celebrating Sri Lankan fashion, fostering creativity and giving the best.
What distinguishes fashion week for you from other shows. Does it bring anything new or particularly influence your style ?
It’s not just about showcasing individual designers or brands but represents a comprehensive overview of the latest trends and styles within the industry. The dynamic atmosphere of Fashion Week, with its multitude of runway shows, presentations, and events, creates an immersive experience that continuously inspires and challenges my own sense of style. Fashion Week serves as a hub for creativity and experimentation, often introducing new concepts, materials, and techniques that influence my personal style.
You as a veteran stylist do a variety of hair styles and make up on different models. How does your process change with each and every model?
As a veteran stylist, I adapt my approach to each model’s unique characteristics and preferences. I assess their hair texture, facial features, and skin type to customize the hair and makeup accordingly. Communication is key to aligning with their vision, and flexibility allows me to address any challenges or last-minute changes. Problem-solving skills come into play when dealing with diverse hair and skin types, ensuring a flawless final look tailored to each individual.
From the first inception of CFW event has styles changed?
Since the inception of Colombo Fashion Week, styles have undoubtedly evolved but over time, the event has embraced a more diverse range of styles and influences. Global fashion trends, as well as the evolving tastes of designers and consumers, have contributed to this shift. Additionally, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainability and ethical fashion, reflecting broader societal concerns within the industry. Overall, the styles showcased at Colombo Fashion Week have become more dynamic, inclusive, and reflective of the global fashion landscape.
How did you find inspiration to create new looks for every event?
Keeping abreast of the latest fashion trends and attending runway shows provides valuable inspiration. Observing how designers interpret trends and push boundaries can spark creative ideas for new looks.
Can you tell us more about the creative process, how do you create new styles, make up for each model?
The process begins with gathering inspiration from various sources such as fashion magazines, social media, art, nature, and cultural influences.
Once inspired, the next step is to conceptualize the overall theme or vision for the styling.
Each model is unique, with different facial features, skin tones, hair textures, and personal styles. Assessing the models individually helps determine the most flattering and cohesive hair and makeup looks
What do you look for when assessing the new styles on the runaway every year?
Keeping abreast of current fashion trends is essential. I observe how designers interpret and incorporate trends into their collections, whether it’s through color palettes, prints, or design details. Styles that reflect a contemporary aesthetic while also offering a fresh perspective on current trends tend to resonate with audiences.
What can we expect to see from you next?
Overall, you can expect to see my team and myself continue to innovate and inspire, with a dedication to creativity, sustainability, diversity, and personalized styling, we are committed to delivering unforgettable fashion experiences.
Can you describe a typical day during fashion week. What are the best things about fashion week?
Early morning preparation The day often starts early with preparations for the day’s events. This may involve reviewing schedules, coordinating with the team, and gathering necessary equipment and supplies.
Backstage areas are buzzing with energy as stylists, makeup artists, and hairdressers work diligently to transform models into the vision of the designer. This involves quick changes between shows, ensuring that each model looks flawless before hitting the runway.
Fashion week is a prime opportunity for capturing content for social media?
The fast-paced nature of fashion week and the anticipation of seeing new collections and designs create an atmosphere of excitement and energy that is truly exhilarating.
Overall, fashion week is a thrilling and immersive experience that celebrates the artistry, craftsmanship, and innovation of the fashion industry.
The worst things?
Fashion week can be incredibly demanding, with long hours, tight deadlines, and high-pressure situations. The fast-paced nature of the event can lead to stress and exhaustion, especially for those working behind the scenes.
How do you describe a typical day of hairdressing during fashion week? How do you translate your design and creative ideas into reality?
The day often starts early with preparations at the backstage area. This involves setting up workstations, organizing tools and products, and reviewing the day’s schedule with the styling team.
Before the shows begin, hairdressers assess each model’s hair texture, length, and condition. This helps determine the most suitable hairstyles and any necessary prepping or treatments required.
Hairdressers collaborate closely with designers, makeup artists, and stylists to understand the creative vision for each show. This involves reviewing mood boards, discussing inspirations, and aligning on the desired hair looks for the runway.
Has anything changed, like hairstyles, make up, designer wear, style ?
Yes, indeed, fashion is an ever-evolving industry, and changes are constantly observed in hairstyles, makeup trends, designer wear, and overall style.
Are you proud of your advertisements?
