Words: Tina Edward Gunawardhana
Emerging from the fashion pack with her colourful and distinctive designs, fashion designer Nithya Yamini Lamahewa is known for championing handloom and batik. Using her understanding of textiles she has married handloom and batik to creative stunning designs which are representative of Sri Lanka.
How did your journey in fashion start?
From my school days, I was an “out of the box” thinker. I was very much into creative pursuits and music when I was in school. After the A’ levels my parents encouraged me to study fashion designing because they saw the talent and potential in me. This led me to join AOD to study fashion designing. In my second year, I realised that textiles and craft are my strengths. So, I started to work with artisan communities in different parts of the country.. Through my designs I always connect the two ends. For example, high tech design knowledge with low tech craft, local craft with international trends, basic handloom or batik textile techniques with a modern silhouette. My design philosophy is a reflection of my values.
What attracted you to batik?
When I studied about Sri Lankan traditional textiles back in school, I saw a huge potential in the craft. When I started my brand there was a lack of modern batik handloom products in the market especially targeting young consumers and I felt this is where I could hone in on the market opportunities.
What would you say are the key things that make your brand sustainable?
As a fashion designer and a person, I believe it’s our responsibility to follow a path of sustainability. “Nithya” believes that fashion and style can reach beyond catwalk and wardrobe to reach social responsibility and help communities. As a brand, we are working progressively towards sustainability. We are trying our best to do things adhering to the principles of circularity as best we can. We ensure fair wages for artisans who work with us. When designing our collections we endeavour to maximize the use of materials, while ensuring good quality in production.
