Some people don’t just build brands, they build movements.

And when it comes to fashion that speaks identity, ambition, and a little bit of attitude, this man is stitching Sri Lanka into every thread.

This week on Buzz with Danu, I catch up with the ever-bold, ever-visionary Asanka De Mel.

    1.    You’ve just come off the runway, what was the core inspiration behind this latest collection? What’s been creatively driving you these days?  

In LOVI, you belong to Sri Lanka. You represent Sri Lanka. Clothes that feel like armor, especially during these volatile times. Thanks for having us, Danu. 

    2.    LOVI has always played with identity and heritage — how are you reinterpreting Sri Lankan roots for a global audience right now? 

Sri Lanka is growing, an entrepreneurial class is rising. Confidence plays a huge part in that, whether you’re here in Colombo or anywhere in the world. In LOVI, wear your country with pride.

    3.    You’ve spoken about innovation being at the heart of your work — how did that translate into this specific collection? 

This collection introduced the Sri Lankan flag sweater. Yes, a sweater, made with handloom and traditional knitwear, with light weights for Colombo and thick ones for your Himalayan tour. Now you can show your Sri Lankan identity all over the world any time of the year. 

    4.    Let’s talk about your 2048 vision and where does fashion sit within that vision? 

Great question, Danu. In my 2048 vision, each of your readers will be 10 times richer than today, at least LKR 12 million annual income, and LOVI is creating the clothing for that world. If you want to represent that rich ambition Sri Lankan, this collection is a reflection of that. 

    5.    You’ve recently started a new project alongside LOVI — tell us about it. What gap are you trying to fill or disrupt? 

Luckily for LOVI and my book 2048, we have found the founders, builders, creatives and believers of a rich Sri Lanka. I want to share a set of stories to inspire, educate and entertain them. Wild Ambition is an Instagram reel we release every two weeks—follow LOVI to see it.

    6.    From Silicon Valley to sarongs — your journey is anything but conventional. How has that shaped the way you approach fashion today?  

Still have the same raw ambition of building world class products and experiences for our LOVI community, that will never change. 

    7.    Fashion today is more than just clothing — how do you see it as a platform for diversification, whether it’s tech, culture, or even storytelling? 

Great point. LOVI is about connection with Sri Lanka- that’s why we named this collection “Belong” to connect all of us who believe in the prosperity of Sri Lanka. 

    8.    Do you think Sri Lankan fashion is finally ready to define its own identity globally — and what role does LOVI play in that?  

Yes. Luckily for us 3 million Sri Lankans live outside of the country. These are our Sri Lankan ambassadors. 

    9.    What’s one bold move or risk you’re still waiting to take with LOVI? 

Waiting to put you in a groom outfit, Danu. 

    10.    And finally, what’s next — what can we expect from you in the coming months that will surprise us? 

We are beginning to make our international expansion. If you’re reading this from outside Sri Lanka stay tuned see us in your town soon. Again, thanks for all the LOVE!