Master marketer and business leader Kishu Gomes’ key principles for getting ahead are simple: hard work, respect and solid communication. Taking the helm of Chevron Lubricants Lanka Plc in 2000 as CEO/Managing Director and holding the position for 18 years, Gomes was the youngest Sri-Lankan to head a truly multinational organization, and among his many achievements, made Caltex the well-respected corporate and household brand it is today.
In 2018, Gomes stepped down from Chevron Lubricants Lanka to focus on promoting Sri Lanka internationally, assuming the post of Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau. In the aftermath of the 2019 Easter attacks, Gomes decided to focus his energy on the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau aggressively re-building the beaten tourism sector and achieving recovery in a very short period of time.
Gomes is now the Group CEO and Director of Dreamron Lanka, heading the expansion of this leading cosmetic company. A huge fan of the LOVI lifestyle, Gomes sat down with us to share his views on life and work.
What was the best piece of career advice that you received?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever got was a simple statement made by Mr Ken Balendran- Kishu, you can do better.
When someone at that level says that to you, you have a reason to look inwards. You’re a human being, with simple emotions and feelings, and when someone tells you that you have something bigger in you then you want to discover that.
What would you say to your 22-year old self?
Keep working hard. When I was 22, I was working almost 14 hours a day, I was doing sponsorships and corporate communications for Coca Cola, I had the opportunity of meeting lots of different people from all kinds of different sectors, industries and disciplines, and if I hadn't worked hard I wouldn’t have achieved all this.
What steps do you personally take to make each day successful?
Every morning I jot down what I need to accomplish that day and make sure I keep following that. I aggressively pursue my schedule, and if I’m not able to accomplish what I need to do, then I won’t be able to sleep. That's my mindset.
When you’re a Group Managing Director, you will, of course, get things coming in between and you need to be able to deal with that as well and cope up with unexpected and unanticipated things that come your way while still meeting your goals.
How do you stay grounded mentally during times of struggle?
Firstly, I try to understand the nature of the challenge and figure out what is controllable and what is not. Then I deal with the things I can control and try not to worry about things I can't or don't want to control. That way I don't waste my time and can focus my energy better. When human beings waste time thinking about uncontrollable things they can’t get anywhere.
How do you prioritise at work and manage your time?
It all depends on the value of that activity. When I have to prioritise, I make a list and see what activities are high value and not so high value. Value is the only thing way to determine how you prioritise.
How do you deal with rejection?
I use effective communication to win such people back and build their confidence in my favour. I also allow some time for things to digest. The correct art of communication can get you out of any situation.
What is the most important value you need to take to work with you?
Respect. It’s a basic fundamental human value. No matter what level someone is at, they each have their own dignity, and you must respect that. Everyone deserves fundamental respect.
What are your thoughts on the newest generation of business-people?
Sometimes, I feel, they tend not to look at an issue from all angles. Having said that, the younger generation is very smart and sharp. They understand the world. But they sometimes lack the discipline to pause for a moment when it is required and look at things from all angles before taking that final judgement call.
What is your current passion project?
Professionally, I’m looking at driving revenue for the country through my expertise. We have massive plans to enter five new foreign markets over the next six months and expanding our product ranges. From a personal standpoint, I’m working on the final phase of the interior of my house that I’ve recently built.
What does it feel like to represent Sri Lanka internationally?
When tourism was at its strength, we represented Sri Lanka at the highest level and were the first to talk to international media after the Easter attacks. It gives me a lot of pride to talk about Sri Lanka to the international community. Being globally trained in media management as a media spokesman I have that natural knack of being able to dominate any audience, but this is just because it’s my style, it’s because I have pride in me as a Sri Lankan. It's a conviction I have that I basically try to quietly add to the Sri Lankan brand.
What are the most important steps to take when managing a crisis with your company?
The most important thing is to rally people together and discuss and understand the issue from everyone’s perspective. The most important thing to manage is communication, and coming up with a plan and executing it.
You have successfully led major companies and Sri Lanka Tourism- what ability would you say has helped you most through it all?
The ability to get into the hearts and minds of people. Be with tourism or multinationals, I am able to get into hearts and minds at any level, whether it is the grassroots level or the international level, speak their language and relate to them.
Restructuring a company or industry is not easy- how do you do it?
I run diagnostics that help me to do a complete audit of all aspects of the business. I figure out the level of competitiveness of the business. I figure out where the business is strong and where it’s not strong and come up with a strategy to create a greater level of competitiveness.
If you can’t compete, you can’t win. You have to recognise your current level and what level you want to achieve.
What advice would you give the younger generation on leading?
Use your head. You need to do a lot of mind jogging to be able to clearly understand an issue. You need to give it a lot to thought. Think think think!
Understand what the solution is and action it. Most young people are action-oriented, the moment they see something, they decide what needs to be done and aggressively apply themselves. Sometimes you need to take some time to understand the issue and therefore the solution before you take action and avoid wasting time, energy and resources.
What's your favourite thing about LOVI?
The great thing about LOVI is that it is our unique thing that has been brought back with a different taste to create something new for the country and give Sri Lanka a new identity. Fashion has to keep evolving, and that new identity is needed otherwise we'll become very old-fashioned. The LOVI brand is this kind of fusion of newness using our traditions and customs and preserving what we have inherited and spicing it up to the best of both worlds.
]]>Ajai Vir Singh has been instrumental in crafting modern Sri Lankan style. Having founded Colombo Fashion Week in 2003, Singh has carefully nurtured Sri Lankan design, working with local and international designers to get Sri Lanka recognised on the global fashion stage and championing responsible fashion and circularity within the Sri Lankan fashion industry.
What was the best piece of career advice that you received?
I’ve received so many pieces of advice from a lot of people at different times in my life. Advice is like a stepping stone, one is never good enough to take you all the way. For me, years ago, in the beginning, someone told me “the harder you work, the luckier you get.” Another piece of advice I remember is from Richard Branson’s book which was along the lines of “If you love what you do, you will never have to work again”.