I take pride in long-standing collaborations and successful advertisements, particularly when they represent a commitment to excellence and a positive reputation within the industry. Ramani Fernando salons long-standing partnerships and contributions to events like Colombo fashion wee k and, Ramani Fernando Salons’ 21-year involvement with fashion week has been a strong commitment to the fashion industry and a successful track record of providing hairstyling and makeup services for the event.
Irish fashion designer Paul Costelloe has died in London aged 80.
Costelloe became one of the best-known names in British and Irish fashion and was personal designer to the late Diana, the Princess of Wales.
His family issued a statement on Saturday saying they were “deeply saddened to announce the passing of Paul Costelloe following a short illness”.
They added: “He was surrounded by his wife and seven children and passed peacefully in London.”
He was born in Dublin where his father ran a successful company making raincoats.
After studying at the Grafton Academy of Fashion Design he moved to Paris where he took a course at the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in Paris.
He set up his own label in 1979, Paul Costelloe Collections, and presented collections at London Fashion Week, as well as in Paris, Milan and New York.
In 1983 he was appointed personal designer to Diana, Princess of Wales, a collaboration which continued until her death in 1997.
Costelloe often used traditional Irish fabrics and textiles in his designs, including Irish linen and tweed.
He collaborated with Dunnes Stores and was the closing designer for the inaugural Ireland Fashion Week in October this year.
He was criticised in 1998 when he said that Irish women lacked style.
“Irish women have difficulty with style because it’s not in their inner nature… like the Italians,” he said at the time
However, during an interview with Irish broadcaster RTÉ this year, he said he felt that Ireland was more European than years ago.
Taoiseach (Irish PM) Micheál Martin said he was “very saddened to learn of the passing of Paul Costelloe”.
“An icon of design, Paul elevated Irish fashion to the global stage,” he said.
Tánaiste (deputy PM) Simon Harris said Costelloe had “led a remarkable life”.
Harris added: “He built a hugely successful business through incredible talent, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
“He leaves behind a body of work that shaped modern Irish fashion and will continue to shape it in the years to come. He will be greatly missed and warmly remembered.”
[BBC]
Colombo Fashion Week CFW marked a glittering milestone this season -22 glamorous years of elevating Sri Lankan fashion. CFW ‘s evolving platform has shaped designers,nurtured creativity and positioned the island on the global style map
While becoming one of the most influential style platforms in South Asia,what began as a visionary initiative has grown into a movement shaping designers, nurturing talent, reviving craftsmanship and bringing global attention to the region’s extraordinary design language.
This anniversary will shimmer with nostalgia, innovation and unmistakable South Asian flow.
From handwoven saris reimagined for the modern woman to bold menswear, resort wear, sustainable collections and couture dipping in embellishments.
CFW has proved once again that Sri Lanka stands proudly among the region’s fashion capitals.
Over the past decades CFW has redefined the region’s fashion identity.it created opportunities for young designers to open pathways to international markets, revived craft communities, and built a culture where fashion is both creative and responsible.
Today, its influence extends beyond Sri Lanka attracting designers and fashion lovers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and the wider South Asian sphere.
No celebration is complete without acknowledging the artistry of Raman Fernando, whose beauty direction has shaped the CFW aesthetic since its inception.Her partnership has been integral to elevating the event’s aesthetic from the backstage transformations to the signature looks that complemented each designer’s wish.
Twenty two years on CFW, remains more than a fashion show, it has shaped Sri Lanka’s design voices, contributed to the region’s fashion economy and created a dynamic bridge connecting South Asian talent with the world.
As CFW celebrates its 22 year journey one great thing is clear – the next chapter promises more brilliance, innovation and South Asian glamour. CFW continues to champion young talent through its emerging designer programmes giving newcomers the guidance needed to enter the industry with confidence.
This November Colombo fashion week steps into a bold new chapter with the launch of its latest season titled Couture and Trousseau .a refined platform dedicated to craftsmanship, luxury and modern elegance. This new edition will spotlight Sri Lankan and South Asian designers who specialise in refined couture techniques, artisanal detailing and timeless elegance.
The Couture and Trousseau Edition aims to showcase fashion as both art and heritage where modern silhouettes meet meticulous handicrafts and where designers elevate their creations to the realms of treasured pieces.
