“Fashion is the most powerful art there is. Its movement, design and architecture all in one. It shows the world who we are and who we’d like to be”- is a viral quote amongst social media these days and it encapsulates the vibrant essence of Fashion Design.
In a world that is constantly evolving, one thing remains powerful and ever-relevant, and that is fashion. Fashion Design has always been a global phenomenon- from serving as a form of self- expression, reflecting societal changes, generating employment and contributing to economic growth. Fashion Design is an important aspect that is most of the time unseen- yet indispensable.
Influenced by politics, economics, social movements, technology and environmental concerns, this industry contends to create and innovate at its core. As the world continues to change, the Fashion Design and Apparel industry faces the struggles of climate change and overconsumption. Therefore, Fashion Designers have a critical role in driving change.
Using of sustainable and eco-friendly textiles, having ethical production methods, and rethinking the lifecycle of the garments produced are some ways in which Fashion Designers are striving to create a difference to evoke change. Through this, it is clear that fashion is not just about what we wear- it is about how we live.
Fashion designers have the capability to transform fabrics into emotion, patterns into mysteries and silhouettes into statements. Every garment in a collection is made to tell a story and behind every collection is a designer with a vision.
This August that vision is being brought to life at the “Graduate Fashion Week 2025” organized by the Fashion Design and Product Development graduates under the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Moratuwa. This is set to be showcased at the University premises on the 11th and 12th of August and then at Cinnamon Life, Colombo on the 13th and 14th of August respectively.
This highly anticipated event showcases the innovative, talented and deeply personal collections of the graduate students. The showcased collections will highlight how design bridges the gap between creativity and industry as well. This exhibition is not only a platform for the young designers to unveil their talents but also an invitation to the public to witness the next new wave of extraordinary and visionary Fashion Designers from the University of Moratuwa.
With a wide varying set of unique and mind-blowing concepts that were made into stunning collections by our graduates, we are excited to present to the island what Fashion Design is to us all.
= Craftsmanship, culture and sustainability all in one collection by U. Maleema Sandalika and T. H. Samadhi Malsha De silva:
“The concept of Symbiosis, “the elegance of sustainable couture”, is reflected the revival of traditional textile craftsmanship through the use of sustainable materials, forming a bridge between the past and a greener future. The couture collection is for the brand Dior, season of Spring & Summer 25/26 Europe market, women’s evening wear.
Inspiration for this evening wear collection has been drawn from traditional Raksha masks, with a sense of royalty and elegance being embodied through exquisite craftsmanship. Cultural heritage is celebrated through the incorporation of traditional handloom weaving techniques, thereby promoting cultural sustainability. Environmental responsibility is emphasized through the use of recycled polyester yarns alongside biodegradable bamboo and cotton yarns, ensuring that sustainable fashion practices are upheld.”
= Presenting South Asian heritage with a twist of Punk we have Wasana Madhubhashini Wimal and Shenali Ruwanya Liyanage
“As the global luxury market continues its post-pandemic boom, a new generation of consumers is redefining what heritage means. Among them, affluent British of South Asian descent, navigating between tradition and modernity, are emerging as a powerful demographic.
“Heirloom” is a Spring/Summer 2026 Ready-To-Wear collection for Vivienne Westwood, reimagining South Asian heritage through a punk lens. The collection was inspired by four colonial-era clock towers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka – silent witnesses to a shared history and cultural resilience. It explores what it means to belong, to remember, and to rebel with grace.
Hand woven palmyrah panels and accessories, Kanchipuram “Pattu” silk, tartan, and laser-cut metal elements come together in six striking looks.
Each garment tells a story of time, movement, and heritage through prints and silhouettes inspired by architectural forms and art, bringing together the perfect balance of structure and flow. This is a tribute to our people -an heirloom for those who carry their history on their shoulders and wear their identity with pride.”
= A collection that is both mythical and aesthetic by Avishka Wickramasinghe and Sandali Punyaweera:
“This collection explores the rising global trend of coordinated couple dressing, blending darkly restorative elegance with holistic craftsmanship.
“Inspired by traditions that symbolize love and unity—now reimagined through modern celebrity and social media influence—the designs capture a spiritual, emotional connection between wearers.
Influenced by Zuhair Murad’s detail-rich, mythology-driven aesthetic, the collection features nocturnal colour palettes, metallic accents, and Phoenix bird–inspired surface detailing, drawn from the architecture and symbolism of ancient Phoenix Town, China.
Targeting affluent, Gen Y couples (aged 25–35) from the U.S. entertainment industry, the range fills a market gap for matching couple wear by introducing menswear to a previously women’s wear-only brand. Silhouettes feature Savile Row tailoring, fluid draping, and embellished textures, aligning with consumers’ desire for premium, expressive, and eye-catching occasional wear.
With the global occasional wear market steadily growing, this collection offers both emotional storytelling and strong commercial potential.”
= Athleisure, ballet and elegance summed up in one collection by Sanjeewa Rahubaddha and Nisalya Wanigasooriya:
“Feerie Fit is a ballet-inspired athleisure collection that beautifully balances the timeless elegance of classical ballet with innovative garment technology. Inspired by the enchanting Sleeping Beauty at the Bolshoi Theater, the collection reimagines ballet training wear by combining moisture-wicking, breathable mesh panels and four-way stretch fabrics to support unrestricted movement.
“Seamless bonding techniques reduce friction and enhance comfort, while strategically placed compression zones provide essential muscle support and improve circulation. Featuring convertible elements like detachable skirts and adjustable straps, Feerie Fit offers versatile pieces that transition effortlessly from studio to street.
“This collection harmonizes the delicate beauty of ballet with cutting-edge performance technology, creating functional yet feminine apparel that empowers dancers both on and off the studio.”
= A collection that flows with simplicity, practicality and sustainability by Sewminie Wijesinghe and Vidurangika Wijayarathane:
“The Ethereal Elegance collection explores a contemporary vision of femininity that combines simplicity, sophistication, and sustainability. Drawing on cultural shifts towards slow living and the handcrafted charm of cottagecore, the collection reflects a growing desire for authenticity and mindful consumption. Designed for UK working women aged 25–35, it offers practical yet refined garments that balance style and comfort, responding to the needs of busy lifestyles. Crafted with sustainable, lightweight fabrics such as cotton, linen, and viscose, the designs feature minimalist silhouettes, delicate embroidery, and natural dyes, celebrating artisanal details within a modern context. Presented through Whistles, a brand known for its timeless appeal, the collection speaks to women seeking elegance and ease in their everyday wardrobes, aligning with broader trends that favor intentional, sustainable fashion”
Through these collections it is clear that this is more than just a showcase, it is an opportunity to connect, observe and be inspired. It’s a space where fashion lovers, designers, industry professionals, creatives and curious minds can interact with this new set of emerging fashion designers and prepare to look into the future with ease and excitement. GFW’25 is here and we are ready to change the world- one garment at a time.
By – Nethu Lamahewa (2nd year Fashion Design and Product Development undergraduate, University of Moratuwa)
