Learning Incubates Fashion: The Case of the Kandyan Kingdom of Sri Lanka

Fashion, an essentially dynamic human activity, earns its survival by influencing others. There are assumed to be some theories behind influence in fashion, hence this research aims to find out the base of those influencing process in fashion. A qualitative approach was used for this purpose with a certain study setting. Kandyan reign of Sri Lanka from 14th Century to 1815 is a well-known historical era for the strong effects of foreign influences on the society. Clothing attitudes of the selective Kings of the era were studied in this research. Plenty of resources such as living evidences, documented information and murals are available in this setting. The analysis was explored through socio-cultural, administrative, religious and economic factors of the era. The analysis has resulted in developing a theory trial and error learning to explain how such status was instrumental in bringing about in influences in fashions. Methodology of the research was based on ‘Grounded Theory Method'. Details are gathered and analyzed in a way that the logical philosophy is generated. The possibility of their modification as to the practicability in the future application to the product development of the fashion industry has been discussed. Validity is tested from cross checking of data, and comparing with formerly established theory related to the field.