Nawoda Bandara
Nawoda Bandara
SRI LANKA
“Sustainability is like a canvas. I’m always exploring, discovering, and learning new possibilities!”
When a transgender friend experienced cyberbullying, Nawoda Bandara decided to show solidarity through design. Mixing vintage military silhouettes with rainbow bars, her collection advocates for the emotions of silent queer warriors.
“I hope my collection will make a positive impact on the LGBTQ community and the world of fashion,” shares the designer, who holds a BA (Hons) in Fashion and Textile Design from Northumbria University (AOD), Sri Lanka. In addition to being a finalist this year, she was also a semi-finalist of the Redress Design Award 2021.
Her collection ‘REALITE’ is unisex, multi-seasonal, multi-functional, and has the ability to mix-and-match. The name brings forth the notion that “social media is reality.” Garments are made with upcycled textiles including sampling yardage, end-of-rolls, and damaged deadstock knitted collars.
Nawoda also uses techniques including zero-waste pattern cutting, crocheting, and handloom weaving to create pockets, piping, and trims. Detachable parts allow the garments to be worn in different ways, extending their versatility and longevity.
Her collection’s signature horizontal, colourful weaved pattern is inspired by the static bars of digital screens, illustrating the effect of social media on gender by connecting them with the colours of the LGBTQ flag. Other inspirations include rock culture, ‘80s power dressing, the Edwardian era, and World War II, juxtaposed with Tibetan mountain tribes. The result is a series of grungy looks accented with rainbow linings.
Nawoda’s collection highlights the struggles faced by LGBTQ people, including media depictions that show them as visibly and behaviorally different, their greater likelihood of being harassed online, and their increased rates of mental health issues. She hopes that her collection can represent the powerful army of the LGBTQ community and its allies.
Nawoda makes use of natural dyeing techniques such as rust-dyeing. She also sources monofibre materials like cotton for better recyclability, only using one type for each garment. Her buttons are natural and biodegradable, too: they are made upcycled from coconut shells.
While creating, Nawoda embraces the intellectual challenge of zero-waste pattern cutting. “It’s a very different way of looking at shapes and it does become creative problem solving at its best.”
Nawoda hopes that through clothing, she can express emotions that resonate with the world. She looks forward to building her knowledge on sustainability and making strong, lasting connections with other fashion professionals.
“Sustainability means to care. Once you start to care about people and the environment, it changes everything you do or create.”
