From Bridal Gowns to Evening Wear: Shemara Couture Designs

With the passion for Art and Design; Shemara creates some of the most elegant custom Couture bridal wear and evening gowns with fabrics from around the world.

By: Kim W. Harris

How old where you when you knew you had the passion to design? I always loved art and design and dreamed of becoming a fashion designer since I was about 13.

 

What was your inspiration? Growing up in Sri Lanka, I remember that fashion was a big part of the culture I grew up in. I remember my mom dressing up and going to parties and thinking how beautiful she looked in her saree. There were so many beautiful fabrics and colors everywhere. I love bringing in my culture to my designs and combining it with my Fine Art background and creating elegant modern couture custom evening wear for my clients.

 

Do you remember what fashion was like in Sri Lanka? The sarees worn by women were made of exquisite fabrics and workmanship. There were embroidered and embellished fabrics in a variety of silks and colors. When there was an event, I loved seeing all the beautiful colors!

 

What difference would you say is the most prevalent in fashion from other countries? The saree is six yards of fabric that is draped eachtime it is worn. I especially love the luxurious, embroidered, beaded and embellished fabrics. It looks very feminine!

 

Where did you attend college and what was that experience like? I attended the School of the Art Institute of Chicago with received a Bachelors of Fine Arts degree in 1994. It was amazing to be a part of a school with a world renowned museum right there. We were asked to go to the museum and get inspiration for our designs. I am very hands on with my designs and feel like I am creating a piece of art when I design.

 

If you could pick 3 fabrics ..which ones would they be? I love all types of silks and brocades. I also loved the unusual embellished fabrics out there. Whenever I travel, I love to bring back anything that catches my eye.

 

How would you describe your designs in one sentence? Art wear with an East meets West sensibility that is feminine and modern.

 

What are your favorite colors? Too many! Love reds, purples and any bright colors.

 

Who are your mentors? Nicolas Villalba and Jan Strimple

 

What is the future of Shemara Fashion? ( Shemara Couture) – I will continue to design custom couture cocktail, evening and bridal gowns for my clients out of my design studio in Dallas. I am also currently working on a collection of men’s dress shirts and will one day work on a line of women’s evening wear in the future.

Check out the Showroom at:

Shemara Couture
2366 Irving Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75207
www.shemaracouture.com

 Photography copyrighted by: Eldon Photography