The University of Moratuwa has always been known for producing some of the most talented young designers in Sri Lanka. In 2025, the university once again showcased this talent through its much-awaited event, Graduate Fashion Week 2025. It was a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the bold spirit of the next generation of fashion leaders.
This year’s Graduate Fashion Week was held on two stages. On 11th and 12th August, the shows took place at the Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering at the university. On 14th and 15th August, the event moved to Cinnamon Life, Colombo, giving the public an opportunity to witness the magic of young Sri Lankan designers on a bigger platform.
Graduate Fashion Week is not just another fashion show. It is a platform where graduates of the Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering present the work they have developed during their years of study. These collections are the result of months of research, experimentation, and design.
For many students, this event is the first step into the professional fashion world. Industry experts, designers, buyers, and media attend the shows, making it a valuable opportunity for graduates to gain exposure and recognition.
The runway at Graduate Fashion Week 2025 was filled with energy and originality. Students presented collections that reflected global fashion trends while also staying connected to Sri Lankan culture and identity.
Every show was more than just clothing, it told a story. Themes such as environmental awareness, cultural heritage, and social identity were woven into the designs, making the collections not only beautiful but
also meaningful.
One of the strengths of Graduate Fashion Week is how it brings together students, teachers, and industry professionals. The academic staff of the university guided the students throughout their preparation, while mentors from the fashion industry gave valuable feedback.
The event also highlighted the collaborative spirit of the Faculty of Architecture, under which the Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering operates. Students worked not just on garments but also on-stage design, lighting, and presentation, creating a complete fashion experience.
The shows at Cinnamon Life, Colombo, added a touch of glamour to the event. This modern venue allowed the graduates to present their work to a wider audience outside the university. Guests included fashion industry leaders, media representatives, and fashion lovers, making it a high-profile stage for young designers.
Graduate Fashion Week 2025 was more than just four days of runway shows, it was a glimpse into the future of Sri Lankan fashion. The graduates showed that fashion is not only about trends but also about expressing ideas, values, and identity.
By supporting young talent, the University of Moratuwa continues to shape the future of the country’s fashion industry. These graduates are expected to take their skills into diverse areas, from working in international fashion houses to starting their own brands.
The Graduate Fashion Week 2025 was a vibrant and inspiring event that celebrated the creativity and hard work of the University of Moratuwa’s textile and apparel graduates. With bold collections, sustainable designs, and meaningful themes, the shows proved that the next generation of Sri Lankan designers is ready to make its mark on the world.
As the lights went down on the final runway at Cinnamon Life, one thing was clear: the future of fashion in Sri Lanka is in safe and talented hands.
