Leading couturier Indi Yapa Abeywardena is set to take over the runway in style, bringing together a celebration of fashion, design, diversity, history, and culture. ‘Aarya by Indi’ is an upcoming Spring and Summer 2023 fashion show that will take place on the 18th of November 2022 at the Colombo Town Hall Building.
The collection was named Aarya after Indi’s niece, with the historical significance behind the word being a reference to goddesses Parvati and Durga, and translating to noble lady.
At the exclusive media announcement of Arya by Indi at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, Indi announced: “The show will be an amalgamation of storytelling, textiles, and history. The Aarya collection embodies a sense of heritage, and is heavily inspired by the ancient paintings and architecture of Sri Lanka. I would describe it as a translation of the past to the present.”
The Aarya collection is set to feature the hand-drawn prints, powerful statement pieces, inclusive outfits, and meticulously handcrafted textures that the brand Indi is known for. The collection has over 50 styles, ranging from bridal and ethnic wear to western wear like dresses, gowns, jumpsuits, blouses, and sarees. Focusing on sustainability, the collection consists of detachable pieces and silhouettes designed to be deconstructed and worn as separates, prolonging the lifespan of these garments.
As the designer, Indi is honored and excited to put together a fashion show of this grandeur through her brand House of Indi to showcase her couture collection single-handedly. The entire fashion show comprises Indi's designs alone – she has worked tirelessly to organize this event and promises to deliver through her designs.
Explaining her inspiration for the Aarya collection, Indi stated; “Fashion has witnessed a massive transition, from embracing cultures to empowering traditions. Inspiration is everywhere – in nature, architecture, people going about their lives, a piece of art, an intricately decorated home, and my travels across our country.”
The Aarya by Indi fashion show has also incorporated futuristic elements through the special performances by talented local artists. As an entrepreneur, Indi always strives to empower the younger generation, especially women, by supporting them with the aim of transforming them into stronger individuals. She uses her skills as an entrepreneur to advocate for higher causes through her passion for art, history, and social justice. In doing so, she redefined what being a designer could represent, inspiring a wave of young and emerging designers to use fashion as a means of sparkling cultural change.
Indi also emphasised the importance of putting Sri Lanka on the global map as a design destination and fashion hub to promote local artisans, craftsmen, and products, enabling them to attract international buyers.
Indi expressed her immense gratitude to everyone who has been and continues to be a pillar of support behind the success of her celebrating a decade in fashion.
