Breaking Barriers: Women leaders shaping the future of fashion

Fashion is a woman’s world. It’s easy to believe this, isn’t it? After all, the fashion weeks and runway shows all cater primarily to women’s fashion. But when you take a quick peek at the history of the industry, you’ll notice right away that some of the biggest luxury houses in history were founded by men. It was women like Coco Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli who started bringing about a remarkable change in the industry, inspiring the next generation of women entrepreneurs. 

Over the past century, the landscape of the fashion industry has undergone a significant transformation, particularly with the increasing financial independence of women and their emergence as entrepreneurs. This evolution hasn’t been without its challenges, as many female leaders have had to navigate obstacles and adversity to carve out their path. Despite societal expectations, they have shattered gender norms by demonstrating that women can excel not only as caregivers but also as successful business owners. Despite limited support from peers, friends, and even family, these women have faced fierce competition in the fashion industry and come out on top. Their resilience and determination have been the driving force behind their efforts to bring about radical changes, championing sustainability and inclusivity as core values within the industry.  

In celebration of International Women’s Day, we look at some of The Design Collective Store’s brands that are led by women. 

Ammiro 

Founded by Lekha and Senuri Perera, a dynamic mother-daughter duo, Ammiro is a ready-to-wear womenswear brand that is a tribute to timeless elegance and premium quality. With Letha’s rich experience in the garment industry and Senuri’s expertise in fashion marketing, they blend two generations of creativity to craft pieces that celebrate femininity and style. Their ‘Ode To Her’ collection pays homage to maternal figures, offering functional yet sophisticated designs for the modern woman’s wardrobe. 

Leekoh

It’s more than a brand, it’s a vision to redefine designer wear with artistry and exclusivity. Founded by designer Achala Leekoh, the namesake brand aims to cater to the discerning modern woman who seeks personalized designs of impeccable quality. She was inspired by the art nouveau movement and Antoni Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia, using the intricate geometrical details and motifs to lead the way for her designs. With a commitment to sustainability and ethical fashion, Leekoh’s collections boast unique prints and silhouettes, offering a perfect balance of glamor and consciousness. 

Amilani Perera 

This eponymous brand launched by Amilani Perera epitomizes luxury chic aesthetics infused with Sri Lankan motifs and a commitment to wildlife protection. A graduate of LaSalle College of Arts in Singapore, the designer blends cruelty-free methods and premium vegan materials to create stunning pieces showcased on prestigious international platforms. 

Sajini Hulugalle 

The brainchild of its namesake founder, Sajini Hulugalle is a celebration of femininity and empowerment in the form of garments. With a focus on creating comfortable yet stylish pieces for every woman, Sajini’s brand embraces curves and celebrates all occasions. From postpartum-friendly designs to locally made creations, the brand aims to empower women while supporting women-run businesses, embodying beauty, strength, and inclusivity. 

Mint Ceylon 

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to ethical sourcing, Mint Ceylon is the brainchild of three sisters dedicated to empowering local communities. Through upcycling and fair trade practices, their eclectic brand offers unique products while minimizing waste. With a vision to create sustainable job opportunities, Mint Ceylon embodies the essence of community empowerment and environmental responsibility.

Kama by Raji

Inspired by Sri Lankan heritage and international vintage, Kama by Raji brings to life exquisite gemstone jewelry sourced and crafted with utmost care. Founder Raji’s passion for wearable art shines through in each piece, meticulously designed and set with gemstones mined sustainably in Sri Lanka. Through her brand, Raji shares the story of her beautiful island nation, inviting wearers to invest in not just jewelry but also a rich cultural narrative.

Stoned

Stoned is more than a jewelry brand; it’s a lifestyle that celebrates individuality and the pursuit of self-expression. Drawing inspiration from the ocean’s vastness, Stoned crafts timeless pieces using precious metals and natural gemstones. With a focus on durability and longevity, their jewels are designed to accompany wearers on every journey, reflecting their bold spirit and zest for life.