Top 5 Famous Fashion Designer In Sri Lanka 2025

A fashion designer in Sri Lanka is a professional who creates clothing, accessories, and apparel that reflect Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, modern trends, and unique textile traditions. Sri Lankan fashion designers blend traditional elements like batik, handloom, and embroidery with contemporary styles, making the country a rising hub for fashion innovation.

Role of a Fashion Designer in Sri Lanka

1. Creating Unique Designs – Fashion designers develop collections catering to different markets, including traditional wear, luxury fashion, and sustainable apparel.
2. Incorporating Sri Lankan Textiles – Many designers use handloom fabrics, batik prints, and natural dyes, preserving the country’s rich textile heritage.
3. Promoting Ethical & Sustainable Fashion – Sri Lankan designers focus on eco-friendly fashion, supporting local artisans and using organic materials.
4. Showcasing at Fashion Events – Top designers present their collections at events like Colombo Fashion Week, gaining recognition in global markets.

Famous Fashion Designers in Sri Lanka

• Sonali Dharmawardena – Known for modern batik fashion.
• Buddhi Batiks (Darshi Keerthisena) – A pioneer in contemporary batik designs.
• Yohani Gajadeera – Specializes in avant-garde fashion.
• Michael Wijesuriya – Famous for high-end couture and bridal wear.
• Kamil Hewavitharana – A top name in luxury fashion and evening wear.

Where to Find Sri Lankan Fashion Designers?

• Boutiques & Showrooms – Many designers have stores in Colombo, Galle, and Kandy.
• Fashion Events & Exhibitions – Shows like Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Sri Lanka showcase emerging and established designers.
• Online Platforms – Websites like The Design Collective feature collections from various Sri Lankan designers.

Sri Lankan fashion designers are redefining style by combining heritage textiles with modern trends, making the industry more diverse and globally recognized.

KT Brown by Kanchana

Minimalist & Contemporary Fashion

Kanchana Thalpawila, the creative mind behind KT Brown, is known for her modern yet timeless designs that incorporate Sri Lanka’s handwoven fabrics and natural textures.

✅ Signature Style:

• Relaxed, minimalist silhouettes with a focus on comfort.
• Earthy tones and handloom textiles.
• Elegant casual and semi-formal wear.

✅ Sustainability Focus:

• Works with local weavers to preserve Sri Lanka’s handloom industry.
• Emphasizes slow fashion with high-quality craftsmanship.

Where to Buy: Available at selected designer boutiques and online platforms.

Kasun by Kasun Gunawardena

Avant-Garde & High-Fashion

Kasun Gunawardena is a bold and experimental designer known for his dramatic and edgy approach to fashion. His brand, Kasun, challenges traditional styles with futuristic and artistic elements.

✅ Signature Style:

• Structured designs with dramatic cuts.
• Dark, moody tones with metallic and textured fabrics.
• Experimental, gender-fluid fashion.

✅ Global Appeal:

• Recognized in international fashion circles.
• Frequently showcased at Colombo Fashion Week (CFW).

Where to Buy: Exclusive collections available through high-end fashion boutiques.

Amilani Perera

Luxury & Ethical Fashion

Amilani Perera is one of Sri Lanka’s leading luxury fashion designers, known for her sophisticated and feminine designs. She also advocates ethical fashion, supporting local artisans and communities.

✅ Signature Style:

• Elegant evening wear with delicate detailing.
• Hand embroidery and soft, flowing fabrics.
• Strong emphasis on empowering women through fashion.

✅ Sustainability Focus:

• Works with local artisans and survivors of abuse to create meaningful fashion.
• Uses natural and eco-friendly fabrics.

Where to Buy: Available at luxury fashion stores and designer showcases.

Maus by Annika Fernando

Effortless & Modern Ready-to-Wear

Annika Fernando’s brand, Maus is a favourite among fashion-forward Sri Lankans looking for chic, everyday wear. The designs are minimalist, comfortable, and stylish, perfect for a modern wardrobe.

✅ Signature Style:

• Relaxed, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton.
• Neutral, earthy colour palettes with timeless cuts.
• Versatile outfits are suitable for day-to-night transitions.

✅ Where to Buy:

• Available at Paradise Road and online stores.
• A staple in Colombo’s boutique fashion scene.

Buddhi Batiks by Darshi Keerthisena

Modern Batik & Sustainable Fashion

Darshi Keerthisena is a pioneer in reviving Sri Lanka’s batik industry with a modern touch. Her brand, Buddhi Batiks, is known for high-fashion batik pieces that celebrate Sri Lankan heritage.

✅ Signature Style:

• Handcrafted batik designs in contemporary silhouettes.
• Bright colors, intricate patterns, and flowy drapes.
• Fusion of traditional batik with modern styling.

✅ Sustainability & Ethical Fashion:

• Uses organic fabrics and non-toxic dyes.
• Supports local batik artisans and rural communities.

Where to Buy:

• Available at Buddhi Batiks stores in Colombo and online.
• Frequently showcased at Colombo Fashion Week.

The Future of Sri Lankan Fashion

These designers are transforming Sri Lanka’s fashion scene, making it more sustainable, globally relevant, and deeply rooted in tradition. Whether it’s luxury couture, minimalist fashion, or sustainable batik, Sri Lanka’s fashion industry thrives with innovation and creativity.

Would you like recommendations on the best Sri Lankan fashion brands for a specific style?