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Sharmini of ‘Silk Wrap Fame’

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Sharmini with her favourite model Chula

Sharmini Seneviratne is known for pushing boundaries and leading the next generation of elegant fashions. She was the founder of the popular designer label “Silk Wrap” Her ensembles appeal to every women from all ages,corporate women, celebrities, fashionistas and models. She looks beyond the shores of Sri Lanka, drawing inspirations from all over the world. Her work is infused with both simplicity and elegance.

Sharmini has made a name in the competitve business of Sri Lankan fashion industry, having made a successful stint here and abroad.Her passion for fashion and unwavering dedication led her to establish the popular label “Silk Wrap “, a brand that is recognised for glamour and elegance.

Q When did you start your career in fashion?

A My career as a fashion designer started after I stopped flying as a air hostess for Air Lanka I was always very fashion conscious as a kid, even use to cut up my mother’s sarees to dress my dolls, and later I entered the famous Fashion College in London St. Martins.

Sharmini Seneviratne designer

Q What inspired your entrance into the fashion industry?

A The flying career and my mother together inspired me into fashion . My parents were living in England, this helped me to explore and broaden my knowledge about all aspects of fashion This was the key to my fashion story, In the 60’s there was no Fashion, or fashion magazines in Sri Lanka only Rupavahini TV station, hence there was no exposure for Sr Lankan designers to international fashion shows. My fashion career was not easy. We had many ups and downs depended mainly on magazines like “Cosmopolitan” “Vogue” “Harpers Bazaar” and other magazines for inspiration

Q Tell us about the story behind the label “Silk Wrap “.

A “SilkWrap”, was named because my ensembles were all created from natural silks from Sri Lanka and Thailand. There was a dearth for ready to wear clothing at that time. My main focus was evening wear with silks and chiffons creating ensembles with glitz and glamour

Q How do you keep up with the fashion industry then and now?

A Fashion is something you create and it is unique,reflecting the culture, weather, moods, a mix of so many of them put together with a myriad of colours, feelings and love. The ethereal six yards of saree creates magic on any individual.

Q Highlight of your career?

A I have so many special moments in my fashion career, I’ve done many international catwalk shows reflecting my design. I have taken our local models to the international catwalks The benchmark in my career was the successful show in Tokyo. My designs made a hit and I sold all my ensembles, to 900 Japanese ladies. I also had had the honour of taking “Silkwrap” to Japan, Oman, Bangalore, Maldives, Dubai and London. I had the privilege of designing for Michael Jackson sister “Latoya Jackson. I was also a

Q Where do you get your inspiration for your designs?

A My designs are my own creations. My inspiration comes from nature, and derive from all things beautiful around me. A nice elegant cut, contemporary in design are my forte.

Q What are your challenges and how do you overcome them?

A I faced no challenge in my career. Each of the designers work differently and I respect their creativity. A

Q Your future plans ?

A I am proud that I have contributed to the progress of the fashion industry in Sri Lanka. We are on par with international fashion designers. All of us have worked without any assistance from the government.

Q Many of your designs explore modern day glamour what does it mean to you?

A I keep abreast with modern day designs, yet try to depend on classic and simple lines emphasing on cut and style.We are also all creative artist’s, who understand others needs and moods and designs accordingly which is not easy.

Q Present fashion industry in Sri Lanka?

A Over the years I have been following Colombo fashion weeks and other fashion shows.. Sad to say most of the designers have no originality in thier work. Designers like Senaka de Silva, Lo Ching, Yoland, Purnima, Darshi and Michele Wijesuriya are some of the designers who have created a benchmark in the local fashion scene.



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Fashion

Season of sparkle: Priyanthi’s Christmas soiree

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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)

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Shaping the future of style

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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 ✍️

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Capturing the spirit of Christmas

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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

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