‘Trunk’ now in Ramada Colombo

Friday, 20 March 2015 00:05 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

From left: State Minister of Defence Ruwan Wijewardene, State minister for child development Rosy Senanayake and Trunk Founder and sole proprietor Kasuchana Wijeyawardena at Trunk second venture By Inshira Shainaz Trunk, a boutique with an eclectic collection of the best in high fashion, designer wear and accessories, launched their second venture yesterday at the Ramada Hotel in Colombo.

Trunk Founder and sole proprietor Kasuchana Wijeyawardena stated: “I’ve been in the retail business for over 26 years. Having moved to Sri Lanka, I felt a void in the local fashion industry, where there seemed to be little support for talented local designers and manufacturers. I decided to start a boutique retail outlet that showcased, along with premiere international brands, the work of a range of local designers, featuring pieces that encapsulate their authenticity.” “Now just after I opened Trunk, I’m elated to see how the local design industry is flourishing, as more people are proud to buy and wear local brands,” she added. Wijeyawardena further stated that an important aspect of Trunk’s operations was trying to gauge the requirements of their clients by building a close rapport with them. She revealed that oftentimes ladies who come into the store would spend hours browsing through collections, discussing their purchases with staff, mixing and matching outfits and just enjoying the entire shopping experience. Wijeyawardena started her journey in a distinctly different environment of retail at habitat on King’s Road in Chelsea. She also had the opportunity to work with brilliant architects such as Rachid Din, Christian Liarge and Future Systems. Furthermore, she has collaborated with Sunil Sethi, who currently holds the position of President of the Fashion Council in India. A central component of Trunk is the Indian jewellery brand Amarapali. Established in 1978, Amarapali has grown to include over 36 outlets across the world and enlists the services of 1,200 experienced craftsmen who seek to highlight the culture of India through exquisite jewels and unmatched workmanship. Trunk also features classic international designers while also giving local designers a creative space in which to showcase their work in clothing, jewellery, souvenirs and accessories, offering a platform for local brands Sarika Durrant Jewellery, Pedlars Inn Jewellery, Tina Senanayake Jewellery, Sri Maintara and 1948. The store also carries fashion and accessory brands Star fish, Catherine Rawson, Azure from Indonesia, Antik Batik from France, Mimi Mango and Naidya Kassam Sandals from Pakistan. In addition, Trunk features a fine range of local souvenirs from Souk 58, Bludge, Spice Island and Sisi along with British greeting cards and Sri Lankan coffee table books. Trunk is open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. every day at the Cinnamon Grand and now at the Ramada Hotel.