The recent collaboration between the Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering and the Industrial Development Board (IDB) has opened up an exciting opportunity for a graduate collection showcase at the Ceylon Heritage Festival, which made its grand debut on September 27, 2023, at the Galle Face Hotel in Colombo. This highly anticipated event was organized by the Rachel Raj Foundation in partnership with the Ministry of Industries. The fashion show that marked the festival's commencement paid a beautiful tribute to the exquisite artisanal textile crafts that define Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage. Among the evening's highlights was the presentation of the graduate collection by Ms. Yohani Hansika, a successful graduate of the Fashion Design and Product Development (FDPD) degree program. Yohani's collection captivated the audience, seamlessly blending contemporary style with the timeless allure of sustainable denim. The collection revolves around luxury casualwear crafted from upcycled denim, catering to eco-conscious upper-class millennial women. A central theme of the Ceylon Heritage Festival was the introduction of the "Heritage Hands" label, an exclusive line of clothing and accessories meticulously handcrafted by local artisans, earning the endorsement of the Industrial Development Board for its unwavering commitment to 100% Sri Lankan craftsmanship. Through initiatives like "Heritage Hands," the festival envisions a future where traditional craftsmanship thrives alongside modern innovation, creating a legacy for generations to come. Discussions between the Department of Textiles and Apparel Engineering and the Industrial Development Board are ongoing, with the aim of creating more opportunities for fashion design graduates to showcase their collections at the Ceylon Heritage Festival.
