• A look at LOVI Ceylon’s latest collection

In a world where fashion trends shift like sand dunes in the wind, there emerges a visionary, Asanka De Mel, the founder and chief executive officer (CEO) of LOVI Ceylon. His passion for his homeland, Sri Lanka, and its vibrant culture has given birth to something truly extraordinary.

The latest LOVI collections offer a kaleidoscope of styles suitable for various occasions, from casual dinner nights to formal events. Notable additions include the LOVI National, hand-embroidered to exude elegance wherever you go, and the LOVI Truck Art Shirt, a unisex delight.

The crown jewels of LOVI’s latest offerings are the modern Nilame-style jackets and vests, paired with meticulously embroidered men’s sarongs. The “Believe” collection proudly weaves the Sri Lankan identity into embroidered jackets and sarongs while introducing unisex tuxedo tops and Rio dresses. Each piece is a labour of love, meticulously created to perfection, embodying not just a sarong but a story that represents the beautiful island nation of Sri Lanka.

Beyond fashion

Asanka De Mel’s LOVI Ceylon isn’t merely a fashion brand; it’s a movement that embraces the essence of Sri Lanka, celebrates its culture, and contributes to its development. As LOVI continues to innovate and inspire, it stands as a symbol of pride for Sri Lankans and an invitation for the world to discover the beauty of this island paradise through fashion.  “LOVI is my love letter to Sri Lanka, and I hope the world falls in love with it too,” Asanka proudly stated.

LOVI Ceylon isn’t just a fashion brand; it’s a testament to Asanka’s unyielding dedication to crafting an authentic Sri Lankan fashion identity that resonates globally.

“I wanted to create a brand that echoes the soul of Sri Lanka,” said Asanka, a man whose journey from the tech hubs of Silicon Valley and New York City to the hallowed halls of Harvard was nothing short of remarkable.

Before stepping into the fashion realm, Asanka carved a path through the heart of the US technology industry, armed with a degree in public policy from Harvard Kennedy School of Government and another in computer science from the University of Texas in Austin. His diverse background attests to his versatility and unbridled drive.

But what sets Asanka apart is his unshakable commitment to his homeland. LOVI Ceylon is more than a business venture; it’s a canvas on which he paints his love for this island paradise, its people, and its culture, allowing the world to see its vibrant hues. His vision for LOVI extends beyond borders; he envisions it as an international fashion brand, a vehicle through which he can champion Sri Lankan identity and contribute to the nation’s growth. “LOVI Ceylon is more than just clothing; it’s a vessel through which we share our cultural heritage and the vibrant spirit of Sri Lanka with the world. Each design tells a story, and every piece is a chapter in our nation’s narrative,” he shared.

Core values

Asanka’s philosophy is simple yet profound: buy local. He passionately advocates supporting local shops and designers, not just to acquire exclusive, designer pieces at a fraction of the cost of imports, but also to keep money circulating within neighbourhoods and the country. It’s a rallying cry for collective action to fortify local economies.

LOVI Ceylon isn’t just socially conscious; it’s a haven of innovative designs. The brand weaves the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan culture into its outfits, drawing inspiration from Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and Buddhist traditions. Asanka infuses the resilience and hope of the Sri Lankan people into every LOVI creation, making each piece a vivid story in fabric.

Beyond design, LOVI’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its choice of materials. Biodegradable fabrics like cotton, silk, linen, handlooms, and beads dominate the clothing collection, aligning with the brand’s vision for a brighter future, one Sri Lankan at a time. Asanka added: “Our commitment to sustainability isn’t just a trend; it’s a promise. We believe in fashion that respects our environment and our future. We want LOVI to be a beacon of eco-consciousness in the fashion industry.”

Adding a touch of glamour and star power to LOVI’s mission is their brand ambassador, singer Yohani de Silva. Furthermore, LOVI’s partnership with Sri Lankan athletes and delegates as the official clothing partner for the National Olympic Committee and Commonwealth Youth Games of Sri Lanka underscores their commitment to the nation’s sportsmanship.