“That is why we picked the name for this ready-to-wear label which bases its design philosophy on being a classic with a Sri Lankan twist and zest. It truly captures the Sri Lankan way of life — carefree, casual yet smart and sharp.  It’s a label bound for international markets which carries with it a strong Sri Lankan point of view and flavour. Stringhopper made its debut at Colombo Fashion Week 2009. It was well received by the regional media, buyers and guests. It will be retailing in Bangalore from next month,” says Prasad Bidapa, who had a string of male models strut their stuff and show off a collection of tropical shirts and trousers in checks, stripes and plains mixed and matched with scarves, floaters and belts.

“In fact, it is perfect for the global traveller off on a cruise vacation. He wants to look cool, casual and debonair, not over dressed or stuffy,” he added.

 Bangalore's top 15 male models choreographed by Kevin Oliver proved that the gap between the sexes is narrowing if not vanishing going by the colours and designs in the collection. Gingham checks in fruity shades like orange and strawberry met big bold plaids and tartans in bright tones. A quieter collection of semi formal shirts in indigo blues and charcoal blacks were offset with white collar and cuff details making for a smart and wearable collection. The models also teamed up some of the clothes with bright flip flops from Arugam Bay that added bursts of colour and a relaxed resort feel to the look. This was an exclusive men's line with the women's range soon to follow. Apparently, men can now wear pinks and orange, violets and sea greens with impunity. No more having to stick to boring beiges, blacks and browns.
Naturally without a feminine component, the evening lacked the oomph factor but the young male models carried off the traditional female colours without batting an eyelid and with plenty of aplomb.