A chat with Duleeka Rathnayake, the face behind Redpierrot... 

Redpierrot is the brainchild of artist cum nature lover Duleeka Ratnayake who is a qualified designer having graduated from the University of Moratuwa’s School of Design. In 2011, her artistic passions got the best of her when she decided to embark on her own to design a range of exquisite batik sarees. Her foray led her to experiment on both silks and cottons.

Since then, Duleeka has expanded her creative outreach exponentially and today produces beautiful and original pieces of designer batiks as well as a nature inspired range of vibrant hand-looms.

Batiks are highly trending in Sri Lanka. As a fashion designer what is your inspiration for your creative designs?

I grew up loving nature and her colour palette has been part of my inspiration. My work is also inspired by the wonderful traditions that are representative of the culturally and historically rich Kandyan era. Combining rich cultural dimensions with an equally diverse array of colours from nature is a challenge which I enjoy very much.

What is your specialty when it comes to your glam creations? Who is the clientele you cater to?

I design clothes for modern women who appreciate comfort and style. My designs transcend traditional boundaries. However, my designs are exclusive and created using eco-friendly and sustainable material. I also like to design my clothes based on themes from nature. Women of all ages come to my boutique for custom designed sarees and other garments and it shows that people appreciate what I am doing.

Your favourite Bollywood superstar and why?

Of course, Priyanka Chopra. She has her own unique style that combines summery chic with absolute hotness. She also has an incredible figure and isn’t shy to show it off.

Who is the fashion icon/celebrity you look up to for inspiration when you design your batiks?

I am inspired by late British designer Alexander McQueen who had a unique sense of style. As a person, I am inspired by the endless bounties that nature offers.

What similarities do you see between Indian and Sri Lankan sarees in terms of culture, style and fashion? As a batik designer and as one of the upcoming designers in Sri Lanka, tell us your perspective?

Indian and Sri Lankan sarees shares more than just six yards between them. They represent two countries that have similar cultures and traditions and also very unique design elements. The saree is evolving in both countries and I see more and more people adopting it and wearing it. As a designer, I have long road ahead. I want to expand my work and explore sustainable and environmentally friendly design techniques and innovative ways of doing things. These days, I am experimenting with new techniques for different kinds of material.

What can you predict for the Sri Lankan fashion enthusiasts regarding future trends?

Fashion is an evolving art and the fashion conscious will continue evolve with it. Women in Sri Lanka have a heightened sense of fashion nowadays and opt for designer wear. They will steer more towards softer colours and pastel shades. Also the emphasis will be on lighter/ flowy cotton and silk materials rather than dark heavy fabrics.

Redpierrot is located at 17/4A, Stratford Avenue, Gandhara Street, Kirulapone, Colombo 6.

By Sandra De Zilva