The much vaunted Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Sri Lanka is days away and this year too leading hair salon Kess will collaborate with the designers to create cutting edge hair and beauty looks to grace the runway. Vasantha de Silva the founder of Kess and his partner Prabath Gamage reveal the preparation and inspiration that goes on to deliver a stellar performance behind the scenes during the show.

Q Kess has been a go-to salon in Colombo for over 25 years. What has been the key to maintaining such a strong presence in the beauty industry over this time?
The key to Kess Salon's longevity and influence lies in our unwavering commitment to quality, consistency, and innovation. Over the years, we’ve built trust with our clients by offering personalized services, staying up-to-date with global beauty trends, and investing in continuous training for our team.

We also prioritize creating a welcoming environment where every client feels valued. Our ability to adapt to the evolving needs of the industry—whether through new techniques, products, or technologies—has ensured that we remain relevant and continue to grow. Ultimately, our passion for beauty and dedication to customer satisfaction has been the foundation of our lasting presence in Colombo’s beauty landscape.

Q How has Kess Salon evolved over the years to cater to the ever-changing trends in fashion and beauty? What keeps you ahead of the curve?
What keeps us ahead of the curve is our focus on personalization. We understand that beauty is not one-size-fits-all, and we take pride in offering tailored solutions that enhance the individuality of every client. Moreover, we leverage social media and data insights to anticipate emerging trends, ensuring our clients are always a step ahead in the beauty game. At Kess, it’s all about blending creativity with expertise to deliver not just services, but exceptional experiences.

Q This year, Kess is partnering with MBFW Sri Lanka once again. What inspires your team when creating innovative looks for such a high-profile event?
We draw inspiration from the dynamic energy of fashion itself – the fusion of global trends with Sri Lanka’s unique cultural essence. For MBFW, our focus is on creating looks that celebrate individuality, empower confidence, and push creative boundaries. Each style we develop reflects the artistry and innovation that defines our brand, ensuring that every model not only complements the designer’s vision but also stands out on the runway.

Q How do you approach collaborating with designers and design graduates for a show like MBFW? How do you ensure that the hair and makeup complement their unique visions?
We collaborate with the AOD creative team to study the portfolios of all designers and design graduates. A show like MBFW is all about synergy and communication. Our process begins by understanding each designer's collection concept, colour palette, mood, and key inspirations. This helps us align our hair and makeup vision with theirs. Our goal is to enhance, not overpower, their work. The right hair and makeup serve to complement the garments, ensuring the entire presentation feels cohesive and memorable on the runway.

Q MBFW Sri Lanka is a significant event with many challenges. How does Kess plan to manage the scale of the show, and what specific challenges are you preparing for?
Managing the scale of MBFW is no small feat—it’s a high-pressure environment with countless moving parts. However, with over 30 years of experience, the Kess team thrives under this kind of pressure. It’s the excitement and adrenaline of events like this that drive us. Our extensive experience allows us to anticipate and prepare for on-the-day challenges, ensuring we stay agile and responsive. For us, it’s not just about managing the pressure but embracing it, and that’s what sets us apart.

Q Creating looks for multiple designers can be demanding. How do you stay creative and ensure each look remains unique while working within tight timelines?
Staying creative under pressure requires a mix of preparation and spontaneity. I start by thoroughly understanding each designer’s vision and brand identity, which helps me tailor ideas that align with their style. To keep things fresh, I draw inspiration from a variety of sources—art, nature, culture, and even everyday moments. Mood boards and brainstorming sessions allow me to explore different directions quickly.

Q Kess is known for setting trends in Colombo’s beauty scene. What trends do you foresee making an impact during this year’s MBFW, and how do you plan to incorporate them into your work?
We are always attuned to global beauty movements and tailor them to resonate with local preferences. For this year’s MBFW, we anticipate a strong focus on natural, glowing skin, bold yet wearable makeup looks, and innovative hair textures that embrace individuality. Sustainable beauty is also becoming a defining trend, with eco-friendly products and techniques gaining prominence. We aim to inspire attendees by blending high-fashion aesthetics with everyday beauty solutions, ensuring Kess continues to set the standard for Colombo’s evolving beauty scene.

Q MBFW also highlights design graduates. How important is it for Kess to work with emerging talent, and what advice would you offer young creatives entering the industry?
At Kess, we believe that nurturing new talent is crucial for the future of the fashion industry. Working with emerging designers not only brings fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to our brand but also helps to create a supportive ecosystem where creativity can flourish. Young creatives have the potential to push boundaries and challenge conventions, which is essential for growth in fashion. For those entering the industry, my advice is to stay authentic and passionate about your vision. Embrace collaboration, seek mentorship, and be open to feedback. Build a strong network and never underestimate the power of perseverance. Remember, every experience, whether good or bad, is a stepping stone toward your success.

Q Every salon has its signature touch. What defines Kess Salon’s approach to hair and beauty, and how do you maintain that signature across such a variety of events?
At Kess, our approach to hair and beauty is defined by a commitment to personalized service and high-quality products. We believe that every client deserves an experience tailored to their unique style and needs, which is why we invest time in understanding their preferences during consultations.

To maintain our signature style across various events, we focus on our core values: creativity, excellence, and client satisfaction. Our team undergoes regular training to stay updated on the latest trends and techniques, ensuring that we consistently deliver exceptional results, regardless of the occasion. We also encourage open communication with our clients throughout the process, allowing us to adapt and refine our services to match their vision. This flexibility, combined with our dedication to quality, allows Kess Salon to shine at every event.

Q As a salon that has been an institution for decades, where do you see Kess heading in the future? Are there any new initiatives or expansions on the horizon?
As a salon that has proudly served our community for decades, we are excited to share some of our upcoming initiatives. One of the most thrilling developments is the launch of the Kess Academy, which will soon provide a platform for aspiring stylists to enhance their skills and creativity. Alongside this, we are thrilled to announce the Kess Masterclass, led by our ever-in-demand founder, Vasantha de Silva. His expertise and vision will undoubtedly inspire both new and seasoned professionals in the industry. These initiatives reflect our commitment to nurturing talent and staying at the forefront of beauty and wellness trends. We are continually looking to expand our offerings and innovate, ensuring that Kess remains a leader in the salon industry for years to come.

Pix courtesy - Kess