The new theme, I am sure will promise a unique runaway rich in sophistication, drama and the signature glamour for which CFW is known for
Couture and Trousseau – the season that redefines Sri Lanka fashion
A new era of elegance, couture and trousseau takes over
Beyond the runway presentations, CFW has established a substantive track record with at least 80% of featured designers having emerged from its ecosystem, with particular emphasis on nurturing Sri Lankan talent. Designers who have developed their craft through CFW have subsequently achieved international recognition, demonstrating that sustained commitment and strategic focus deliver results in an industry often characterized by transient trends.
At 22 years, CFW stands as one of only four fashion weeks in Asia to surpass the two-decade mark, a feat that underscores both its resilience and its relevance. Unlike many regional events that have come and gone, CFW has evolved into a diplomatic force, fostering reciprocal partnerships with fashion weeks across the BRICS nations, the Commonwealth, and South Asia.
This extends beyond runway presentations. CFW generates measurable economic impact through tourism, hospitality infrastructure development, and the creation of business opportunities that benefit host cities and their broader communities. The platform’s model demonstrates how strategic cultural investment can drive commercial growth across multiple sectors simultaneously.
Since 2003, CFW has systematically expanded its scope, inviting designers from neighbouring nations to share the platform with Sri Lankan counterparts. The result is a distinctive space where regional diversity is celebrated rather than marginalized and where collaboration supersedes competition. In a geopolitical climate frequently defined by division, CFW presents an alternative narrative: fashion as shared language, commerce as common ground.
This November 2025, CFW’s new season titled ‘Couture and Trousseau,’ strategically focusing on a segment of fashion that presents significant growth opportunities for Sri Lankan designers: bridal and destination weddings. This expansion reflects South Asia’s burgeoning bridal market and positions Sri Lankan designers to capture a larger share of this lucrative sector. By identifying and activating relevant commercial opportunities prior to each season, CFW continues to demonstrate that regional collaboration and sustained investment in creative talent can reshape not only an industry, but the economic landscape of an entire region.
The Couture + Trousseau season of CFW was presented in partnership with Nations Trust Bank American Express, Cinnamon Grand, Lanka Tiles, IDL, Vision Care, Hameedia, ITC, Beauty by Rosh, Ramani Fernando Salons, , Emerging Media, Hardtalk and Acorn whose continued collaboration strengthens CFW’s commitment to celebrating innovation, creativity, and craftsmanship within Sri Lanka’s fashion industry.
Two Miss Universe judges have resigned days before the annual beauty pageant, with one of them accusing organisers of rigging the selection process.
Lebanese-French musician Omar Harfouch, who announced his resignation from the eight-member jury on Instagram, alleged that an “impromptu jury” had pre-selected finalists ahead of the competition, set to be held on Friday in Thailand.
Hours later, French football manager Claude Makélélé also announced he’d pulled out, citing “unforeseen personal reasons”.
The resignations come two weeks after several Miss Universe contestants walked out of a pre-pageant event over controversial comments made by an official from host nation Thailand.
“An impromptu jury has been formed to select 30 finalists from among the 136 participating countries, without the presence of any of the real eight members of the jury, including me,” Harfouch wrote in an Instagram post on Tuesday, saying he had discovered this via social media.
The unofficial jury comprises “individuals with a significant potential conflict of interest due to some personal relationships with some of the Miss Universe contestants”, he claimed.
Harfouch did not elaborate on how this “impromptu jury” would function, or how it would override the official jury’s decision.
The Miss Universe Organisation on Tuesday put out a statement to rebuff Harfouch’s claims, saying that “no external group has been authorised to evaluate delegates or select finalists”.
It suggested that Harfouch may have been referring to the Beyond the Crown programme: a “social impact initiative” that operates independently from the Miss Universe competition, and has a separate selection committee.
The Miss Universe Organisation announced the Beyond the Crown selection committee on Monday. In its statement on Tuesday, the organisation said that Harfouch’s allegations had “mischaracterised” the programme.
Mr Makélélé, who also announced his resignation via Instagram, described it as a “difficult decision”. “I hold Miss Universe in the highest regard. The platform represents empowerment, diversity, and excellence – values I have always championed throughout my career,” he wrote.
The beauty pageant drew backlash earlier this month after its Thailand director Nawat Itsaragrisil publicly berated Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, at a pre-pageant event for not posting promotional content on her social media platforms.
In videos that have since gone viral, Ms Bosch and several other contestants could be seen walking out of the event, and some could be heard shouting at Nawat.
Mr Nawat later claimed that some of his words were misunderstood – but his conduct nevertheless prompted a stern rebuke from the Miss Universe Organisation, which has since sent a delegation of international executives to take over running the competition.
[BBC]
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