An Australian mom, Harshani Visvalingam, frustrated with the lack of quality dress options for her daughter, embarked on a journey that led to the creation of an award-winning business. Seeking a beautiful, high-quality dress with a touch of nostalgia for her daughter’s first birthday, Harshani decided to take matters into her own hands after failing to find what she envisioned in stores or online.
Thus, the handmade clothing brand Miss Ayana Rose was born out of Harshani’s determination to craft children’s clothing reminiscent of a bygone era, inspired by the heirloom dresses her own mother had gifted her. The brand’s ethos revolves around reviving nostalgic children’s clothing with intricate details and a handmade touch, a stark contrast to the mass-produced children’s apparel saturating the market.
Harshani’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship led her to establish Miss Ayana Rose, where 70% of the clothing is made in south-east Melbourne, with the hand-smocking artistry carried out in Colombo, Sri Lanka, by skilled women artisans. Her commitment to supporting women through fair wages and sustainable work opportunities underscores the brand’s ethos of empowerment and community.
Throughout the brand’s inception, Harshani spent her daughter’s nap times researching fabrics, sketching designs, and sourcing materials, all while involving her mother, Priya, in the process. The collaborative effort culminated in the official launch of Miss Ayana Rose in May 2024, marking a significant milestone in Harshani’s entrepreneurial journey.
The brand’s offerings expanded beyond dresses when Harshani welcomed a son in 2024, prompting the inclusion of shirts, overalls, and other garments tailored with the same meticulous care and attention to detail. Miss Ayana Rose’s collection features a variety of styles, from tulle skirts to peter-pan collars, each adorned with intricate lace, embroidery, and smocking, ensuring that every piece becomes a cherished heirloom.
Harshani’s dedication and hard work were recognized when she received an Honourable Mention in the Handmade Business Award category at the 2025 AusMumpreneur Awards. Despite the challenges of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, Harshani remains steadfast in her commitment to creating timeless pieces that celebrate childhood and family.
Encouraging other aspiring entrepreneurs, Harshani emphasizes the importance of taking action and swiftly addressing issues in the market. Her advice to fellow moms echoes her own journey of identifying a need and proactively working towards fulfilling it, culminating in the success of Miss Ayana Rose.
As the brand continues to evolve, family remains the cornerstone of every creation, inspiring Harshani to innovate and design with a blend of tradition and modernity. To explore the full range of meticulously crafted handmade kids’ clothes by Miss Ayana Rose, visit their website and experience the timeless elegance and quality that define the brand’s essence.
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