What drives me is a conviction of “Can you really change the world?”, and, for me, the answer is yes, I can. My whole thought process starts from where I am. Can I change my immediate environment? Can I change my industry? My country? My regional industry? My global industry? When you have the conviction to do something and challenge yourself, doors will always open.
What would you say to your 22-year old self?
I would say “The dreams that you dreamed were good. They were not far away and I’m very happy you dreamed those dreams.”
What steps do you personally take to make each day successful?
I look at moments, not time. Time is just how you get somewhere, once you get there the moment begins. With every moment I go in to, I want to be successful in that moment. Those moments make up your day, and if you win every moment, you win the day.
How do you stay grounded mentally during times of struggle?
I believe that your fortification is in your thought process, and I don’t allow my thought process to be breached. Once I decide on something, I’m very determined that nothing will come in the way and I will find a way to overcome anything that does. That’s part of the journey of being an entrepreneur. You have to know that there will be challenges and it is up to you to refine them and use those challenges to make yourself better, sharper and stronger.
What is the most important value you need to take to work with you?
Hunger and compassion. I always want to have a clean conscience.
What is your current passion project (the initiative they’re promoting right now)?
Broadly, my current passion project is responsible fashion and circularity, something I’ve been championing for some time with the Colombo Fashion Week platform. I’m about to move into phase three of our responsible fashion movement and phase two of our circularity movement with our new project Colombo Circular and season two of the Responsible Meter.
What does it feel like to represent Sri Lanka internationally?
It's a moment of such pride, it gives me goosebumps. It's almost like an added responsibility to do your best and what you do is so deeply connected with your country- if you falter, your country falters. There comes this beautiful seamless symbiotic relationship between your country and you. Your values and emotions come together. Everything I do, I do first with Sri Lanka in mind.
What’s the most important thing for Sri Lankan fashion now?
Sustainability and responsibility. That's where we will find our edge. This is why I’m pushing things like responsible fashion, the Responsible Meter, and consumer awareness and response so aggressively.
How can Sri Lanka compete globally while maintaining our identity?
Our identity is the only way to compete globally. Our Identity is unique and it is sad that we have not spent time defining our identity better and making it stronger. That is the only downside of globalisation, it defuses your identity and makes things universal. The trick is for your identity to rise in such a way that it finds its place and gets accepted globally.
What's your favourite thing about LOVI as a brand?
I have an Interesting relationship with LOVI. Asanka came for my brand development class, Project 7 when was LOVI was a young brand. As a brand, LOVI has picked up on that one unique niche and stayed to its core. It reminded me of my starting of Arugam Bay.
It's encouraging to see Asanka going on that journey, especially from the time he came to Project 7 which was three or four years ago. He has stuck to it and developed. I see what was imparted during Project 7 taking shape and form.
]]>Staying relevant in this ever-changing world we live in can be tough. But the power to innovate lies firmly within us, shares Randhula de Silva, Co- Founder CEO of GoodLife Accelerator (GLX) and Director, former CEO of Hatch Works.
Through Hatch, de Silva created a hub of nurturing and advancement for entrepreneurs, and through GLX, de Silva fosters innovation in ethical and sustainable businesses in agri & food, travel and wellness. These are just a few of the initiatives de Silva works on. Through the many hats she wears, de Silva constantly has her finger on the pulse of Sri Lankan innovation landscape.
What was the best piece of career advice that you received?
“Sometimes you just need to let it go,” this was something I was told last year when I sat with Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson for a mentoring session. You can’t have everything go your way and in your control. By trying to keep a perfect picture at all times you lose the ability for your team to move into a role where they can take ownership and grow into the responsibility of driving things.
Sometimes, and especially when you’re a woman, your hustle is so hard and you’re so hard on yourself to so intensely move the needle, but sometimes what works is just letting go.
Name three books have been game-changing for you-Why?
Recently, the book New Power by Jeremy Heimans and Henry Timms was very inspiring. It explains how there are structures around new power and how things are done differently by new generations. I read it during the lockdown, and it was game-changing because most of the things I was practising in my career and life were explained beautifully and woven into one fabric.
Another one that I read over 10 years ago is The Alchemist by Paolo Coelho. As cliché as it sounds it’s a special book because reading it as a 20 year old, it opened doors into a new universe of consciousness for me on a personal and spiritual level. It’s a book I still go back to when I want to feel connected.
And then there’s Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse, it’s difficult to explain but this book is utmost special and home in itself to me. It’s at the very core of a lot of things I believe in. How one’s journey of seeking for truth lies outside of all organised things and religions and is found within one’s own self. It’s peaceful, sharp, intelligent, and is very close to my heart.
What would you say to your 22-year old self?
Eat less chocolate and do more graffiti.
What steps do you personally take to make each day successful?
I start with a specific routine that I rarely miss regardless of where I am. I want my first sight to be a view I like. I'm the only one who opens the front windows in my house for this reason. When I open the windows, I see a yellow flower tree that has been there from the day I was born, and that’s very fulfilling. It’s truly the smallest things in life that makes the biggest impact on you.
I then practice five minutes of gratitude. It’s something I started earlier this year because it has been a tough year with a lot of uncertainty. It’s not been easy to keep everything intact and be responsible for other people’s wellbeing and mental health.
I’ve also started transcendental meditation in the mornings and set aside an hour to be with the people and things I love including my cats, before I tune into my devices and go through my list to complete for the day.
How do you stay grounded mentally during times of struggle?
It’s easier said than done. I think I've beaten the shit out of this year regardless of how bad it was, but it wasn't easy. It takes self-confidence, belief and faith in your vision and a lot of patience and empathy, especially when you have a heap of people working with you. You need to be a little selfless and get your eyes off short term objectives and be there for the team whose behind all the works to ensure their wellbeing first at times of struggle. It takes an extra lot out of you.
