31 August 2024 12:05 am Views - 119
A Journey of Creativity Rooted in Sustainability
Shimla Eliyas’s passion for fashion began in her childhood, where she would repurpose old jeans into bags and accessories. This early exposure to upcycling sparked a lifelong interest in creating beauty from discarded materials, setting the foundation for her distinctive approach to fashion. This passion evolved into her brand, ‘Essence by Shimla Eliyas’, which is celebrated for its meticulous attention to detail, handmade embellishments, and use of sustainable fabrics.
The debut collection of ‘Essence by Shimla Eliyas’ made a powerful entrance into the fashion scene, featuring intricate and delicate designs that captivated fashion enthusiasts. The collection's unique blend of craftsmanship and sustainability quickly garnered attention, securing a place in one of Sri Lanka's premier designer stores. This initial success marked the beginning of Shimla's rise in the fashion world and paved the way for subsequent capsule collections. Each collection reflected her dedication to creating fashion that is both beautiful and environmentally responsible.
Expanding Across Sri Lanka and Beyond
As the brand grew, ‘Essence by Shimla Eliyas’ expanded its presence across Sri Lanka. It became a sought-after name in leading retail locations such as Tribe at One Galle Face and the PR Concept Store, where a limited-edition resort collection was launched. This expansion was a testament to the brand’s commitment to slow fashion; a philosophy that emphasizes quality over quantity, ethical production methods, and reduced environmental impact.
Shimla’s approach to fashion extends beyond just selecting sustainable fabrics; it involves a holistic view of the entire design and production process to ensure minimal waste and maximum ethical standards. This commitment to sustainability has resonated with a growing number of conscious consumers who seek fashion that aligns with their values.
In 2020, Shimla expanded her vision internationally by earning a Master’s degree in Fashion Design from Kingston University in the UK. This academic pursuit was complemented by valuable experience gained through internships at prestigious fashion houses like Richard Quinn and Roksanda. These experiences allowed Shimla to refine her design skills and broaden her perspective on sustainable fashion. Her exceptional graduate collection, which earned her distinction, showcased her ability to marry artistic creativity with sustainable practices and opened doors to several industry collaborations.
In addition to her design work, Shimla is committed to fostering the next generation of fashion talent. She is currently involved in an intensive Graduate Teaching program at the London College of Contemporary Art, where she imparts her knowledge and passion for sustainable fashion to aspiring designers. This role underscores her dedication to cultivating a fashion industry that values both creativity and ethical practices.
Looking Forward to the Future
The fashion community eagerly anticipates the launch of Shimla Eliyas’s upcoming collection. Her designs are not just a showcase of her creative talent but also a reflection of her commitment to sustainability. Each collection she produces is a statement, a fusion of art and environmental consciousness that challenges traditional fashion norms.
Shimla Eliyas continues to demonstrate the powerful synergy between creativity and sustainability, pushing the boundaries of what fashion can be. With each new collection, she reaffirms her dedication to creating fashion that is not only beautiful but also responsible. As the fashion world awaits the release of her latest collection, all eyes are on Shimla to see how she will continue to innovate and inspire, setting new standards for an ever-evolving industry.