Sri Lanka’s Sari and Fashion Narrative: Insights from the Podcast
In these episodes of Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting Pot, I have delved into the vibrant world of sustainable fashion in Sri Lanka, spotlighting pioneers who are intertwining tradition with innovation. Designing and building Kalukanda House was a dream design project. I have a passion for beautiful, different products from around the world and respecting authenticity and provenance when I buy is important to me. Travel inspires international designers. So while high streets homogenise, looking for “authentic” has brought creative entrepreneurs into sharp focus for me.
The proud Sri Lankan history of exquisite craft without waste is long. In the world of fashion, garment manufacture by big brands like Abercrombie and Fitch, Gap and Victoria’s Secrets (amongst many others) has been on these shores for a few decades. Lower manufacturing prices and good working conditions in many factories attracted international brands. Sadly we’ve seen a rise in global consumer consumption and waste piling, but I am discovering pioneering female fashion entrepreneurs who are fighting this tide with ingenuity and creative flair. Meet Selyna, Lonali and Mehala – an education in craft, style and ethical buying in the modern age.
Handloom Heritage: Selyn Textiles
Selyna Peiris, Director of Selyn – Sri Lanka’s only fair-trade guaranteed handloom company – shares how empowering rural women through ethical employment has always been central to their mission. With an eye on global relevance, Selyn is not only preserving traditional craft but innovating it for the future. It’s a powerful model of fashion that respects both people and the planet. Series 2, Episode 5 here
Circular Fashion & Urban Cool: House of Lonali
Enter Lonali Rodrigo, founder of House of Lonali, a label that transforms fashion waste into urban chic. Using upcycled textiles and pre-consumer waste, Lonali champions zero-waste production and creative reuse. Her mission? To redefine fashion consumption through design that’s both stylish and sustainable. Her work proves that circularity is not a trend—it’s the future. Series 2, Episode 6 here
Reimagining the Sari: The Friday Sari Project
Mehala Ford, a London-based fashion publicist and founder of The Friday Sari Project, shares how she’s reintroducing the sari to modern wardrobes. By curating beautiful pieces and teaching contemporary draping styles, Mehala is helping South Asians reconnect with their heritage in fresh, empowering ways. The sari, under her vision, becomes a versatile garment of identity, not just tradition. Series 1, Episode 2 here
A Conscious Fashion Future
From village looms to urban ateliers, Sri Lanka’s fashion trailblazers are crafting a bold narrative—one that fuses culture, creativity, and sustainability. These are not just brands; they’re movements. And their message is clear: fashion can be beautiful, ethical, and proudly local. These episodes underscore a broader movement within Sri Lanka’s fashion scene—one that honors traditional crafts while embracing modern design and ethical practices. By focusing on sustainability, community engagement, and cultural preservation, Sri Lanka is weaving a new narrative in the global fashion industry.
Tune in to Series 1 Episode 2 and Series 2, Episodes 5 & 6 of Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting Pot to hear these inspiring voices directly on Apple, Spotify or wherever you tune into your podcasts.