When I'm personally struggling, I try to learn something new to distract myself and breakaway from that loop of negativity. It can be anything from a simple fix to something more complicated. It gives you a different perspective and dynamic in your head. I also have my cats and a couple of people close to my heart who are extremely good listeners. Talk to someone who knows you for your real self and not the self you are to the world.
Finally, I also try to be there for some else. When you're there for someone else it helps you understand your problems aren't the only ones in the world. You’re able to zoom out and see yourself as a small part of something much more bigger. The bigger picture always helps to see the journey a lot clearer even when times are hazy.
How do you prioritise at work and manage your time?
Because I have such multiple roles, I order my day in chunks. I don't take on any meetings or answer calls until 11 am. That time is for all my creative and conceptual work, and only after that do I take on meetings. It helps me knuckle down on details and specifics before my mind gets crowded.
I look at my calendar a day ahead and see what my tomorrow looks like. I chunk my time according to the initiative I’m working on and I leave a couple of hours open every day for my team to come and talk to me about anything. That way, no matter how demanding my schedule gets, my team knows they can reach me and when.
I have my notifications turned off the phone on mute, I look at my phone frequently, but only when I know I can and I know I have to. This helps me to focus, and stay away from being driven by each and every trigger coming from a device.
How do you deal with rejection?
Most times I take it well because some things you're just better without. Even if you think it's such a big mess, that natural course often end up being the best thing to happen to you. I approach it through a different lens. I find out why. If it’s fair, and if it doesn’t make a big difference I let it go and if it’s a big loss I try to find the learning in it and find solutions.
Some things I really fight for, but I choose my battles always. There are very many ways to go to war. You can fight fiercely and hardcore or you can be soft and subtle about it and try to make it work in a different way.
What is the most important value you need to take to work with you?
Be kind, see possibility in everything and be collaborative, but don't be naive. I don't let my kindness or optimism to be made a weakness. I’m very quick to see it when people are misusing these, and, well, that when they get the finger from me.
What inspires you most about the new generation of business-people?
The drive and need they have to make things better and make change happen. That's really the best thing about the new generation. Not just millennials, but also Gen Z. There’s also the fact that they don’t look for approval or do things the same way. They do look for approval and so much noise on social media, but otherwise, they make their own paths.
What worries you most about the new generation of business-people?
Not to generalise, but at surface level, it’s the way that things are taken very much at face value. What they see is what it is, and the complexities in cultures, dynamics and society are not shown into it. This worries me because we are where we are because of aeons of evolution. That is our story, and ignoring that is stupid and naive.
They’re extremely talented, sharp and intelligent, and they often go with what the best sales pitch is without taking time to look beneath the surface. There should be space for complexity and I don’t see that capacity yet. They’ll be better at this when they’re 30 perhaps. Fingers crossed, anyway.
What is your current passion project?
GoodLife X a journey I started in 2018 and still at the core of my heart! The very core of GLX is to basically help Sri Lanka and Asia take abundance of its unique resources to the world in sustainable and innovative ways and start creating value. We have so much wisdom and goodness to offer in our ancestral habits for years without knowing what the new world can use it and value it for.
GLX’s idea is to offer the magic of Sri Lanka to the world and cater to the needs of the emerging conscious consumers of the world.
What does it take for us to be able to compete internationally?
We need to get out of the island mentality. We need to stop playing in silos and fighting with each other. It is stupid to think your neighbour is your enemy or your competition is in the same industry. Sri Lanka is so small and our industries need to work together.
An important value to take to work is to be collaborative and transparent. We need to get out of that mentality of everybody's against each other and learnt to work together.
Tell us in 3 steps how you handled Covid-19 at work?
First, talking to my people. Checking where they're at, how they’re taking it and how they feel about it. Some have less resilient ways of coping with things than others and you can't expect the wheels to keep turning at the same pace as before Covid-19.
Reassessing approaches and objectives. With Hatch, for example, physical spaces are our bread and butter and all our programs like the boot camp and accelerators were all taking place in a real space. We had to quickly assess and go fully virtual and we were fluid enough to make that change. You need to be ready to unlearn and let go of mental expectations and rigidity towards your objectives.
Lastly, not being so hard on myself. This is something I'm still working on. Team mentality, meeting objectives, perfect outcomes-sometimes 100% of all these things is not possible. Predominantly, women beat ourselves up so much trying to make everything work. There is no cookie-cutter solution. You need to be open and accepting, and stop beating yourself up too hard to achieve excellence at all times.
You helm a very dynamic startup that pushes a variety of boundaries on a daily basis- how do you keep it all going?
You have to get the right team. It’s important to know who’s right for each role and open opportunities and empower them to be creative and run with it. I’m not a gatekeeper.
At Hatch, our information streams are extremely open and fast. Everyone works on Slack in a very collaborative way and has access to what’s going on. It’s not like a corporation where everyone has their corporate function or role, and it’s important that everyone knows that. It’s one common vision and common goal where everyone’s working for one thing and if someone is overloaded, the rest of the team knows it’s time to step in.
It’s also just being super open, chilled and super respectful and knowing what’s important to you and your founders.
How do you keep your team inspired enough to stay innovative?
I share whatever new thing I come across with them. We have a channel called random where we share all interesting things.
We also do things together beyond work. Jeevan is a huge fan of our gaming night every Thursday at Hatch and that’s a lot of fun to have on a weekly basis, it helps us bond stronger and better as a team.
I stay approachable and have zero tolerance to people who give excuses to not get things done. I celebrate those who find solutions without me. If my team can function without me on a daily basis that is my biggest success and victory.
Where does the power to innovate lie? With whom? How can we unlock our hidden potential?
The power to innovate lies within you, within each and every one of us. Innovation is basically human creativity, and we’re such powerful, beautiful, creative individuals, all of us. Creativity is about solving problems. Whether it’s cooking something differently or writing a code, all of these are innovative creations. Something that comes from within you trying to change the game or the status quo.
