Connect with us

Fashion

Khalida, young entrepreneur plays colours and textures

Published

on

Chief guests Faleela Be Jurampathy and Kadeeja Razzak

By Zanita Careem

Walk into “Arwa Studio” at One Galle Face Mall and you cannot help but notice the exclusive collection of abayas, shawls, bags and other silhouettes – a beautiful blend between the modern and tradition clothing, Born out of passion, her abaya collection infuses colour, elegance and style. Khalida Jameel, a young entrepreneur, started her eponymous luxury clothing label recently. Her signature label has become renowned for its exquisite abayas and shawls. Hailing from a conservative Muslim family, she had her first Abaya studio at home, but with the growing demand for her creations, she decided to move out. Subsequently the Arwa Studio was born. ” My journey was one of inspiration and aspiration and we decided to give “Arwa Studio” a permanent home on the 9th floor at One Galle Face .

The elegant and sophisticated designs at Arwa Studio make them a wardrobe staple for those seeking a touch of glamour and modesty.

The intricate embroidery, beadwork, and sequin embellishments further enhance their beauty, adding a touch of opulence to all of her ensembles, Whether you opt for a classic black abaya or explore vibrant colours and patterns, the result is her creations exude grace and elegance.

.Her Abaya Studio was born out of labour of love between Khalida and husband, Adlan Nazeemudeen who worked together hand in hand putting it all together. Words of encouragement from her family and friends were incredible.

What made you to take this venture seriously and make a career out of it?

The success I found after creating my first opening and the positive vibes I received made me to take fashion seriously and wanted to make a career without engaging in mundane household chores.

How has your work evolved since you began your own label?

In regard to the style I make sure to introduce new designs and ideas every season and to still maintain my signature style. I have a team of specialist and experienced seamdresses to maintain higher standards of professionalism.

Young entrepreneur Khalida Jameel

Khalida with Reema Azeez and Hafsa Huzair and mother Nazik

Tell about your design philosophy?

Arwa Studio is all about the woman who loves style, appreciates quality and has an eye for beauty, we love to play with soft and bold colours by mixing textiles and creating contrasts. My styles are unique and one of a kind.An Abaya is a super hero’s cape and women are the modern day superheroes. I have an eye for colours. and always add a touch of glitter. My abaya collection creates a perfect blend with the veil of ‘hijab’ adding to the serene beauty of women. I carefully choose embellishments to spice up the splendour of the Abaya designs, accessories and embellishments. These embellishments can either dampen the designs or add life to it.

How do you describe your sense of style?

My Abayas are modern, contemporary, and I try to give a modern twist beyond its traditional image and look. If you’re a fashion enthusiast, The beauty of my collection lies not only in thier outward apperance but also in the comfort they provide. These loose fitting nature of my abayas allows for ease of movement ,making them suitable for various occasions and our climate.

To me abayas give confidence. It’s more than a design, fabric or even the brand. Its all about wearing it with confidence.

Describe your brand?

Experimental, elegance and chic.

Black Abayas vs coloured Abaya what would you choose and why?

Definitely black. Black Abayas are elegant, timeless and easy to wear.

Beautiful decor for the Arwa Studio was created by Hafsa Huzair

Pix by Nishan S Priyantha



Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Fashion

Season of sparkle: Priyanthi’s Christmas soiree

Published

on

Family affair- son-in-law Oyvind, daughter Shiranthi, Priyanthi and grandson Lucas

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)

Continue Reading

Fashion

Shaping the future of style

Published

on

Pride, passion and professionalism

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.

Senaka de Silva, creative force behind Ramani’s shows

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

A moment of pride Ramani with chief guest Rosy Senanayake

Statement in style

Gliding in romance and sophistication

Pix by Thushara Attapathu

By Zanita Careem ✍️

Continue Reading

Fashion

Capturing the spirit of Christmas

Published

on

Romesh Atapaattu, overseas the magic behind every cut and style at Capello salons

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

Continue Reading

Trending