- Emerging Talent: 12 designers will showcase fresh perspectives on Sri Lankan fashion.
- Craft Fashion Fund: Supports designers incorporating traditional craftsmanship.
- Industry Integration: Emerging designers will present collections alongside established names.
Colombo Fashion Week’s Emerging Designer Platform continues to be a driving force in shaping Sri Lanka’s fashion industry. This season introduces 12 promising designers, each bringing unique creativity to the runway.
A major addition this year is the Craft Fashion Fund, which aims to support designers incorporating Sri Lankan heritage crafts into their collections. Two winners will be selected—one specializing in batik and another using other indigenous techniques—ensuring that local artistry finds its place on the global stage.
The Future of Sri Lankan Fashion: 12 Designers to Watch at CFW
The Emerging Designer Platform at Colombo Fashion Week serves as a launchpad for young talent, fostering creativity and business acumen. Under the guidance of industry experts, these designers will showcase collections that merge heritage with modern fashion sensibilities.
Mentor Sharmila Ruberu plays a crucial role in refining the skills of these designers, providing hands-on guidance that extends beyond creativity to strategic brand-building. The platform ensures that new designers not only create visually stunning collections but also develop the knowledge to navigate the global fashion industry.
This year’s lineup includes talents like Mevini Amarasinghe, who is reviving the art of batik with contemporary silhouettes, and Arsath Furkhan, a self-taught designer known for his structured, elegant pieces. Their work exemplifies how Sri Lankan designers are redefining the boundaries of fashion.
The decision to integrate emerging designers throughout the four-day event, rather than limiting them to a single showcase, reflects Colombo Fashion Week’s commitment to meaningful exposure. By sharing the stage with industry veterans, these designers gain a platform to establish their presence in a competitive industry.
With a focus on craftsmanship, sustainability, and innovation, Colombo Fashion Week’s Emerging Designer Platform continues to shape the future of Sri Lankan fashion. By nurturing local talent and preserving traditional artistry, CFW is building a globally competitive fashion identity.
“Fashion is the armor to survive the reality of everyday life.” – Bill Cunningham.
