The Origins of Certitude by K
Mala Kaluarachchi’s journey with Batik began in 1980 when she immersed herself in the traditional Sri Lankan art of wax-resist dyeing. What started as a personal passion for craftsmanship soon transformed into a thriving business, leading to the creation of Sanathana Batik in 1985. Mala’s eldest daughter, Kanchana Fernando, inherited her mother's love for Batik, along with the skills and artistry that came with it. Trained from an early age, Kanchana not only mastered the art form but also expanded the business to cater to a global audience. As her clientele grew, she rebranded the business as Certitude by K, reflecting her vision for sustainable fashion rooted in tradition.
From Sanathana to Certitude
Certitude by K was born from the legacy of Sanathana Batik, a family-run business that has been a hallmark of traditional Batik craftsmanship for over three decades. While the heritage of Sanathana Batik remains integral to the brand, Certitude by K represents a new era, blending traditional techniques with a commitment to eco-friendly fashion. Today, the brand is managed by both Kanchana and her sister, Dilini Fernando. While Kanchana oversees the creative direction of the brand, Dilini handles the operations across North America. Together, they continue to uphold the values of craftsmanship, sustainability, and empowerment.
Impact and Sustainability
As Kanchana became more aware of the environmental consequences of the fashion industry, she felt compelled to make a difference. The fashion sector is responsible for 20% of the world’s industrial water pollution, and this alarming statistic inspired her to take action. Her solution? Upcycling old clothes with unique Batik designs, breathing new life into discarded textiles and turning waste into wearable art. What started as a personal mission to reduce her carbon footprint soon grew into a business model committed to the principles of a circular economy. Certitude by K combines artistry with sustainability, offering customers an opportunity to make eco-conscious choices without sacrificing style.
ETHICAL HANDMADE FASHION
At Certitude by K, each piece is a testament to our belief in sustainable fashion. Using leftover fabrics from the clothing industry, our Batik designs are hand-applied to upcycled materials, ensuring that every garment is eco-friendly and one-of-a-kind. By choosing our brand, you're not just adding a unique piece to your wardrobe; you're also supporting a movement towards reducing fashion waste. We aim to create fashion that feels good both aesthetically and ethically, so you can wear each piece with pride, knowing it’s part of a solution to global waste.
EMPOWERING WOMEN
Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond fashion. At Certitude by K, we believe in using our platform to empower underprivileged women in Sri Lanka. In partnership with local organizations, we provide career opportunities to women from vulnerable backgrounds, particularly those under the Department of Probation and Childcare. These women gain meaningful employment, enabling them to support their families and build better futures. By purchasing from Certitude by K, you're not only helping the environment but also contributing to the empowerment of Sri Lankan women. Each piece of clothing is more than just fashion; it’s a step toward a brighter, more sustainable world.