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Pioneering Ms.Adhisha Dahanayake, the broke significant ground by and Awards in 2020, Women
Entrepreneur of the year 2021
visionary founder and CEO of
introducing plus-size models in
Double XL, has been a trailblazer
Sri Lanka, a bold move at a time
(WIM) and 45 under 45 Global
in redefining fashion for the
CEO Award, where she was
when representation for larger
Inclusivity plus-size community in Sri Lanka bodies was almost nonexistent. honored as a Sri Lankan Woman
Leader. Her achievements
since 2010. Her journey began
Adhisha, herself modeled for the
brand during its infancy, paving
with a deeply personal mission
have motivated her to continue
the way for a more inclusive
pushing boundaries, even
fueled by her own experiences
as a plus-size individual.
fashion industry. Today, Double
during challenging times like
and Adhisha, faced a significant gap XL, has become synonymous the pandemic. Beyond the
in the market, where finding
fashion industry, she has been
with empowerment, providing a
a vocal advocate for body
platform for plus-size individuals
stylish, comfortable, and well-
fitting clothing was a challenge.
positivity and inclusivity, inspiring
to feel seen and represented.
Innovation Determined to change this Over the years, the brand has individuals across Sri Lanka
and beyond, with nearly fifteen
launched numerous campaigns
narrative, she launched Double
years of experience in retail and
that have resonated with
XL, the first-ever dedicated plus-
size clothing brand in
customers and redefined
a vision for global expansion
in Plus-Size Sri Lanka, catering to both men fashion norms. The Freedom soon. Through her unwavering
Collection made waves with
commitment to creating a world
and women with sizes ranging
its exclusive prints inspired by
from XL to 6XL. Adhisha’s
where beauty truly comes in all
passion for empowerment
the Double XL logo, celebrating
sizes, Adhisha, has cemented
Fashion extends far beyond fashion her individuality and freedom of her legacy as a pioneer in plus-
expression. The Black & White
size fashion and a beacon of
vision was to create a space
hope for countless individuals
Collection brought a runway-
where everyone, regardless
of size, could feel confident,
and empowered.
fashion, while the Island Escape
beautiful, and celebrated. ready elegance to plus-size who finally feel seen, celebrated,
Having been a national Collection captured the essence
powerlifter and a record holder of Sri Lanka’s tropical lifestyle
selected for the Commonwealth with breezy, vibrant designs. The
Powerlifting Championships in L’Arte del Monocromo capsule
2020, Adhisha, brought a unique collection explored timeless
perspective to the plus-size monochrome styles with
community. Her achievements innovative photoshoots featuring
in powerlifting demonstrated mirrors, symbolizing self-
that strength, capability, and reflection and individuality. Each
beauty come in all sizes. This campaign has been a testament
ethos became the cornerstone to Double XL’s commitment to
of Double XL’s philosophy, delivering not just clothes but
which challenges stereotypes a statement of confidence and
and celebrates body diversity. self-love. Adhisha’s leadership
Her success as a powerlifter and dedication to breaking
served as an inspiration to many, stereotypes have earned her
proving that being plus-size is multiple accolades, including
not a limitation but a strength. recognition at the World
In the early years, Double XL, Women Leadership Congress
67 From Campus to Corporate Leadership l Aug/Sep 2025 l www.bimt.lk From Campus to Corporate Leadership l Aug/Sep 2025 l www.bimt.lk 68
