Meet Ruth Weerasinghe, Redress Design Award 2020 Womenswear Finalist

RUTH WEERASINGHE

SRI LANKA

From rising rates of pollution to extreme weather conditions, the imminent dangers posed by the climate emergency inform the Redress Design Award collection of Sri Lankan designer Ruth Weerasinghe. SO4 Outlast explores concepts of future and survival. Functional and durable, pieces are designed to protect wearers from external threat. Detachable parts allow the adaption of garments to different needs; further parts can be added to replace, repair or upgrade items. Everything is reconstructed from secondhand clothing, and industrial and production waste - including heavy duty, synthetic textiles - sourced from mass clothing manufacturers. “Reconstruction adds value to the product due to its craftsmanship,” says the Fashion Design & Marketing Graduate of the Colombo Academy of Design. “The pieces are made to be investments.”

Using creativity and imagination to answer the planet’s most urgent problems remains a starting point for research. Inspiration is provided by innovative designers and brands such as Stella McCartney, Adidas and Patagonia that combine technology, science, art and design to create and explore next generation sustainable clothing.

“Through my work, I am driven and inspired to make an impact, to correct our mistakes and to find solutions through products, processes and innovations,” says Ruth. “Sustainability is my canvas. I’m always exploring, learning and discovering new possibilities, especially in consumer behavioural changes and in material sciences, fabric innovation and bio-materials. The fashion industry is driven at such an accelerated pace,” she continues. “Mass manufacturing, fast fashion and excessive consumerism is destroying our planet. My career goal is to develop a circular system designed to coexist with human and nature, nurturing both at the same time.”