- Asanka de Mel’s style tips for LOVI
By Venessa Anthony
LOVI Ceylon is all about embracing our traditional values as Sri Lankans. LOVI aims to highlight the wealth and beauty of our motherland and shows people that they have so much more to live for, spreading a beautiful message of hope. That has always been LOVI Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Asanka de Mel’s vision for the brand.
As he put it: “We have a rich history and a long cultural identity; we had one of the longest monarchies in the history of civilisation, but the elements of traditional clothing have not kept up with the times to provide contemporary style. It’s not as though people don’t like to wear sarongs; it’s just that what already exists is old and has no innovation. LOVI adds creativity and functionality to our national dress to compliment today’s lifestyle.”
The Morning Brunch reached out to de Mel for some tips on how one can style the luxurious sarong in a modern, fun way.
Marilyn Monroe style
First, place the sarong at the right hip with the pocket in a fixed position. As a tribute to Monroe, remember to always keep your favourite red lipstick in that pocket!
Once the sarong is in place, bring the end that’s hanging from the left back corner towards the front, with enough leg spacing to be comfortable – Monroe was all about that walk, after all. Drape it from the front with a small, narrow pleat, and tie a knot with the cord in the middle – and you’re done!
Grace Kelly style
Nothing beats a minimal look. This particular look requires minimum work to perfect as well. First, place the pocket at a half hands-length towards your right. Then pull back the long end of the sarong, so the front is sleek-cut. Finally, place the finishing end on the back right, and tie it with the ends lining with the cord in front. It’s as simple as that.
Audrey Hepburn style
The first thing you should remember when attempting this style is to watch out for those curves, while placing the right side pocket to the right thigh. Place the sarong lining slightly above the waist area to keep the length sassy – with this look, it’s all about the length! Once that’s out of the way, bring it from the left side towards the back and do a simple single drape to finish off with cord knot on front.
