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Seeing world thro’ art

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by Zanita Careem

Raffealla (an internationally recognized photographer) believes art is how you want to see the world. Passionate about art since her school days in St. Bridget’s Convent Colombo, Raffaella Fernando was a woman who always wanted ‘to do something unique and create art with her innovative ideas. She said with pride “From a my young age, my paintings and art were extraordinary, and nothing could stop me once I received a camera as a gift from my father.’ With a motivation to pursue a career of my own, I started photography and designing and reached success at a very young age due to my creative talent and enthusiasm.

Raffealla Fernando Photography is Raffaella’s photography brand, under which her most popular brand, the Raffealla Fernando Celebrity Calendar (RFCC). RFCC has been annually published, featuring multiple celebrities across Sri Lanka. Raffealla has been closely working with an interesting team of celebrities while collaborating with makeup artists, designers, etc. Her luxury designer brand is known as ‘Raffealla’, which she claims to define herself the most, and her more affordable designer brand is ‘Mermaidish’. She has also collaborated with a few other designers while contributing to the above brands.

A highlight of her career was when she became the “Best Fashion Photographer of the Year” at the 5th International Achievers Award 2017 London out of 310 contestants across the globe. She has also made us proud with her World Ranking of the 8th best photographer of the world, competing with 150 other photographers at the BEFTA Awards UK. Another wonderful milestone of her career life is being invited to design for the 69th and 71st Cannes Film Festivals where she could showcase her talent to the world as the first Sri Lankan designer of all. Raffealla also showcased in the London Fashion Week, where her designs were cherished among all. She also reminisces the opportunity she got to showcase one of her collections to the Prince Charles Charity Trust 41st Anniversary as well as becoming a finalist on the New York Fashion Week, bringing pride to Sri Lanka.

 

Can you tell us about yourself and how you got into photography?

Fashion designing came first, I started off as a fashion designer and after three years I started my journey as a fashion photographer. I was very much passionate about photography since I was a school girl, I was part of the school photographic society and has also won few interschool photography competitions. When I was about 14 years old I won an Art competition and my father asked me what I need as a gift and I said I want a camera, I still remember my first camera was the F25 lumix SLR camera, my passion and interest grew from there and gradually I found the interest for fashion photography through my fashion background.

How do you describe your individual style?

I have dark twist to my style, not particularly a signature look but I like more black so I mix black with all most all my clothes. I try a lot of looks, makeup and hair styles, I am person who explores and experiment a lot with style and fashion.

When comes to my Photography I have conceptualized style, I love to tell stories I also look at myself as story teller sometimes because a lot of thinking goes into my thought process when it comes to my concept shoots.

To summarize it’s dark, conceptualized and creative.

How do account for your fearless approach to the fashion world?

I’ve always been myself and I let it flow seamlessly. Fashion industry in the only place I always wanted to work since I started dreaming from a right mind. I don’t know if it was fearless because I was very young when I entered the Industry, the excitement was way much that all I can remember is that I worked very hard to do new things in the industry also to have my own place and stay.

As an award winning photographer? What is your first preference?

Fashion photography.

It’s very hard to pick from both because I started as a designer and then got in to Photography. But if I speak honestly I love taking photographs more because I get to create a whole new different world through creative eyes.

What made you to name your brand Raffealla?

I think my name itself does the best branding for me , that’s why I using my name as my brand name as well…. I grew up disliking my name so much thinking it is so different and now I think it works in my favour. Also I have a fond memory with my grandmother who is no more with us, she named me Raffealla and I used to ask her ” why did you name me Raffealla , it’s such an ugly name ” and she use to always tell me ” no its such a unique name, thank me later when you grow up “

Why did you change your career from film direction and journalism?

Well I’m very new to film direction, at the moment I’m planning on my very first film direction and that is something I’m really looking forward to.

I started to work as a fashion journalist at the age of 18 I continued for five years and gradually and sadly I had to stop because I couldn’t find the time to continue.

Actually didn’t change but my direction from it I changed my direction towards it.

Do you have any signature styles?

Not particularly but creating concepts and stories are more of my style and kind of work.

Difference between art photography and fashion photography?

I would like to call both “art” , but there is a whole world of difference between conceptualized photography and fashion photography, because it’s so different to each of the style

In fashion photography we always want to keep it trendy,fashionable , styling and what we always highlight is the fashion, but in conceptualized photography we highlight the concept, the story, the expressions it’s the soul of the concept we try to highlight. Art Photography is more of an abstract style.

What are your plans for this year with the endemic spreading?

Fashion photography is an incredibly

competitive niche .

What steps you have taken to be above the rest

Consistency is definitely the key of success, as women we sometimes have to work as twice as hard as a man, it is a good thing I am not complaining about it because it helps us a lot to grow. So I always feel consistency is the key just be consistent and do what you do, continue even when you fall and fail. It is a beautiful industry to work , of course like any other industry we do have a different side , it is very competitive like you said and cut throat. I try to be constant as much as I can, do new projects, explore and experiment with myself and I do a lot of work on me to make myself a better and a fuller artist.

What according to you is fashion?

Fashion is the form of clothing, accessories, and furniture. It can be used by everyone. It is related to culture,

style is such a personal thing it does not change with seasons, for example, Micheal jackson , queen etc they had such unique styles.

The above was the technical part of fashion and style, for me fashion is a language, helps to understand people and also feelings. If you are happy you dress well and when you aren’t you dress down and bad sometimes.

