Buzz!!!! With Danu - Anushika Perera 

I’m happy that Buzz with Danu can give an introduction to upcoming talent, and today I feature Anushika an old pupil of Ladies’ College. She completed her degree at the University of Moratuwa, Department of Integrated Design. Currently Anushika is in her final year specializing Fashion and Lifestyle Design. She’s a also now the proud owner of the brand MOJO. 

Anushika loves to follow the street styles, and bohemian, chic and grunge styles. Her debut collection Metamorphosis was unveiled at the Colombo Fashion Week. Having the opportunity to showcase at Colombo Fashion Week was one of her dreams come true. But it also became her big place for recognition for great work as Anushika won the title of Best Emerging Designer. She is also the first student from University of Moratuwa to win this award. 

Today she talks about her brand and life on Buzz with Danu #SupportingTalent. 

Full Name - Anushika Perera 

Favourite Colour - Black and earthy colours 

Pets - One very naughty dog 

Favourite Cartoon - Garfield 

Why did you decide to become a fashion designer? 

It basically surrounded me. I’m from a background that art and design was lived for. My grandmother and grandaunts were all creative people. My mother is a talented seamstress as well. Since I was little I was into art and design. Fashion inspires me. 

What is your favourite part about being a fashion designer? 

It's so wonderful to be in a process as such. It is really interesting how a little idea can go a long way. I savour the process and seeing the end result. And there’s nothing more satisfying like knowing your clothes are being worn by a pretty lady. 

What were your inspirations for your brand? How long did you work on the name? 

MOJO was inspired from Facebook and Instagram! It’s true that pictures speak a thousand words. The way some dressed, behaved were what motivated me to build my brand philosophy of being bold and daring and always standing out. It is for the sophisticated and adventurous woman. I worked on the name for several months. 

Photograph by Sagara Lakmal De Mel 

What does it mean? 

The magic in you. 

What are your thoughts on eco fashion? 

I think it’s necessary in today’s world. We can’t harm the place we are from. It is needed for a sustainable future. 

Who have been your biggest strengths? 

My mother. She is my superwoman and has been through all with me. And Charitha. He is everything. 

What plans for the future? 

I first need to finish my degree and I’ll be fully focusing on my brand afterwards. I do retail at the moment at PR Concept Store with Annika Fernando. She and the CFW team really help me to do the necessary. MOJO is now a registered brand under my name and I hope to expand my brand a little further. In a few years I want to open my own store. 

How was it to be a part of CFW? And tell me about the award you won. 

It was AMAZING! It was always in my dreams to take part for Colombo Fashion Week. I loved the rush and the excitement. It feels great to be a part of that family. And now looking back, it’s unbelievable. The award was the cherry on top. I was selected as the Best Emerging Designer out of 10 other designers. I still remember that call! I couldn’t speak. 

Photograph courtesy Life Online 

What's the biggest challenge you face as a designer? 

Survival in Sri Lanka is a little hard as yet because the country has a long journey ahead when speaking about fashion. So being new to the industry really challenges me. 

How is to be a student at the University of Moratuwa? And what was their feedback when you were chosen to show at CFW? 

I was selected to University of Moratuwa soon after schooling at Ladies’ College. It has been my second home for the past 4 years. I am a result of the Department of Integrated Design and it feels great to make proud of them. I am what I am today because of my two schools. My lecturers were very happy for my achievement. It was with them I initially started my project with. Their comments have helped me a lot on my journey. 

Photograph by Jovan De Mello Photography 

Who has been your role model in the fashion industry? 

The list is long but if I had to name one it's Issey Miyaki. 

What made you approach #SupportingTalent on Buzz with Danu? 

I have followed Buzz with Danu for a long time now. I really like the excitement around it and I look forward to read about another interesting individual. #SupportingTalent is a great way to help talent and I find it amazing that you stand out for individuals like that. 

Would you ever start working on a menswear line? 

It will be sometime till I go down that road but yes, that’s the idea. 

What's your fashion statement? 

Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, the streets and fashion has got to do with ideas, the way we live and what is happening around us - Coco Chanel