Meet AGNAR on the buzz this week, Where Style Meets Self-Expression!

Born in Dubai, rooted in Sri Lanka, and designed for the world—AGNAR SL is all about bold minimalism, effortless style, and celebrating individuality! Founded by Ranga, the brand flips his name into something fresh, global, and oh-so-chic.

From statement sportswear to luxury homeware, AGNAR SL blends Sri Lankan craftsmanship with modern design. Whether you’re rocking their C’est la Vie tees or wrapping up in a ProudLanka Senator towel, every piece is made to let you #ExpressYourself.

With exciting new collections, artist collabs, and even a top-secret tech project in the works, AGNAR SL is just getting started. Watch this space—big things are coming, here I sat for a small chat 

1. What inspired the name “AGNAR SL” for your brand?

The name "AGNAR" is an anadrome of my name, Ranga. When launching the brand in Dubai, I wanted a name that not only reflected my identity but also resonated with the Middle Eastern market. AGNAR was unique, easy to pronounce, and had an international appeal. When I brought the brand to Sri Lanka, I added "SL" to honor my roots and symbolize my vision of redefining AGNAR as a proud Sri Lankan brand with global ambitions.

2. How do you define your brand’s unique style and approach to fashion?
AGNAR SL is all about celebrating individuality. Our philosophy focuses on creating designs that let the wearer shine, offering pieces that are timeless, minimalist, and versatile. While some of our sportswear currently features bold logos, this is part of our journey. These designs cater to customers who appreciate statement pieces, while we continue to evolve toward a more understated aesthetic that aligns with our long-term vision. At AGNAR SL, fashion is about empowering individuals to express themselves authentically, blending modern style with personal meaning.  

3. What was the initial idea behind creating AGNAR SL, and how has it evolved?
The brand began in Dubai, where the focus was on personalized, made-to-order clothing. It was about crafting pieces that reflected each client’s unique style. When I moved to Sri Lanka, I adapted the concept to fit the local market by creating ready-to-wear collections while staying true to our commitment to quality and individuality. A core principle that remains unchanged is maximizing the use of locally sourced materials and talents. Over the years, AGNAR SL has expanded to include homeware, bath and body products, and even the ProudLanka Senator Series luxury towels. Our evolution reflects our dedication to inclusivity, sustainability, and celebrating Sri Lankan craftsmanship.

4. As the owner of AGNAR SL, how do you balance creativity with business demands?
Balancing creativity with business is about staying connected to people. I regularly meet customers at pop-up shops, which helps me understand their evolving needs and preferences. This interaction fuels my creativity and guides business decisions. For instance, some of our product lines, like oversized tees, were inspired by conversations with customers. I also rely on planning and teamwork to ensure creative ideas align with practical goals. At the end of the day, AGNAR SL is about creating products that resonate deeply with people while maintaining a sustainable and scalable business.

5. What does the hashtag #expressyourself mean to your brand’s philosophy?
#ExpressYourself embodies the belief that fashion should empower people to share who they truly are. In Sri Lanka, many are humble and reserved, and this hashtag is an invitation to step out of that comfort zone. It’s about celebrating individuality and telling the world your story. Through our designs, we aim to give our customers the confidence to embrace and showcase their unique selves.

6. How do you select materials and designs for your apparel and accessories?
We take pride in sourcing materials locally to support Sri Lankan small businesses. For example, the ProudLanka Senator Series luxury towels represent the peak of locally crafted excellence. Our design process is highly personal—I often visit vendors in person, discuss our vision, and ensure the materials meet our quality standards. By blending Sri Lankan craftsmanship with global design trends, we create products that are both rooted in local culture and appealing to a diverse audience.

7. Can you share details about your involvement in events like the “International Christmas Charity Bazaar”?
For the past three years, my partner and I have actively supported the French Women’s Association in Sri Lanka by participating in the International Christmas Charity Bazaar. This event is close to our hearts—it’s a platform where we can give back to the community while showcasing our products. Over the years, we’ve set donation records and built strong connections with the French community, leading to exciting opportunities like featuring our C’est la Vie T-shirt collection and ProudLanka towels in boutique hotels such as La Maison de Colombo.

8. What has been the most rewarding feedback you’ve received from your customers?
The most rewarding feedback isn’t just hearing that our products make customers feel confident and comfortable—it’s seeing them come back. Repeat purchases, especially when customers buy our products as gifts for friends, are the ultimate compliment. These loyal customers are our true brand ambassadors, and their trust inspires us to keep growing and innovating.

9. How do you plan to expand the reach of AGNAR SL in the future?
Our future is focused on growth, innovation, and inclusivity. We’re excited to expand our product range with upcoming launches, like a women’s sports collection that combines comfort, functionality, and elegance. Collaborating with local artists and designers is also a priority to showcase Sri Lanka’s incredible creative diversity. Through ProudLanka, we aim to establish Sri Lankan luxury products, like the Senator Series towels, as global benchmarks of quality. Beyond these efforts, we’re working on an exciting IT project designed to empower Sri Lankan creators, offering them new opportunities to shine on a larger stage. While we can’t reveal the full details just yet, this initiative will be a game-changer for Sri Lanka’s creative industry, reflecting our commitment to community and innovation.  

10. What advice would you give to aspiring designers looking to launch their own brand?
My advice is to stay true to your vision while remaining open to change and growth. Start small and focus on delivering quality over quantity. Build a strong identity that resonates with your audience, and don’t be afraid to experiment while staying aligned with your core values.

When something gains traction, make it a focal point and push its boundaries. Capitalize on what works, and let it drive your brand forward. Collaborate with others, embrace networking opportunities, and never stop learning. Finally, patience and persistence are key—success doesn’t happen overnight, but with dedication, your passion for design can turn into a thriving brand.