Meet Maneesha Perera...
“Hailing from an artistic family, I have always known that my calling lies within the creative industry,” expressed Maneesha Perera, the face behind the clothing label ‘Re'Ra’.
Maneesha enrolled with the International Academy of Design at the age of 18, which enabled her to explore fashion, interior design and graphics. “That’s when I became certain that fashion design was where my true interest lies.” Upon graduation in Sri Lanka, she enrolled herself at the Istituti Calicagy Milano, Mumbai to master fashion styling.
“Re'Ra being derived from my family name Perera was born under the pure purpose of creating my dream silhouettes. As a fashion student I was always fascinated with intricately detailed works of art created by the masters of the world of haute couture," she explained.
Describe your early days in fashion design as an occupation. Did it feel like it was a business?
I have always had an eye for unique colour combinations. Some might even call it eccentric. Armed with this skill set, I wanted to test the waters. I wanted to see if there is a demographic that my collection would appeal to. But before I knew it, word of mouth had spread and I had a client base.
So it did start as an art form, it ended up becoming my occupation. I guess it was meant to be. Hence, the launch of Re'Ra, my first footprint in the world of fashion.
"The whole of India is where I have derived my inspiration from" is what you mentioned. Tell us about this.
What I meant was that to create something unique in fashion, you cannot just look at fashion. I love all things Indian and I derive inspiration from many facets of that country; such as their ethnic diversity, rich culture, colorful festivals, food, languages, music, poetry and even from their thriving film industry.
As the Re'Ra brand owner and entrepreneur, what is the overall look you go for in your collection?
The pieces designed under Re’Ra will be for the modern contemporary woman of today. The overall look will be timeless elegance.
Name a Bollywood actress you adore, and why.
Undoubtedly, Sushmita Sen for her will to be independent and establish herself in a male dominant society. And of course, for her work in charity.
Your favourite street style icon?
Sonam Kapoor for her bold and daring fashion choices.
Three style tips to keep it chic and on point.
1. Less is more. Keep it simple.
2. Go easy on the make-up.
3. Don’t be a slave to brands and trends.
What’s next for your brand?
What’s next? Well, I will be launching the Re'Ra debut collection in November of 2015, just in time for the festive season. As an establishing designer my main priority is to focus on the future of Re’Ra and to sustain it as an independent designer brand.
Interviewed by Sandra de Zilva
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