In the bustling world of fashion, where trends come and go, there are those who seek to preserve the rich heritage of their culture through their creations. Thilini Senaratharchchi, the founder of MAARKI, is one such individual, driven by a passion for design and a deep love for her Sri Lankan roots.
With over a decade of experience in the fashion industry, Thilini’s journey began as a fashion designer, working tirelessly in roles of design, product development, and marketing for leading industry corporates. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in design and specialization in fashion and textile design from the prestigious University of Moratuwa, she honed her skills and made her mark in the field.
Thilini’s creative prowess and dedication were further recognized when she became the first Sri Lankan finalist in the renowned Montana World of Wearable Art (WOW) award show in 2010, held in New Zealand. Her talent transcended borders as she garnered accolades both locally and internationally, particularly for her innovative packaging designs.
However, Thilini’s true calling beckoned her to embark on a new venture – one that would blend her expertise in fashion with her desire to foster creativity in young minds. Thus, Designberg, a design school for kids, was born, offering a platform for children to explore their artistic talents and nurture their creative thinking.
In 2019, Thilini realized her long-standing dream of establishing her fashion brand, MAARKI. Named after her three children, MAARKI embodies the essence of Sri Lankan tradition, offering a unique range of designer wear inspired by the island’s rich cultural heritage. What began as a modest endeavor has grown into a beloved brand, catering to both local and international markets, including Australia, USA, UK, and New Zealand.
MAARKI’s appeal lies in its ability to seamlessly blend traditional Sri Lankan elements with contemporary design aesthetics, resonating with Sri Lankans living abroad who yearn for a connection to their roots. The brand initially gained recognition for its New Year seasonal costumes but has since expanded its offerings to encompass a variety of products throughout the year.
Driven by a commitment to quality and creativity, MAARKI has evolved from an online store to establish its own boutique in Kadawatha, catering to customers who prefer the tactile experience of physical shopping. Each product is meticulously crafted with premium materials and packaged with care, reflecting Thilini’s dedication to delivering excellence in every aspect of the brand.
Looking ahead, the vision for MAARKI is ambitious yet heartfelt – to reach Sri Lankans worldwide and offer them a piece of their homeland through their clothing. By capturing the authentic spirit of Sri Lanka in their designs, MAARKI aims to evoke a sense of pride and nostalgia, uniting Sri Lankans across the globe in celebration of their cultural identity.
In a fast-paced world where trends fade and styles evolve, MAARKI stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of tradition, weaving a timeless narrative of heritage and craftsmanship through its exquisite creations. Thilini Senaratharchchi’s journey from fashion designer to founder is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a profound love for one’s roots. Through MAARKI, she invites the world to embrace the vibrant tapestry of Sri Lankan culture, one stitch at a time.