Reinventing something takes what you have within you. Anything you dare to do differently helps unlock it. The moment you stop daring and stop being open to working with others is where you stop the ability to unlock that innovative potential.
What is the most fundamental thing to remember for an entrepreneur trying to grow their business?
There is no end line. Growth is not linear and it's stupid to think that it is. It's a multifaceted complicated matrix. You have to really be smart to unlearn, let go and take a leap of faith to jump into new peripheries.
You can't do anything alone, you have to work with their people and you have to be collaborative. Be open to sharing your thoughts and information and cooperate with others who are on the same mission. You can't own a space as you used to 40 years ago. You'll only survive and thrive if you’re a collaborative person.
]]>You can go western with a tuxedo, a crisp suit, or casual linen suit, or you can go traditional with the Aarya Sinhala suit (the sarong and kurta combo that you see on most politicos) or the Kandyan nilame suit, which needs no introduction and is a grand production in and of itself.
But what if these options don’t really appeal to you? Do you want something fresh and contemporary that speaks to your roots at the same time? Do you want to wear something comfortable like the national dress but not as fussy as the nilame suit? And what if you’re on a budget?
Worry not, LOVI has some amazing pieces that blend the tradition of the Aarya Sinhala suit with contemporary design to create something worthy of the modern, cosmopolitan Sri Lankan in a way that will not break the bank. We’ve put together three different schools of style for the groom looking to get hitched the LOVI way with our top picks for impeccable wedding style. Let's talk bout the new national for the modern groom.
The new national
LOVI’s passion for our national clothing is unparalleled and has led us to reimagine the Sri Lankan national for the modern man. These are our picks for the new national for the Sri Lankan groom.
The LOVI Crown Men’s National offers a glam take on the familiar men’s national shirt, with hand-embroidered crown motifs in gold or silver thread (your choice) making this Sri Lankan staple pop in the best of ways.
Pair it with the LOVI Crown Embroidered Sarong and weave in the iconic imagery of Sri Lanka’s iconic Kandyan crown into your special day. The LOVI Crown Embroidered Sarong is the perfect wedding sarong for any groom.
The LOVI Crown Men’s national and Crown Embroidered Sarong comes in black, navy blue and white to match any wedding colour scheme.
For a more subtle royal touch to your wedding day look, consider the LOVI Crown Tuxedo Sarong. This sarong features a satin tuxedo stripe embroidered with LOVI’s crown motifs giving you that James Bond look blended with Sri Lankan charm.
The LOVI Crown Men’s Panel Shirt is an option for the groom who’s taste favours the minimal. Constructed of 100% cotton, the front of this shirt panel is delicately embroidered with LOVI’s crown motif, and strikes a smart balance of texture that keeps you looking impeccable through the day. This shirt is ideal for the groom who wants to look regal but doesn't wear a jacket or a national shirt.
LOVI’s new national ensemble comes in bright red, to symbolise joy and vitality. This jewel-toned national exudes relaxed charm and style. Wedding menswear doesn’t have to be black and white to be sleek. This new national is an elegant minimalist ensemble made entirely in silk with discreet gold detailing and an interesting back-detail inspired by the buttoned-up vent of the modern trenchcoat.
Like much of the LOVI collection, the new national is easily customisable and can be created in the colour of your choosing. From pure white, off white, cream, tan, gold, navy, emerald, and of course, black.
The new national is meant for the gent who’s not afraid to make a daring style statement (Word of caution: you may potentially upstage the bride though. Keep in mind that Please remember that LOVI can bear no responsibility for such situations!).
Keeping calm and carrying on in true LOVI fashion
LOVI CEYLON designs and produces a range of sarongs and other clothing to make customers look good, feel good and be amazing in almost any setting. We’re more than a fashion brand. We’re a lifestyle and a movement looking to bring the thrill of sarongs to people around the world. LOVI is for someone bold, active, and authentic who seeks something beautifully made in an understated way. Visit the LOVI JOURNAL to learn more about the LOVI way of life.
]]>You can go western with a tuxedo, a crisp suit, or casual linen suit, or you can go traditional with the Aarya Sinhala suit (the sarong and kurta combo that you see on most politicos) or the Kandyan nilame suit, which needs no introduction and is a grand production in and of itself.
But what if these options don’t really appeal to you? Do you want something fresh and contemporary that speaks to your roots at the same time? Do you want to wear something comfortable like the national dress but not as fussy as the nilame suit? And what if you’re on a budget?
Worry not, LOVI has some amazing pieces that blend the tradition of the Aarya Sinhala suit with contemporary design to create something worthy of the modern, cosmopolitan Sri Lankan in a way that will not break the bank. We’ve put together three different schools of style for the groom looking to get hitched the LOVI way with our top picks for impeccable wedding style. Let's start with the nilame
The Nilame reinvented
Nothing evokes Sri Lankan style like the nilame suit. This form of dress, formally known as mul anduma, was initially reserved only for Kandyan royalty, though in the years since the abolishment of the Kandyan kingdom, it is now worn for ceremonial occasions like weddings. Incidentally, the mul anduma is an import from India, introduced by the Indian wife of a Kandyan king in the 18th century.
LOVI’s New Nilame jacket is a look that draws directly from the grandeur of mul anduma adapting it for the modern man who wants to look without all the fuss of the intricate nilame suit. This structured velvet jacket draws on elements of colonial uniform and mixes it with the thick gold thread reminiscent of the Indian zardosi style embroidery that adorns the iconic velvet jackets of the nilame suit.
Pair this luxe jacket with the LOVI Kandyan sarong (pictured), an ivory cotton handloom sarong with stripes of shimmering gold woven in and sprinkled with delicate hand-embroidered lotus motifs.
If Kandyan royalty was still around today, in the traditional sense, we guarantee this would be one of their style staples.
