Born and raised in Bandarawela, Sri Lanka, Charini Suriyage has ascended to prominence as one of the island’s finest fashion designers. Known for her sustainable, elegant creations, Charini has established herself as a key player on both local and international stages, with her designs becoming a staple at Colombo Fashion Week, where she has showcased in fifteen editions. A household name in Colombo, she is the go-to designer for red carpet events and high-profile gatherings, captivating audiences with her distinct blend of Sri Lankan heritage and contemporary style.
Her journey began early, with a deep-rooted fascination for fashion and design that grew during her teenage years. Despite initial family encouragement to pursue a career in science, Charini eventually followed her passion for fashion. After studying Biology in school, she pursued her true calling by enrolling at the University of Moratuwa, where she earned a BA in Fashion Design. She later moved to London to complete a Master’s in Fashion Management at the prestigious London College of Fashion, gaining valuable exposure to global fashion perspectives.
Upon returning to Sri Lanka, Charini worked in the apparel industry, gaining hands-on experience at MAS Holdings, where she spent over thirteen years and eventually served as Head Designer for MAS Intimates. In 2008, she launched her own brand, Charini, debuting her collection at Colombo Fashion Week. This platform was instrumental in establishing her brand’s identity and attracting a sophisticated clientele. Over the years, Charini has also showcased her collections at events such as London Fashion Week’s Esthetica, an ethical fashion platform, as well as in fashion shows in India and Germany.
A core element of Charini’s brand is her dedication to sustainable and ethical fashion. She actively supports Sri Lanka’s artisans by sourcing locally and integrating traditional crafts into her designs. Her collections often feature organic and recycled materials, setting a new standard for eco-friendly luxury in the region. Her “Temple Art Collection” is a prime example of her innovative approach, where she transformed inspirations from ancient temple art into modern fashion pieces, a process that involved months of research and interpretation.
In addition to her design work, Charini believes in giving back to society. She has spent over a decade lecturing at Sri Lankan universities, sharing her knowledge with budding designers and promoting a culture of sustainability in fashion. Her commitment to education reflects her gratitude for Sri Lanka’s free education system and her desire to inspire the next generation of designers.
Charini draws her inspiration from diverse sources, such as architecture, nature, and history. Known for her self-critical nature, she constantly evaluates and refines her brand, seeking ways to innovate while remaining true to her principles. Although she dreams of retailing her brand globally, Charini’s ultimate goal is to inspire others to pursue their passions and value the power of ethically produced fashion.
Today, Charini Suriyage stands as a symbol of Sri Lankan excellence in fashion, embodying the fusion of style, culture, and responsibility. Her journey from a small town in Bandarawela to the runways of the world illustrates her determination and vision, making her a role model for both her country and the international fashion community. Through her dedication to quality and ethics, Charini continues to push boundaries, paving the way for a more sustainable future in fashion.
𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞, 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐰𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥!
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