From Kuching to Queensland, fashion entrepreneur, Sher Lo, has built ANANNASA into a distinctive Australian resortwear label celebrated for its vibrant prints, artisanal detailing, and commitment to craftsmanship. During a recent visit home, the Sarawak-born designer reflected on the inspirations that continue to shape her creative journey and the enduring influence of her roots.
A Sarawakian behind an Australian fashion success story
WHEN Brisbane-based fashion designer, Sher Lo, returned to Kuching earlier this month, it was both a personal and professional homecoming.
The founder and creative force behind ANANNASA, an Australian fashion label celebrated for its artisanal detailing, embroidery, beadwork, vintage-inspired prints, and global influences, returned home to spend time with her father, who will turn 98 this year.
The visit also allowed her to reconnect with Sarawak and visit the label’s exclusive local stockist, Chez Ratna. For Sher, returning to Sarawak is always a reminder of where her creative journey began.
A former student of St Mary’s School in Kuching who later completed her schooling in Sibu, Sher left Sarawak to pursue higher education in Australia.
Like many young Sarawakians of her generation, she sought opportunities abroad at a time when career prospects at home were limited.
Her career path took her from Singapore, where she worked as a fashion buyer for Metro Singapore, to Hong Kong and eventually to Brisbane, Australia.
It was there that an unexpected chapter began.
“Fashion design was never part of the original plan,” she recalls.
“I started creating and marketing my own pieces online almost by accident.”
That accidental venture eventually blossomed into ANANNASA, a resort and lifestyle label known for its joyful use of colour, statement prints, and effortless elegance.
The brand’s distinctive black-and-white pineapple logo reflects its name, which means pineapple in Hindi.
Inspired by nature and home
Despite having lived in Queensland for more than two decades, Sher says Sarawak remains deeply embedded in her creative DNA.
“Growing up surrounded by lush greenery, rivers and a rich mix of cultures gave me an appreciation for colour, texture and craftsmanship from an early age,” she says.
“It also taught me to embrace a relaxed and natural way of living, which often comes through in my work.”
She finds similarities between Sarawak and Queensland, particularly their tropical climates and close connection to nature. Every return visit provides fresh inspiration.
“Whether it’s the vibrant local culture, the food, or simply being immersed in nature, I always leave with new ideas,” she says.
Celebrating Australia’s wilderness
Every ANANNASA collection begins with a story, and the Spring/Summer 2026 collection is no exception.
The inspiration emerged while Sher was researching a trip to the Australian Outback.
Captivated by the country’s unique flora and fauna, she developed a collection that celebrates Australia’s native wilderness.
Botanical references such as banksias, gumtree foliage and waratah flowers appear throughout the collection, creating prints that capture the colours and spirit of the landscape.
One of the standout capsule collections, STELLA, features earthy neutrals, organic tones, and touches of red inspired by the hues of the Australian Outback.
Another capsule collection introduces fresh greens accented with subtle sparkle.
“The collection is a celebration of Australia’s natural beauty while giving our customers a variety of colours, prints and styles to choose from,” she explains.
Fashion with purpose
While ANANNASA is recognised for its artistic prints and vibrant palettes, Sher believes fashion should never sacrifice comfort and wearability.
“We always design with the customer in mind,” she says.
“Comfortable fabrics, flattering silhouettes and versatile pieces are just as important as creativity.”
Natural fibres remain at the heart of every collection.
Cotton and plant-based viscose are preferred for their breathability, movement and ability to absorb colour beautifully.
The brand’s signature silhouettes also play a key role.
Rather than constantly reinventing successful designs, Sher refines and updates bestselling shapes season after season, pairing them with new prints and colour stories.
This approach ensures that each collection feels fresh while remaining unmistakably ANANNASA.
Respecting culture and craftsmanship
Culture and heritage continue to influence Sher’s work, though often in subtle ways.
“We draw inspiration from different places, stories and environments,” she says.
“The challenge is translating those influences into something modern and wearable.”
Her commitment to responsible fashion has also strengthened over the years.
In an era dominated by fast fashion, ANANNASA embraces a slower, more considered philosophy.
“We champion the work of artisans and produce in small batches,” she says.
“We focus on quality, longevity and versatility.”
Customers are encouraged to mix and match pieces from different seasons, extending the lifespan of their wardrobes while reducing waste.
Looking ahead
Asked about future inspirations, Sher’s imagination quickly travels to the Greek Islands.
She is fascinated by the iconic evil eye motif and envisions reinterpreting it through unexpected neon colours rather than the traditional blue and white.
“It could be a fun and modern take on a traditional symbol,” she says, perfectly suited to ANANNASA’s resortwear aesthetic.
For now, however, the Sarawak-born designer remains focused on growing a brand that reflects her belief that fashion should bring joy, confidence and a sense of adventure.
From the rivers and rainforests of Sarawak to the sun-drenched landscapes of Queensland, Sher Lo’s journey demonstrates how home can continue to inspire, no matter how far one travels.
ANANNASA fashion is available exclusively through its Sarawak stockist, Chez Ratna, at Bormill Estate Commercial Centre, Kuching.