LOVI’s new national nilame is an altogether different expression of the national. Working on a base of smooth silk, this reinterpretation of nilame style features appliqued velvet panels with thick-gold thread embroidery reminiscent of the nilame style but reimagined entirely for the modern style revolutionary who is looking to make a statement that celebrates Sri Lankan heritage.
LOVI’s new national nilame comes with a matching sarong that also features velvet appliques with the signature nilame inspired gold thread embroidery.
The new national nilame is easily customisable, be it in terms of colour, or embroidery. However you want to tweak the new nilame to suit the real you, the team at LOVI has your back.
Keeping calm and carrying on in true LOVI fashion
LOVI CEYLON designs and produces a range of sarongs and other clothing to make customers look good, feel good and be amazing in almost any setting. We’re more than a fashion brand. We’re a lifestyle and a movement looking to bring the thrill of sarongs to people around the world. LOVI is for someone bold, active, and authentic who seeks something beautifully made in an understated way. Visit the LOVI JOURNAL to learn more about the LOVI way of life.
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Here’s the LOVI guide to being the man for all seasons at any wedding regardless of the role you’re playing for the day, be it the father or brother of the bride or groom, immediate family to the happy couple or well-wisher joining in the celebrations.
The Uber-Formal Wedding
Some weddings, like it or not, are very formal, and leave you no room to experiment. A suit and black tie is not your only option for this sort of wedding. Well, you should, of course, go black-tie in the traditional sense, but you don’t necessarily have to limit yourself to the conventional suit to look good at a formal wedding.
The LOVI Tuxedo Sarong is a fun Sri Lankan alternative to the traditional suit and tie. Constructed in smooth handloom, the tuxedo sarong takes inspiration from the tuxedo trouser with a stripe of silk satin along its right side. The LOVI Tuxedo Sarong gives you that suave James Bond-vibe that goes perfectly with a well-shaken (not stirred) martini. It also comes in white, navy, emerald and crimson.
The LOVI Crown Tuxedo Sarong takes the tuxedo sarong design a step further by replacing the classic satin stripe detailed with embroidered Sri Lankan crown motifs, adding some contrast and texture to a classic sarong.
Pair the tuxedo sarong with a well-cut Tuxedo jacket such as a shawl collar to complete your big wedding look. You can pick one up at Hameedias, Tux Ceylon or O:LIVE Couture. Or we’ll make you one.
The Big Wedding
Most weddings tend to be formal but mix in playful, creative touches throughout the event. If you’ve been lucky enough to be invited to the kind of wedding that demands you look posh but also just a little revolutionary, the LOVI Crown Embroidered Sarong should be your go-to. Intricately hand-embroidered with motifs inspired by the last crown of Sri Lanka’s famed Kandyan kingdom. The sarong will keep you looking and feeling like royalty all night long.
A classic sarong, it’s also available in black, navy blue and white.
Complete the royal look with the LOVI Crown Men’s National Shirt. Who says the national kurta need only be worn by politicians and state officials. The LOVI Crown Men’s National Shirt, with its intricate crown embroidery, gives the national a style twist leaving you looking like you were born to rule. Why not dress for the part?
Another variation of the LOVI Crown collection that can fit into any creative wedding is the LOVI Men's Admiral Crown Shirt. Designed for when you need to feel relaxed but look smart, the LOVI Men’s Admiral Crown Shirt is constructed of 100% cotton, keeping you cool and comfortable and features panels of impeccably embroidered crown motifs. We hear the panelling in the center of this shirt can leave you looking trim. But don’t just take our word for it. Try it out and see. It comes in navy blue and black, and is dressy enough for you to do away with wearing a jacket altogether.
Are crowns not really your thing? Maintain regal glamour with the all-new LOVI Black and Gold Sarong. This beautiful cotton handloom sarong inspired by Nilame style features proportioned stripes of sparkling gold to give any outfit a touch of unmatched splendour. Pair it with the LOVI Admiral Shirt for major style appeal points. The adventurous charm of the LOVI Admiral Shirt mixed with glorious sarong will leave you looking dangerously dapper.
The LOVI Royal Pinstripe Sarong offers a subtle charm that makes it versatile for just about any wedding—even the uber-formal wedding when styled correctly. Luxuriant handloom and meticulously proportioned gold pinstripes make this timeless sarong a style staple for any gentleman. Channel the greats of old Hollywood like Clark Gable with your own Sri Lankan take on the pinstripe that is so versatile you can wear it just about anywhere.
When you still want to keep the look formal, you can pair the LOVI Royal Pinstripe Sarong with the LOVI Crown Embroidered Cuff Shirt. Available in Black, White and Navy Blue, the LOVI Crown Embroidered Cuff Shirt features a classic construction with discreet crown embroidery on its cuff giving it. We recommend wearing it with a nice watch and shaking hands when you wear this shirt. Those cuffs deserve to be appreciated.
The LOVI Royal Pinstripe Sarong also comes in a range of pastel colours for the more casual setting.
The Chill Wedding
Speaking of casual settings, not all weddings are big formal affairs. For the more casual wedding, be it a beach wedding or a simple at-home affair, LOVI has you covered.
The LOVI Rugby Sarong comes in a variety of pastel shades that are perfect for that low-key daytime wedding. A more casual sarong with graphic stripes in contrasting colours, the Rugby Sarong is for when you want to keep things playful and fun, but versatile enough to still be dressed up for low-key events.
For the casual wedding that still requires a memorable style statement, the LOVI Nautical Admiral Sarong is made for the adventurer looking to stand out. A new take on the traditional sarong, even by LOVI standards, the nautical admiral sarong features a unique front panel and two side pockets that inject a little extra whimsy into your look and makes people look twice. The LOVI Nautical Sarong is for the enigmatic man who likes to keep people guessing.
