Heshanie Ileana Tennekoon’s fashion label takes off

DESIGNER Heshanie Ileana Tennekoon from Brisbane’s south is set to take the fashion industry by storm. Her new label Ileana is being launched this month.

Designer Heshanie Tennekoon poses for a photograph at her Rochedale home. (AAP Image/Richard Walker)

DESIGNER Heshanie Ileana Tennekoon from Rochedale is set to take the fashion industry by storm.

The 23-year-old is officially launching her label Ileana this month.

Heshanie aspires to translate the beauty of cultures by creating a link between the east and the west.

Her label Ileana, which will be available online, is being officially launched this month.

The Sri Lankan-born designer, who lives and works in Brisbane’s south, aims to bring more recognition to her heritage by incorporating techniques passed on by generations, which she fears could be lost in time.

Fashion designer Heshanie Tennekoon. (AAP Image/Richard Walker)

“As a designer who has a foot in both worlds, I am very excited to bring this element into the brand and create designs influenced by my island heritage,” Heshanie said.

“By introducing exclusive techniques such as batik prints, handlooms and woven bags into the Australian fashion industry, I believe my vision has come to life.

“The level of character these pieces bring to the brand introduces a third dimension, that is unique to Ileana.

Heshanie Ileana Tennekoon’s label Ileana aspires to translate the beauty of cultures by creating a link between the east and the west.

“I will be selecting unique prints that compliment western culture and lifestyle and hope to empower local batik producers by providing them with global recognition.”

Those artisans are celebrated by the combination of modern designs and natural fabrics.

Heshanie’s label is about creating “affordable luxury womenswear”. The first collection is a journey to “embrace our true self”, by complimenting our body with pieces that allow us to be comfortable in our own skin by using linens and batik silks.

The Sri Lankan-born woman, who lives and works in Brisbane’s south, aims to bring more recognition to her heritage by incorporating techniques passed on by generations, which she fears could be lost in time.

Initial production will be done in Australia to ensure high quality and she will liaise with Sri Lankans for her batik creations.

This year Heshanie showcased her collection as part of QUT Creative Enterprise Australia’s (CEA) annual fashion showcase and business pitch event, Fashion360.

Heshanie Ileana Tennekoon’s label Ileana aspires to translate the beauty of cultures by creating a link between the east and the west.

The Sri Lankan-born woman, who lives and works in Brisbane’s south, aims to bring more recognition to her heritage by incorporating techniques passed on by generations, which she fears could be lost in time.