kǣli

kǣli -කෑලි- defines as Pieces in my native tongue, Sinhalese. This design aims to incorporate different kǣli from the artisanal crafts as well as neo-futuristic architecture to produce a timeless piece. kǣli was able to upcycle and revitalise factory waste tread and unloved denim by giving them a new identity and a purpose.
kǣli integrates Bobbin Lace (Beerulu), dyed using Turmeric and reinvented Handloom by using factory wastage and fabric cut-offs with Turmeric dyed Beerulu to produce handwoven panels. Inner garment lining uses turmeric and Shibori Dyeing to achieve a soothing fabric.

Since the very beginning of my journey in fashion, my vision has always been about exploring sustainable fashion avenues and practices. I seek to incorporate my Sri Lankan heritage and sustainable methods of the ancient Sri Lankan culture to support slow fashion and to produce eco-friendly garments. I believe that as upcoming designers; we have an enormous duty to create eco-friendly trends since the fashion industry has become one of the most polluting industries in the world. Personally, through my designs, I attempt to communicate the importance of the slow fashion movement.

• Preselected for Green Concept Awards 2021 - Fashion
• NU Student Scholarship for the Academic Year 2020
• Shilanthi Abayagunawardana Textile Design Scholarship for the Year 2019