- Couturier Indi Yapa’s spring-summer 2023 collection to be showcased on 18 November
By Venessa Anthony
Leading couturier Indi Yapa Abeywardena is all set to take over the runway in style, bringing together a celebration of fashion, design, diversity, history, and culture. “Aarya by Indi” is an upcoming spring and summer 2023 fashion show that will take place on 18 November.
At a recently held media conference at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, Abeywardena announced: “The show will be an amalgamation of storytelling, textiles, and history. The Aarya collection embodies a sense of heritage, and is heavily inspired by the ancient paintings and architecture of Sri Lanka. I would describe it as a translation of the past to the present.”
Speaking of the inspiration behind the name, Indi proudly shared that it was named after her niece, Aarya, the name of a person close to her heart. Aarya also has a significant historical backstory, with it being a reference to goddesses Parvati and Durga, and translating to “noble lady”.
The collection
The Aarya collection will feature the hand-drawn prints, powerful statement pieces, inclusive outfits, and meticulously handcrafted textures that the brand Indi is known for. Abeywardena explained that the collection has over 50 styles, ranging from bridal and ethnic wear to western wear like dresses, gowns, jumpsuits, blouses, and sarees.
“For this collection, I focused on sustainability; the collection consists of detachable pieces and silhouettes designed to be deconstructed and worn as separates, prolonging the lifespan of these garments,” Abeywardena said, informing the audience of what she plans on doing differently with this fashion show.
As the designer, Abeywardena noted, she is honoured and excited to put together a fashion show of this grandeur through her brand House of Indi to showcase her couture collection single-handedly.
“The entire fashion show comprises my designs alone – we worked tirelessly to organise this event and promise to deliver through the designs.”
Inspiration
Explaining her inspiration for the Aarya collection, Abeywardena stated: “Fashion has witnessed a massive transition, from embracing cultures to empowering traditions. Inspiration is everywhere – in nature, architecture, people going about their lives, a piece of art, an intricately decorated home, and my travels across our country.”
The “Aarya by Indi” fashion show has also incorporated futuristic elements through the special performances by talented local artists. As an entrepreneur, Indi always strives to empower the younger generation, especially women, by supporting them with the aim of transforming them into stronger individuals. With this show as well, she stated, she is using her skills as an entrepreneur to advocate for higher causes through her passion for art, history, and social justice. In doing so, redefining what being a designer could represent, inspiring a wave of young and emerging designers to use fashion as a means of sparkling cultural change.
Indi also emphasised the importance of putting Sri Lanka on the global map as a design destination and fashion hub to promote local artisans, craftsmen, and products, enabling them to attract international buyers. On an ending note, she expressed her immense gratitude to everyone who has been and continues to be a pillar of support behind the success of her celebrating a decade in fashion.
Partners
Christell Skin Clinic, a cosmetology clinic in Sri Lanka and Maldives, is the platinum sponsor of the event, while Chariot Bakery and Restaurant is on board as the official food partner. Cinnamon Grand Colombo and Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo have partnered as the official hospitality partner. Aroma Bliss Ceylon is the gold sponsor of the show and Sri Lankan Airlines is the proud official airline partner.
Makeup for the night will be done by a team of top certified professionals in the industry. Capello Salons are the official hair partner, Beyond Destiny is on board as the photography partner, Nierra Shoes is the footwear partner, and the official jewellery partner is Gitano Collection. Lè Floristè will be providing the florals, and last but not least, Haut Monde Event Management is the official event and PR partner for the event.
Photos Eshan Dasanayaka
