Thai Designer Brands – Bangkok’s Where To Shop

Thailand is the perfect destination to get away for a girl’s trip. For female business travelers from around Asia especially, the Land of Smiles presents a unique opportunity to combine business with pleasure – attending client meetings, and then kicking back for a few extra days of spa treatments, shopping and cocktails.

The word is quickly spreading about Bangkok as a versatile weekend escape, where ladies can recharge their batteries however they desire – whether it’s getting pampered, partying the night away or a little bit of both.

Story by Luxury Society Asia Team 

Here are our best recommendations on how women can spend a few luxurious days in the City of Angels:

Thai Designers

There’s no denying that you can lose a lot of closet space by spending a few days shopping in Bangkok. Handcraftsmanship and embroidery have a long history in the Land of Smiles, and today that tradition is carried on by a new era of Thai womenswear designers doing creative, inspired work. Buying from them is not only indulgent, but an investment: these are garments of the highest quality and artistry, built to cherish for years to come.

Thailand’s most respected couture brand is probably Kai, created by designer Somchai “Kai” Kaewthong. Dubbed the Vera Wang of Thailand, his wedding gowns and cocktail dresses are always the epitome of elegance.

Disaya

Disaya also does eveningwear, but with more playful, dainty tones. Creative director Disaya Sorakraikitikul trained in showrooms in London and Paris, including some time with the one and only John Galliano. Besides ready-to-wear dresses, Disaya also sells lingerie and costume jewelry.

The couture house of Kai also does fresh, elegant eveningwear, Kloset’s designs are over-the-top and theatrical. Designer Mollika Ruangkritya counts dolls and girly playthings among her inspirations. Her pieces are known to always be vibrant in colour and intricate in detail, with handicraft accents like lace nets, low gauge knits and ribbon tape.

Founded in 2011, Lovebird is one of the newest Thai brands to explode onto the scene, boasting cuts and shapes that are sexy and classic.

Kem Issara’s brand is also fairly new, but already making history in Thai fashion. The New York-trained designer is known for sophisticated, contemporary pieces that translate flawlessly from day to night.

Sretsis’ overtly feminine outfits are all over Hollywood’s red carpet, and you may have even seen them on Beyonce and Katy Perry. Despite international success, the sister team behind Sretsis is still headquartered in Bangkok with shops in Gaysorn and Central Embassy.

Mob F and It’s Happened to be a Closet are also good stores to check out if you’re looking for vintage pieces or to pick and choose from various Thai designers.

Bangkok’s also spoiled rotten with skilled tailors and seamstresses, who can create and alter any garment to perfection. Metta Thonglor, POEM, Vvon Sugunnasil, Tailor on Ten and Narin Couture are all highly recommended.