Wedding attire doesn’t need to be black and white, pun intended. LOVI’s unique mix of taste, style and innovation aims to make the Sri Lankan national dress a style statement for the modern Sri Lankan that can be worn in any setting.
Keeping calm and carrying on in true LOVI fashion
LOVI CEYLON designs and produces a range of sarongs and other clothing to make customers look good, feel good and be amazing in almost any setting. We’re more than a fashion brand. We’re a lifestyle and a movement looking to bring the thrill of sarongs to people around the world. LOVI is for someone bold, active, and authentic who seeks something beautifully made in an understated way. Visit the LOVI JOURNAL to learn more about the LOVI way of life.
]]>We’ve put together a few LOVI favourites and some showstoppers from our newest collection to show you how to look amazing at any wedding.
]]>Weddings tend to be all about the bride. She knows what she’s going to wear. And she has an army of people to help her look her best. But as a guest, what about you? What do you wear to the latest wedding you’ve been invited to?
By and large, a saree is what you wear to a Sri Lankan wedding. The glitzier the better. You can also wear a dress. But we have another alternative. LOVI CEYLON’s new national is designed for women too. You now have a national dress that you can wear for any occasion.
We’ve put together a few LOVI favourites and some showstoppers from our newest collection to show you how to look amazing at any wedding.
The Uber-Formal Wedding
You know this sort of wedding. It’s the kind of wedding where dressing up can be stressful because everything must be perfect.
If going glam is the route you want to take, the LOVI Sequined National is the number to pick. An ensemble that features a sarong wrap entirely hand-embellished with glossy black sequins, and a blouse with matching sequin detailing, the LOVI sequined national blends ultimate luxury and discreet drama. You can also drape the wrap to show as much (or as little) leg as you prefer.
The LOVI Kandyan Chic Nilame is for those ladies who appreciate modern traditionalism. A masterpiece in shades of pink, the LOVI Kandyan Chic Nilame is a complete outfit that features a metallic silk top with luxe velvet panels hand-embroidered with gold thread motifs inspired by the illustrious Kandyan kingdom of old. The ensemble is completed by a delicate pale pink sarong with proportioned gold stripes to create a look of style, sophistication and refined grace.
The LOVI Kandyan Chic Nilame is customisable and can be made in different colours to suit your personal style.
The Big Wedding
Some big weddings demand you play by the rules, others let you make your own rules, as long as you look great. For the big wedding that gives you some room to play around, the LOVI Girl Boss Ensemble is definitely an interesting way to go.
The LOVI Girl Boss Ensemble pairs a structured velvet dinner jacket with an elegant white and gold sarong, mixing traditionally masculine and feminine silhouettes in a way that is sensual yet arresting. The structured formal dinner jacket is made of velvet with satin lapels and features delicate embroidery in araliya motifs along the right sleeve designed to show itself when you first greet someone and help you make that extra-memorable first impression. The Girl Boss Sarong features gold bands woven into a white cotton base and discreet crystal embellishment to stand out from the crowd powerfully but discreetly.
The LOVI Crown Embroidered Sarong blends the iconic heritage imagery of the last crown of Sri Lanka’s Kandyan kingdom with the comfort and elegance that only a LOVI sarong can provide. Delicate embroidery on a soft cotton handloom base creates an aura of regal beauty that can empower any woman who wears it.
Pair this unique sarong with the LOVI Crown Tuxedo Top for a Sri Lankan twist on the iconic style of Katherine Hepburn. An elegant crop top that hits that perfect mix of playful glamour, the LOVI Crown Tuxedo Top features the same meticulous hand-embroidery from the LOVI Crown Embroidered Sarong. It is also available without embroidery.
Another variation of the LOVI Crown collection that can fit in at any creative wedding is the LOVI Crown Embroidery Sleeveless Top. Designed for when you need to feel comfortable but look smart, this top is constructed of 100% cotton, keeping you cool and comfortable with impeccably embroidered crown motifs taking centre stage.
Pinstripes aren't just for 1920s-era men’s suits. The LOVI Royal Pinstripe Sarong is made for the woman who values subtle power dressing. This handloom sarong with woven gold pinstripes embodies understated chic. It comes in a range of colours including pastels for more casual settings. Its versatility makes it a true style investment. It can be styled for any occasion, and is the kind of sarong you'll find yourself wearing all the time.
The Chill Wedding
Not all weddings are big formal affairs. LOVI has you covered for the low-key wedding, be it a beach wedding, a garden wedding or a simple at-home affair.
Nothing says effortless chic like a flowing silk ensemble in delicate pastel pink. The LOVI New National in pale pink is a layered silk sarong wrap paired with a matching silk blouse featuring the unique LOVI collar. This ensemble will keep you looking and feeling cool. A must-have for the balmy weather of the tropics.
The LOVI Lama Sari ensemble channels the childhood memories of Dhamma School and visiting temples. This reimagining of the lama sari pairs a top reminiscent of the iconic lama sari blouse in mustard yellow silk and chiffon, paired with a pale blue layered silk sarong wrap embellished in crystals, giving you a memorable daytime look that blends style and nostalgia.
The LOVI lama sari ensemble can be made in different colours upon request.
The LOVI Rugby Sarong comes in a variety of pastel shades that are perfect for the daytime wedding. A more casual sarong with graphic stripes in contrasting colours, the Rugby Sarong is for when you want to keep things playful and fun, but also be dressed up enough for low-key events.
For the casual wedding that still requires a memorable style statement, the LOVI Nautical Admiral Sarong is made for the adventurer. A new take on the traditional sarong, even by LOVI standards, this unisex sarong features a unique front panel and two side pockets that injects a little whimsy into your look. In this number, you’re at the helm of your own ship.
Dressing for a wedding no longer means just wearing a saree or a dress. LOVI’s unique mix of taste, style and innovation aims to make the Sri Lankan national dress a style statement for the modern Sri Lankan that can be worn in any setting.