What do feel most challenging/interesting?

Every single working day is challenging and interesting especially these days as we all push more to create, we work a lot on the virtual platforms and I find it the most interesting.

Like last year I conducted Sri lankas very first solo virtual photography exhibition, we launched it online during the second lockdown period. I found it interesting how we make use of platform we previously didn’t consider.

What do you think are the most important traits a fashion model should have?

Understanding fashion, light and camera. A conscious mind of movement to move with the camera and lights, I appreciate a lot when models listen.

A little bit on jewellery designing

I have a higher national diploma in Jewellery designing and something I always enjoyed applying for my designs and styling. I create a lot of jewellery with throwing away material and create recycle and upcycled jewellery for my collections.



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Life style

Five Exciting New Categories from Mackly and SEDA

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Sharmila Srikumar , Founder Mackly and SEDA

Mackly, sleep and loungewear brand that caters to both kids and moms, is synonymous with passion, vision, and dedication. It has quickly become a powerhouse in the industry, opened its flagship retail store at the One Galle Face Mall in 2021 recently.

Sharmila Srikumar, the founder, is a visionary entrepreneur and devoted mother of three daughters. Mackly originated from Sharmila’s personal quest for the perfect pajamas for her children. Baby Clan, a sub-brand at Mackly, offers newborn essentials extending up to the age of two. Renowned for its 100% breathable cotton material, Mackly Sleepwear undergoes meticulous testing for safety, comfort, and style. Srikumar emphasizes, “We run world-class quality checks on our products related to wearability factors and root out the presence of harmful chemicals such as phthalates.”

Mackly was initially conceived as a mother and child sleepwear brand, but due to overwhelming consumer demand, the brand evolved to include exciting new collections for teens, women, and men.

Today, Mackly and SEDA stand as a testament to Sharmila’s creative focus, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering commitment to quality.

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Life style

Sheraton Colombo Hotel celebrates International Women’s Day with empowering insights

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Sheraton Colombo Hotel, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, marked International Women’s Day with a powerful event themed ‘Women at the Workplace,’ bringing together influential women leaders to inspire and empower attendees.

Sheraton Colombo’s International Women’s Day celebration reaffirmed the hotel’s commitment to promoting gender equality, empowerment, and creating an inclusive environment that nurtures and uplifts women professionals.

The celebration featured keynote speeches’ from Amanthi Perera, Head of Social Sustainability at MAS Holdings, Sharnila Henry, Partner at Deloitte Sri Lanka, and Roshanie Jayasundera Moraes, CEO of Link Natural Products Pvt Ltd. They shared their inspiring journeys and invaluable insights.

The event also provided a platform for women to connect, share experiences, and gain valuable insights from trailblazers who have excelled in their respective fields. The speakers’ stories of perseverance, dedication, and unwavering determination served as a powerful reminder of the incredible potential women possess.

Female associates of Sheraton Colombo Hotel had the opportunity to participate in interactive activities, attend a women’s health session, and capture cherished moments during a photoshoot session. The celebration also incorporated uplifting elements, such as a dance warm-up and high tea, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and joy.

Amanthi Perera, a sustainability champion, shared her journey advocating for environmental and social issues while navigating the challenges women face in balancing multiple roles. She encouraged women to celebrate their achievements, seek help when needed, and embrace small steps that drive meaningful change.

Addressing the participants, she said “My passion was for the environment and sustainability. My journey has been one of continuous growth as a woman wearing multiple hats. When doors closed, I found new opportunities. Moving away from home for my studies taught me independence and perseverance. While striving for dreams, ask graciously, accept rejections, and let go. Small changes make a big difference, so speak up about achievements with pride. Give selflessly, seek help, and find your unique life-work balance. Most importantly, choose a fulfilling career path.”

Sharnila Henry, a leader in the auditing and accounting field, emphasized the importance of financial independence and mindful decision-making. She inspired attendees with lessons learned from her parents on being a ‘people’s leader’ and maintaining a healthy work-life balance through trust and commitment.

Recalling her journey she said, “Workplace challenges taught me to embrace multitasking and manage change positively as a learning opportunity. I am grateful to my parents for instilling the values of being a ‘people’s leader’, loving yet firm – lessons I pass to my own children. Financial independence brings security, so strive for it before long-term commitments. Be mindful in decisions, considering others’ perspectives. Do not stress over perfection; focus on doing your best work. Prioritize quality family time, be there for milestones. Gain your employer’s trust through commitment to maintain work-life balance. Set your heart on goals, taking small steps with perseverance to achieve them.”

Roshanie Jayasundera Moraes, a seasoned corporate leader, celebrated the strength of womanhood and the resilience to handle difficult situations. She highlighted the power of building relationships, continual learning, and the importance of saving and investing for financial stability and independence.

She advised, “Career paths can move laterally or even downwards before moving up again, therefore embrace the journey. As women, we are blessed with inner strength to handle difficulties. Prioritize saving and investing to secure financial stability. Build relationships through hard work; others will support your growth. Prove your worth by outworking everyone. Continuous learning elevates your ascent up the ladder. Let your skill and performance speak for you”

Sheraton Colombo Hotel’s International Women’s Day celebration served as a powerful catalyst. Through inspiring stories shared by distinguished speakers, the participants were inspired with a collective determination to break barriers and uplift one another on the journey towards empowerment and equality.

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Fashion

Creating the looks for CFW

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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.


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