- To us, timeless means creating something that holds emotional weight. It’s not about simplicity for simplicity’s sake; it’s about intention.
1.
In an industry often ruled by fleeting trends and mass appeal, Cult Original dares to take a different path. It’s more than a fashion brand; it’s a movement built on individuality, intention, and a deep respect for craftsmanship. Since its inception, Cult Original has become a quiet but powerful force in Sri Lanka’s fashion landscape, drawing in a loyal following of creatives, artists, and rule-breakers who dress to express, not conform. Before it ever took shape in brick and mortar, The Cult Original existed in something far more elusive: a sense of identity. Their presence online didn’t hinge on gimmicks or trend-chasing. Instead, it felt like watching someone walk confidently through a crowded room not needing to be seen, yet impossible to miss. There was an elegance to their restraint, and a certain defiance in their refusal to appeal to everyone. “Who gets it, gets it,” say Dinitha and Nithya, the duo behind the brand. The pricing? Almost modest, considering the craftsmanship. The designs? Thoughtful, assured, and refreshingly unsanitized. I admired how the brand never felt the need to play it safe. Each design was a study in intention—never derivative, never trying too hard to be “different,” and yet, utterly singular.
At the helm, two visionary founders - Dinitha Thilakarathne and Nithya Nanayakkara, redefining what fashion can mean, stripped of gimmicks and full of soul. With a refined streetwear aesthetic and a deep vintage pulse, Cult Original bridges eras, cultures, and moods. In this candid conversation, the two founders open up about the story behind the brand, the philosophy of "cult" in fashion, and where the label is headed next - hint: far beyond borders
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QLet’s rewind to the beginning - how was Cult Original born?
Cult Original was born out of a desire to completely shift how fashion was perceived in Sri Lanka. From the outset, we didn’t just want to design clothes, we wanted to build a culture. There was this clear space for a brand that felt bold, international, and resonated beyond just aesthetics. We were craving something with meaning, with attitude. That’s how it started, slowly but deliberately, shaping a brand that stood for more than just garments.
QWhat does the word “cult” mean to you in a fashion context?
“Cult” in fashion, to me, is about deep connection. It’s not about exclusivity for the sake of being exclusive; it’s about resonance. It’s about building a community that aligns with what we stand for. Cult Original is for people who feel something when they put our clothes on. It’s not designed for everyone, and that’s intentional. It’s for those who get it, the vision, the values, the vibe.
QHow would you describe the aesthetic you're shaping with Cult Original?
The aesthetic we’re shaping is what I like to call structure with soul. There’s minimalism, but never a lack of detail. It’s clean but never cold. We balance edge with wearability. Every piece has intent, whether it’s a sharp silhouette or a subtle texture. Think of it as elevated streetwear with a heavy emphasis on craftsmanship and storytelling.
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QThere’s a strong vintage heartbeat here, which eras or icons inspire you most?
Absolutely, vintage is in our DNA. I’m particularly drawn to the '70s and the '90s, both eras were rebellious, daring, and expressive in completely different ways. The ’70s had this glamorous nonchalance, and the ’90s brought in this raw, grungy confidence. Icons like Kate Moss and Madonna have had a lasting influence, their ability to push boundaries and stay timeless is something I always come back to.
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QCan you walk us through your creative process, from mood board to mannequin?
It all begins with a vibe. That might sound vague, but it’s very instinctual. I build mood boards obsessively, drawing inspiration from film stills, brutalist architecture, vintage editorials, or even a random screenshot from a movie scene. That vibe then transforms into sketches.
From there, we move into sampling, refining, testing fabrics, reworking proportions. I’m involved in every detail - fittings, styling, how a garment moves on a body. It’s a very immersive and hands-on process.
QWho do you envision wearing Cult Original?
Our community is full of people who are bold enough to be themselves, creatives, artists, entrepreneurs, tastemakers. They’re not dressing for approval; they’re dressing to reflect who they are. They’re more interested in personal style than seasonal trends. Cult Original is for the self-assured, the people who don’t need validation to take up space.
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QIs there a specific piece in this drop that feels symbolic to you?
Yes, our mixed-fabric oversized shirt. It’s a piece that really captures the essence of Cult. It’s got structure and ease; it pulls from the past and hints at the future. It feels almost contradictory, relaxed yet sharp, and that’s exactly what we’re about. It’s wearable art that also makes a statement.
QIn a world of fast fashion, what does “timeless” mean to you?
To us, timeless means creating something that holds emotional weight. It’s not about simplicity for simplicity’s sake; it’s about intention. A timeless piece is one you return to, not just because it’s still in style, but because it still feels like you. I want people to wear our pieces five, ten years down the line and still feel something, still see the soul in it.
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QWhat does a typical Cult Original shoot look like? What’s the energy behind the scenes?
A Cult shoot is its own universe. There’s music, creative chaos, laughter, adrenaline. We treat it like a creative lab, every person on set brings their own magic. The models aren’t just there to wear clothes, they embody the energy. Photographers, stylists, makeup artists, everyone’s input is valued. It’s collaborative, it’s experimental, and there’s a real sense of family. That energy shows up in the final image.
QWhat can we expect next from Cult Original?
Cult Original was never meant to be limited to just womenswear, we always envisioned it as a lifestyle brand. So, we’re now taking deliberate steps in that direction. That means expanding our categories, but also our philosophy, designing not just for how you look, but for how you live. The long-term goal? To build an international fashion empire, rooted in authenticity and creative freedom. We’re dreaming big, and we’re not apologizing for it.
Nithya and Dinitha
