Fashion
Sharmini of ‘Silk Wrap Fame’
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.
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
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.’’
Nescafé Sri Lanka launched their “Nescafé Fashion Café” at Colombo Fashion Week 2025, a first-of-its-kind experience blending coffee with fashion, serving as the official coffee partner for the event. It was designed to be a unique hub for designers, artists, influencers, and fashion enthusiasts to connect As a brand that awakens senses and fuel ambition, the Nescafe Fashion Cafe will be a creative space where the energy of thr runway meets the warmth of a perfectly brewed cafe. This is a celebration of creativity,individuality, that resonate values deeply with Nescafe said Bernie Stefan Managing Director Nestle Lanka
Buddhism’s holiest site erupts in protests over Hindu ‘control’ of shrine
Man jailed after rape caught on washing machine reflection
Three new envoys to Sri Lanka present credentials to the President
-
Business4 days agoCargoserv Shipping partners Prima Ceylon & onboards Nestlé Lanka for landmark rail logistics initiative
-
Sports7 days agoSri Lanka to compete against USA, Jamaica in relay finals
-
Features2 days agoThe US, Israel, Palestine, and Mahmoud Khalil
-
News2 days agoScholarships for children of estate workers now open
-
Business4 days agoSri Lankans Vote Dialog as the Telecommunication Brand and Service Brand of the Year
-
News2 days agoSeniors welcome three percent increase in deposit rates
-
News3 days agoDefence Ministry of Japan Delegation visits Pathfinder Foundation
-
Features4 days agoThe Vaping Veil: Unmasking the dangers of E-Cigarettes