Alumnus of St. Bridget’s Convent and Academy of Design, Rukshika Fernando is the mastermind behind “Rum Punch”: a collection of Resort Wear that take hues of the energy and vibrancy of the tropical climate.

“Since small days fashion design was a big deal for me. I have been drawing and designing since the day I could remember,” says Rukshi.

As the high temperatures and humid climates settle in, Rum Punch offers a personalized line of chic and sassy clothing that are sure to get those heads turnin’!

 

What is Rum Punch?

My brand “Rum Punch” is focused on Resort Wear which is “clothing worn while traveling and on vacation, especially in warm weather climates. Sometimes referred to as ‘cruise wear’. For women, this typically means light dresses, linen separates and swimsuits”.

“Rum Punch” is all about designing custom made outfits with a strong emphasis on swimwear, beachwear and complementary garments/accessories.

 

 

The first collection of my brand “Rum Punch” was inspired by the wildness of Africa – especially the tribal designs of the Masai Mara tribe. My resort wear showcases bright and bold hues that are similar in color too Masai Mara jewelry, motifs and prints.

This is a contemporary, yet classically feminine collection and includes pieces that are luxurious and tropical. The collection is a result of bonding techniques and sonic cut crafts that have been made using a revolutionary “sew free” technology for an ultra-smooth finish.

 

 

A little bit about the creator of the masterpieces?

I did my Higher National Diploma in fashion at AOD in 2007 and was selected by MAS Holdings to work as a designer for Victoria’s Secret. I then took a year’s break  in 2012 to do my BA in fashion at AOD, where I qualified with a 1^st class degree in 2013 and was selected as a finalist in the SLFAA -Sri Lanka Fashion and Apparel Award 2013 for Emerging Designer at the SLDF 2013.

 

What defines Rum Punch?

My clothing is defined by my personality – bright & colorful, fashionable & practical, fun & sexy!

 

 

What inspires you to create?

I’m inspired by current global trends, colours, ethnic designs and nature.

 

Are your designs for a range of waist sizes or created to fit the standard mannequin?

I don’t restrict myself with designs only for slim models… it’s for all sizes. I believe that it is important to work in partnership with my customers, where I first understand their requirements and then customize my designs to create their favorite and unique resort wear with my special touch.

 

 

“Rum Punch” at REVEAL 2013

I was extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to launch and showcase my brand at 2 fashion show during the 2013 Sri Lanka Design Festival – Reveal 2013 & SLFAA -Sri Lanka Fashion and Apparel Award 2013

 

What laid the stepping stones to your journey thus far?

My grandparents – both my grandparents (dad’s mum and mum’s mum) are artistes and I have seeing them stitching clothes all my life… so both of them have always inspired me to be who I am.

My family (dad, mum and sis) and fiancé Binara Seneviratne who have always supported me with what I want to be in life and never have discouraged me.

 

 

 

 

By Sapthika Jacob