They are the shoes you’ve always dreamed about and will make you want to forever break up with high-heels. De-Lushiously designed with your well-being in mind, Irushi Ratnaweera Perera who is a big fan of flats herself, brings you various types of sandals which will make you marvel that such sophistication and elegance can be so expertly combined with comfort.
Her range of footwear consists of Thong and Two Strap sandals, Sliders and Toe Ring chappals in various colours and styles that will leave you spoilt for choice and craving them all. This extremely sweet and beautiful lady spoke to us on why she chose footwear (Thank goodness she did!) and how it became her best decision ever.
Irushi, what made you start out in the field of design and why did you pick footwear?
I have always been a fan of shoes myself and back in the day, I would recreate and do designs on pairs I’d bought for myself. In due course, when I wanted to start a venture on my own, footwear was something that topped the list and the rest fell into place.
What do you feel makes a good shoe?
A perfect sole is vital for the comfort and finish of the design and makes feet look their best.
Why did you choose the name ‘Island Lush’ for your brand?
Imanthi Perera, a close friend of mine, chose this name for me. I wanted to convey that these designs been made in an ‘Island’ (Sri Lanka) and ‘Lush’ aptly describes the island life we live in. Plus, ‘IL’ is also the first letters of mine and my husband’s names (Irushi and Lanthra).
Of all the shoes that you’ve designed, which has given you the most satisfaction?
Each piece I design gives me extreme pleasure, given the amount of time and care that we put into the design, sketch, source material and sample in building each pair. Seeing the final output just the way it was in my imagination gives me satisfaction that just keeps sparking my creativity and makes me want to do this every day.
What criteria do you use when designing new shoes?
Comfort to the feet, colours of the season, international trends – all of these are mixed in with my imagination when designing a new pair of shoes.
How do you decide on the colours for your shoes?
It’s mainly the colours and the prints of the season that we use, and sometimes some prints I find are extremely irresistible when I go fabric hunting. Inspiration also comes from our fabulous clients because we treasure the ideas that we receive from them.
What has been your career highlight?
Starting my own business with the corporate sector was the highlight of my career and this has led me to meet amazing people and get some fabulous opportunities.
What fascinates you right now and how does it feed into your work?
I am completely fascinated by the spirit of this Island. All it takes is one look at our designs to know that they have all been inspired by the luscious prints, vibrant island colours and the nudes which represent our sandy beaches…we’ve got it all covered!
What is the best moment of your day?
Every time a sample comes out the way I imagined it in my mind is the best moment of any of my work days.
Who would you like to see wearing your shoes?
Victoria Beckham: You should literally aim for the stars!
Any tips for aspiring shoe designers?
I believe in making designs that I myself would love to own, and as new entrepreneurs, we also need to nurture and build the local skills available, focusing on local production to contribute to our economy while making the best of the outpouring of local talent.
Where would you like to see Island Lush in 10 years’ time?
We see ourselves as a proud Sri Lankan fashion footwear label, supplying to international retailers and clients under the brand name of ‘Island Lush designed and manufactured in Sri Lanka’.
If you’re done with high heels, log on to www.islandlushlk.com
Written by Michelle Alles