A chat with Dinesh...
Dinesh Chandrasena, internationally known fashion designer, works on numerous levels in the creative industry. Dinesh coordinates the Fashion Design Programme and lectures at Raffles Design Institute in Sri Lanka. Whilst being the creative force for the ‘Kuwaiti’ based ‘Red Banana’ label, Dinesh is also the Creative Director for the “Miss France” and “Miss China” events in Sri Lanka. 43 year old Dinesh, embodies contentment, and is a firm believer in a higher divinity. Family and an American Pitbull Terrier are a priority to Dinesh who lives in constant gratitude for the wonderful people in his life.
What type of woman did you have in mind when designing the line?
Generally speaking, I am always inspired by elegance, and I find the mix of "strong", and "elegant" to be a great combination in a woman. Nicole Kidman, Angelina Jolie, Audrey Tautou are a few that come to mind from the acting fraternity.
Your inspiration for designs?
My inspiration comes from numerous sources. The latest film, theatre, ballet production could offer a source of inspiration. The Ballet "La Bayadere" inspired me greatly, as it mixed the exotic east, with a wonderful musical score. The film "The Woman in Gold", with it's "human" factors, the lavish Klimt paintings together with 1930/40 costumes, was also wonderfully inspiring.
What are the three wardrobe essentials every women should own?
A chic simple "shift dress"(in neutral tones), a subtle low heel single tone shoe in immaculate condition, and a timeless bag that is not trendy.
If you could only wear one designer forever who who would it be?
That's easy - Giorgio Armani.
Name two style icons you admire - one living and one deceased.
Living - Queen Rania of Jordan, for her ability to combine the aesthetics of her own culture, with off the runway creations.
Deceased - Coco Chanel, for having revolutionized women's fashion, and completely re-inventing clothing of her time(s).
What was your last splurge purchase? Your last great find or steal?
Splurge - Rolex Oyster Perpetual watch, and Cartier "Rings of Happiness" paved diamond intertwining ring.
Great find - A wonderful vintage store off the Kings Road in London, and an awesome street food shop inside Ion Orchard, Singapore.
Steal - Makeup brushes from Sephora.
Three style tips to keep it classy?
1) Less is more - Cultivate "subtlety", You don't need everything and the kitchen sink to look great!
2) Be body realistic - Don't dress for the body you want, dress for the body you have!
3) Go easy on the perfume - If you can smell your own fragrance on yourself, you have overdone it!
What's next, your vision for the future Sri Lankan fashion industry?
Nurturing the wonderful talent we have in Sri Lanka. I lecture at the Raffles Design Institute, and am the Fashion Design Program coordinator with principal focus on corporate relationships / external activities. It is truly brilliant to see the talented designers we produce make their mark on the industry, and move towards globalizing Sri Lankan fashion.
Interviewed by Sandra De Zilva
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