Michael Wijesuriya: celebrating 25 years in style

Michael Wijesuriya is an unconventional designer whose creations are elegant, aesthetic and feminine. He fell into the world of design almost by chance, recalled to Sri Lanka, while studying for a degree in Business in the US, on account of his father’s health it was suggested he work as a procurement officer in the family garment business but Michael declined the offer saying he’d rather become more involved in the design side of things. His family and friends were supportive and so the two decade long career of a local design pioneer was born. The Sunday Observer caught up with Michael earlier this week to hear his thoughts on the local fashion scene.

Q: What material do you prefer to work in?

A: I prefer traditional fabrics such as Beeralu lace and handloom, ideally with simple silhouettes and styles. I like to focus on nature and the natural.

Q: What do you consider the main influences on contemporary Sri Lankan fashion?

Colonial rule has had a great impact on “fashion” in Sri Lanka. Our base is still in western fashion, and western designs hold a very important place amongst our men and women.

A big portion of the women in this country opt to wearing dresses still as there is so much that the British left in the form of dress code. Men and women still opt for Western looks even in in wedding clothing.

Of course India has also influenced the fashion industry. Indian fashion, the saree, the lengha, and the choli not excluding the salwar and the churitha are all popular amongst Sri Lankans. I think most of our fashion is influenced by the western world and India.

On bridal fashion…

Bridal trends do change but for the most part fashion is not necessarily the main thing in bridal dressing because it is timeless and it has to be something that suits the bride.

Q:What is most satisfying about the career you have chosen?

A:My standards are extremely high. If I am satisfied with the job performed that is what matters. In turn I know that the client is satisfied.

On marketing or his penchant for not marketing..

My work speaks for itself, that’s how my clients find me.

Q:What do you think of the huge number of salons and fashion stores popping up all over the country?

A:There are so many wannabe designers and make-up artists. It is not passion that drives them to it but just some sort of job, copying and cribbing, not many have individual ideas.

After so many years in the industry what are your plans going forward?

I’m planning a celebration of 25 years in the industry, it is a milestone in my life, and I intend to give the fashion world something to look forward to.”