Keeping calm and carrying on in true LOVI fashion
LOVI CEYLON designs and produces a range of sarongs and other clothing to make customers look good, feel good and be amazing in almost any setting. We’re more than a fashion brand. We’re a lifestyle and a movement looking to bring the thrill of sarongs to people around the world. LOVI is for someone bold, active, and authentic who seeks something beautifully made in an understated way. Visit the LOVI JOURNAL to learn more about the LOVI way of life.
]]>This is where LOVI comes in. We believe in both looking good and feeling good. Our custom-made fabric, discerning design and carefully considered detailing makes any LOVI piece the perfect addition to your house-party wardrobe.
Making sarongs a part of your house party wardrobe
Sarongs are beautifully versatile unisex garments. In Sri Lanka, before the sarong, both men and women wore the reddha (an unstitched piece of cloth that was draped to perfection). The sarong, based on the Indonesian saraung, found its way to Sri Lanka about 300 years ago, making itself a cornerstone of national fashion and an integral part of the Sri Lankan man’s national dress. But why let men have all the fun?
LOVI’s sarongs keep you feeling cool and comfy while looking like the queen you are. Here are some of our top LOVI picks to keep you looking sensational at any house-party, even your own.
All LOVI sarongs come with pockets. Real pockets, the kind that you can put things into, like your phone, your keys and some emergency makeup.
LOVI’s House-Party Style Picks
We’ve put together some of our top picks for house-parties. From the chill house-party at a friend’s place to the more put-together house-party with extended family.
The LOVI Classic French Nautical Sarong is made for those occasions where you want to be tasteful yet simple. This sarong gives you the effortless style that is so evocative of the French. The Classic French Nautical Sarong comes in pearl white with discreet navy stripes woven in and a tasteful border of matte gold. A single crimson stripe built-in among the navy stripes creates a pleasing and memorable style statement for the woman who wants to make waves without rocking the boat.
Pair it with our limited edition Tuxedo High Neck Sheer Top for an elegant, luxe look with a hint of playful sensuality, and look like you’ve just stepped off the streets of Paris.
The Classic Nautical Sarong is another elegant option for any house party. In solid tones of red or blue, the simple sarong is made of the softest handloom and includes horizontal stripes of silver woven in along the width of the sarong. This simple combination and considered proportion create the base for the chicest ensemble to impress even the most critical aunty at the family gathering.
Pair it with our Crown Embroidery Tuxedo Top and look like the lady of any manor.
The Tuxedo sarong is LOVI’s answer to the little black dress. Designed in midnight black with a satin stripe down the right side, this unisex sarong is made to ooze glamour and sex appeal while staying versatile enough to be dressed down for daytime. The soft handloom comes together with silky smooth satin to create a feeling of true luxury and elegance for a woman of any style, from demure to femme fatale.
The Tuxedo sarong also comes in white and red, if black isn’t your favourite colour.
Pair the tuxedo sarong with our limited edition sequined sailor top for some casual glamour or with our Women’s Tuxedo Top for that timeless Audrey Hepburn look. (You can also learn about draping your very own sarong the Audrey Hepburn way here)
When looking to keep things casual, the Classic White Nautical sarong can become your new go-to. A pearl white sarong elegantly woven with eight blue hand-woven horizontal stripes, this perfectly proportioned sarong will help you make a truly memorable statement in casual style. The lightweight fabrication makes it perfect for those balmy afternoon get-togethers. Or even just to wear to the beach.
Our rugby sarong is perfect for the sporty girl, with bold sport-inspired stripes that help create an energetic and vibrant ensemble. Available in a range of colours and styles, the rugby sarong is perfect for the woman who has difficulty sitting still and just needs to keep moving.
Pair it with your favourite t-shirt or crop top and prepare to just lie about looking fabulous.
Our Rise Nautical Sarong wrap is another fun option for the chill house-party. A re-invented pearl white sarong in the softest, most breathable handloom. The Rise Nautical Sarong Wrap comes with five blue stripes of varying proportion, creating a striking graphic look that is sure to turn heads.
LOVI’s Paradise Sarong Wrap is a unique piece of sarong-inspired fashion that gives you all the comfort of a sarong with the functionality of a wrap skirt. It’s the perfect gateway piece to begin embracing the joy of sarongs.
With a vibrant palette of pink, purple and yellow, this handwoven vertically striped sarong makes the perfect day-wear option and with careful styling can be a very playful night-time style staple too. Plus, you can drape it to show a little bit of leg, which may be just what you want, depending on who you’re trying to impress.
Pair it with our Women’s Tuxedo Top to hit that perfect mix of playful glamour.
Rocking out in LOVI’s tops
LOVI’s sarongs aren’t our only attraction (although the sarong will always be LOVI’s first and greatest love).
Check out some of LOVI’s unique signature tops that can give any outfit an extra amp of style.
Our Women’s Tuxedo Top is an elegant crop top that hits that perfect mix of playful glamour, whether you choose to dress it up or down. It’s one of those staple pieces that you will find yourself wearing more and more because it’s just so chic and versatile.
Our Crown Embroidery Tuxedo Top has all the style lines of the women’s tuxedo top but packs an extra layer of sophistication with meticulous hand-embroidery adding that crowning glory to your outfit (pun intended). This top will make you the lady of any manor you find yourself in.
Keeping calm and carrying on in true LOVI fashion
LOVI CEYLON designs and executes a range of sarongs and other clothing to make customers look good, feel good and be amazing in almost any setting. We’re more than simply a fashion brand. We’re a lifestyle, and a movement looking to bring the thrill of sarongs to people around the world. LOVI is for someone bold, active, and authentic who seeks something beautifully made in an understated way. Visit the LOVI JOURNAL to learn more about the LOVI way of life
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Ah, house parties, a joy for some and an utter chore for others. Whether you’re a host or a guest, a comfy outfit can be that one little thing that keeps you sane when dealing with the famous impertinent Sri Lankan Aunty (think Netflix’s Indian Matchmaking but more intense), or running interference with that one friend who doesn’t quite know how to pace himself at the bar.
