OLU SWIM WEEK 2021 - The Resortwear Roundup

The ballroom of the Shangri La Colombo was transformed with plants and foliage to create a minimalistic runway as designers Aslam Hussein,  Dinushi Pamunuwa, Karma Collection and Charini Suriyage presented their collections on Day One. Known for his couture looks, it was a herculean task for Aslam Hussein to rein in his oeuvre and stick to creating resortwear  and not red carpet looks. In some instances he has used upholstery fabrics which, apart from the dramatic print design, would have helped him create structure to his garments. Sticking to what she knows best, designer Dinushi Pamunuwa presented a collection in batik.  Her fabric surface designs was checks in every shape and form. A bit staid, this collection   would have benefitted with a touch of oomph. Newcomers to fashion week, the Karma Collection, created  by Tivon and Seema was a riot of colour. Inspired by Frida Kahlo and Iris Arpfels  this collection was an absolute explosion of vibrant hues. The prints were fantastic and perfectly suited for an exotic holiday in the tropics. Closing the show was designer Charini Suriyage who presented close to 40 outfits in a variety of  colours and printed fabrics, some in her signature drapes.

pix by Manoj Rathnayake, Pradeep Dilrukshana, Nisal Baduge, Waruna Wanniarachchi, Nimalsiri Edirisinghe