On the 15th of November 2025, Colombo’s fashion scene welcomed a graceful new beginning with the opening of the first Yaara by Nadee boutique. Located at the Shirohana Store on Dudley Senanayake Mawatha, Colombo 08, the boutique marked a meaningful milestone for founder Nadee Kurukulasuriya, who has long dreamed of creating clothing that feels personal, comforting, and beautifully simple.
The launch was intimate and heartfelt. Surrounded by her family, close friends, and well-wishers, Nadee celebrated the moment with gratitude and quiet pride. Guests explored the new space, walked through the racks of soft, elegant clothing, and shared their love and encouragement for the young brand as it found its place in the world.
The boutique itself reflects Yaara’s botanical-inspired softness. With calming teals, gentle lilacs, warm gold accents, and delicate floral touches, the interior creates a serene atmosphere where visitors can relax, browse, and connect with the brand’s spirit. The space mirrors Yaara’s philosophy, mindful, elegant, and centred on comfort.
As Yaara begins its journey, it stands not only as a clothing brand but also as a reminder of confidence, community, and the quiet beauty of feeling truly yourself. In this exclusive interview, Nadee Kurukulasuriya speaks openly about her inspiration, her process, and her hopes for the women who wear Yaara.
Could you briefly introduce yourself and what led you toward the world of fashion?
I’m the founder of Yaara. I’ve always been drawn to how clothing can shift confidence and energy. Fashion felt like the most natural canvas to tell stories, my own and those of the women around me. That connection between emotion and clothing is what pulled me into this world.
What inspired you to launch your clothing line, and what is the story behind its name?
Yaara was born from my desire to create clothing that feels like a friend, supportive, effortless, and honest. The word “Yaara” means “friend,” and that’s exactly the experience I want every woman to have when she wears our pieces. I wanted the brand to feel warm, familiar, and comforting.
How would you describe your brand’s identity or signature style?
Yaara is minimal, modern, and mindful. Our pieces blend clean silhouettes with subtle Sri Lankan cultural undertones. They are simple but expressive, soft but confident. The goal is to create clothing that speaks quietly yet leaves a lasting impression.
What core values or philosophy does your brand represent?
We stand for comfort, confidence, and conscious craftsmanship. Every piece is designed to be lived in, not just worn. We also take ethical production seriously and make choices that respect both people and the planet. For me, fashion should feel good inside and out.
What were the biggest challenges you faced while setting up the clothing line?
The hardest challenge was finding the right production partners who understood and shared my commitment to quality and sustainability. Building a brand from scratch comes with so many lessons; you learn, unlearn, and constantly refine your vision. It requires trusting your instincts even when things feel uncertain.
What types of clothing do you specialize in, and what makes your pieces unique?
We specialize in elevated everyday wear, pieces that move easily from day to evening. Our uniqueness comes from our fabrics, our attention to detail, and the quiet elegance that runs through everything we create. The clothing is simple, but intentionally so. There’s beauty in subtlety, and we try to honour that in every design.
Can you walk us through your design and production process?
Every collection starts with inspiration from nature, architecture, or even small everyday moments. I begin by sketching, refining, and shaping the silhouettes. From there, I work closely with local artisans to bring the designs to life. We use ethically sourced materials and focus on craftsmanship that feels sincere and thoughtful.
Who is your target audience, and what gap do you hope your brand fills in the market?
Yaara is created for the modern woman who appreciates simplicity with soul. We are here for women who want comfort without losing elegance, and style without losing ease. I think there’s a gap between comfort and sophistication, and Yaara tries to fill that space with clothing that fits beautifully and respects a woman’s lifestyle.
What can customers look forward to from your brand in the coming months?
Customers can expect fresh silhouettes, breathable natural fabrics, and a limited-edition line that celebrates Sri Lankan artistry. We are also excited to expand into size-inclusive collections so more women can enjoy the comfort and confidence our designs aim to offer.
What message or feeling do you hope people take away when they wear your designs?
I want women to feel grounded yet elevated, as if they’re stepping into the best version of themselves. When someone wears Yaara, I hope they feel a sense of calm, comfort, and quiet strength. It’s more than clothing; it’s a mood, a gesture of self-care, and a reminder to move through the world with confidence.
A Gentle Beginning with a Bright Future
As the evening of the launch came to a close, guests continued to admire the curated pieces, speak with Nadee, and offer their heartfelt blessings. Many praised the boutique’s soothing atmosphere and the brand's refreshing identity, simple, honest, and beautifully feminine. Their support made it clear that Yaara is already touching hearts. Yaara’s journey has only just begun, but it arrives with a sense of purpose and sincerity that sets it apart. It celebrates individuality, confidence, colour, and community. And as the brand grows, it promises to stay true to the values that shaped its foundation. With this graceful beginning, Yaara by Nadee steps into the future ready to inspire women across Sri Lanka and beyond, to dress with ease, express themselves with honesty, and bloom in their own unique way.