So, why sarongs at a house party?
Sarongs, and their pre-cursor, the reddha (draped unstitched fabric), have been around for millennia. They are the ultimate chill piece and LOVI sarongs are versatile for any type of house-party, from a proper at-home do for the uncles and aunties to a simple house party with your friends.
The beauty of LOVI’s products, sarongs or otherwise, is its unfailing quality and impeccable style. Unique fabrics, considered design and intricate detailing come together to make each LOVI piece a sound style investment.
Here are some of our favourites for every kind of house party. From formal to friends, you’ll never risk your reputation (or that of your parents) with these options.
LOVI RUGBY SARONG
Let’s start with the LOVI Rugby Sarong, a cool way to stand out when hanging with the boys. A more casual sarong with graphic stripes in contrasting colours, the Rugby Sarong is perfect for when you want to keep things playful and fun. Though named the Rugby Sarong, you don’t need to involve sport while wearing it. Its light, comfortable construction does mean that you can still join an impromptu match of cricket, rugby or whatever other sport catches your fancy.
The Rugby Sarong isn’t only for running with the boys though, pair it with the LOVI Yacht Long-Sleeve T-Shirt for a look of casual chic or go dressy with the Unity Tab Shirt.
LOVI CLASSICAL NAUTICAL SARONG
The LOVI Classic Nautical Sarong is one our top picks for those house parties that require you to be well-dressed, like a fancy Christmas party. A simple yet luxuriant handloom sarong, the classic nautical sarong features horizontal woven stripes, from a discreet uniform stripe in silver (or white, depending on style) to give you some pizazz while staying cool and comfortable.
The Classic Nautical Sarong is not simply for the high-profile house party though. Available in a range of colours and styles, it is a staple piece that you can dress up or down to suit any occasion.
LOVI WOVEN CHECK SARONGS
LOVI’s Woven Check Sarongs are perfect for those evenings at home entertaining family. These sumptuous handloom sarongs feature white & grey stripes woven in to make a memorable geometric style statement. The breathable cotton handloom makes it great for Sri Lanka’s humid weather, and it comes with black or white ties to, ahem, keep things in place. With a range of black, blue, red and green to choose from, the woven check sarong is one of our most versatile pieces.
It goes beautifully with our Rugby Shirt, giving you that evasive mix of smart and comfortable.
LOVI LEATHER CHECK SARONG
If you’re looking for a more dressy checked style statement, check out the LOVI leather check sarong which features hand-stitched leather stripe detailing, giving your sarong a textural style boost and a luxe pop to your outfit that would look right at home on the streets of Paris.
Available in red, blue and black, the leather check sarong lets you channel a bit of that bad boy vibe while keeping things chic.Wear it with our Unity tab shirt, and give yourself an aura of unbeatable style.
LOVI RIBBON CHECK SARONG
The LOVI ribbon check sarong features twelve metres of hand-stitched ribbons in a painstakingly laid out check pattern, giving your sarong some understated elegance while still giving your outfit an extra element of oomph. The blend of ribbon with our expertly woven handloom creates a piece of subtle beauty.
Available in green, red, blue and black, combine this elegant sarong with our Unity Cuff Shirt, to put together an outfit that exudes discreet charm and grace.
Want to learn exactly how to drape your LOVI sarong? We’ve got you covered with our simplest, most comfortable drape.
What about up top?
LOVI isn’t just about sarongs, although sarongs are our first and most passionate love. Here’s a look at some of our most at-home appropriate tops that can help you stand out just a little bit more at your house party.
LOVI RUGBY SHIRT
The LOVI Rugby Shirt, is the cool, comfortable shirt to complete any casual ensemble. Inspired by Sri Lanka’s island nature, the Rugby Shirt is 100% includes intricate detailing in emerald green and navy blue, that draws the eye without being flashy.
These two tops are from our Unity range, inspired on a design level by the colours of our great Sri Lankan flag, and on an emotional level by unity and coming together as one people for all of Sri Lanka.
UNITY CUFF SHIRT
The Unity Cuff Shirt comes in midnight black and features stud detailing in gold or silver as you desire. It’s an amazing way to dress up a casual outfit and strike the perfect balance at any house-party, as a host or a guest. The Unity Cuff Shirt also features LOVI’s signature collar, and includes a discreet splash of nationalistic colour on each cuff.
UNITY TAB SHIRT
The Unity Tab Shirt is a sleek yet playful for those less-stuffy family gatherings and comes in white or midnight black with gold or silver detailing as desired. The little tab on the chest in in our national colours add a discreet and charming element of colour while keeping things smart and can also be an interesting conversation starter. The Unity Tab Shirt also features LOVI’s signature collar and comes with discreet metallic detailing in silver or gold.
LOVI YACHT SHIRT
Moving away from the Unity range, one of LOVI’s staple casual pieces is the LOVI Yacht long-sleeve t-shirt, which can tie any casual look together effortlessly. This wonderfully proportioned collarless t-shirt is made out of the best cotton jersey and features an interesting shoulder-open detail that adds personality to any look.
Keeping calm and carrying on in true LOVI fashion
LOVI CEYLON designs and executes a range of sarongs and other clothing to make customers look good, feel good and be amazing in almost any setting. We’re more than simply a fashion brand. We’re a lifestyle, and a movement, looking to bring the thrill of sarongs to people around the world. LOVI is for someone bold, active, and authentic who seeks something beautifully made in an understated way. Visit the LOVI JOURNAL to learn more about the LOVI way of life.
You may know the basic way to wear a sarong: the jump-in, wrap and tuck method. But LOVI has broken the barrier to take us into the future with innovative, stylish ways to drape a sarong. Here are some of the first we've tried. Although model by a man and woman, they are unisex in style. Let us know how you wear with your pictures at #loviceylon
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