The Hot Thai Labels And Stores To Check Out When You're In Bangkok

HIDE
“Located in Ari, HIDE is a multi-label store retailing many famous edgy, unique and affordable unisex fashion brands. These include VirginX, I Am Water and their very own in-house brand, H . BY H I D E. The store is owned by a friendly couple, Tao and Fang, and I love how they present the clothes in their store as if they were from their own collection. The charm of the atmosphere, the well-curated garments and the owners’ warmth will make you stay longer beyond your shopping trip,” shares Bunnag.

BLACKDOG
Having been around for almost a decade, Blackdog continues to surprise with its unexpected take on fashion. Designs are quirky and unabashedly colourful, and the designers often explore new proportions and interesting pattern mixes to create entirely new propositions. From knitted vegetable tops to frilly gowns that bank big on camp, you’ll never know what you might find at Blackdog.

BLULAGOON
Bunnag shares: “Blulagoon can be found on the second floor of Lido Connect in Siam Square. This cute little joint believes in slow fashion and creating a loving community for the environment. You can easily identify the storefront from its vibrant blue facade and once you go inside, you’ll feel like you’re in a small beachside souvenir shop with sounds of the ocean. Blulagoon carries swimwear brands like The Apple Buns, which makes swimsuits from recycled fabric, and Try by Yorata. There are also lifestyle brands such as Notep Store and Issarapap. With too many handmade accessories, vintage clothing pieces and cute knitted tops to count, do make sure to make a stop here before your next beach getaway.”

LANDMEE
If the words “over the top” and “girly pop” best describe your style, then this is a must-see brand. Landmee’s designs go big on the camp and kitsch, but they do it in a way that’s fun and still completely tasteful. Expect things like frilly maxis, lace blouses, embroidered bra tops and jeans with heart-shaped cut-outs as you peruse their pieces.

MITR
Mitr is best known for its resortwear and for their use of organic cotton and flattering cuts. Shoppers will also love how they are game to mix and match different feminine details with bold patterns to create unique, eyecatching pieces. The brand has also launched its upcycling project Kalyana By Mitr, transforming fabric waste from their main brand into fun crafts.

LICK AND PROMISE
Those looking for sustainable fashion can look to Lick and Promise, which uses selected deadstock cotton. “It’s a fun, outgoing brand perfect for dinner parties, and rest assured you’ll manage to stand out in their eccentric pieces,” adds Bunnag.

LEISURE PROJECTS
It’s not just the girls that get to have fun, because Bangkok has a few menswear gems to offer. One of them is Leisure Projects, and the vibe here is “city boy goes to the beach”. There are obvious tropical influences (see: crochet tops, ’90s-inspired boardshorts, tie-dye tank tops and so on), but they are done in a way that’s interesting and unexpected. For example, a suit gets a coastal refresh with seashells embroidered, whilst camp-collared shirts and wide-legged trousers all come in flashy beachwear-inspired patterns.

PENNY PINCHER
Another recommendation from Bunnag is Pennyy Pincher. Bunnag says: “A womenswear brand that creates a sense of artistic femininity with minimal silhouettes. They experiment with male and female silhouettes to produce an inspiring and harmonious collection. I love matching their pieces with oversized jeans and a belt for a bold semi-formal look.”

STRETSIS
Girls who are on the hunt for special, dressier pieces, take note of Sretsis. Known for their youthful and trendy designs, expect plenty of pastel hues, romantic details and hand-applied embroidery. Dresses are the brand’s speciality here, with swingy mini frocks topped with giant poppy flowers, or midi-length numbers in frothy layers of lace and silk.

VIRGINX
According to Bunnag, “For a well-curated selection of chic formal wear, look no further than VirginX. The brand has successfully influenced Thai women to style more blazers and work pants into their daily outfits. Even Blackpink’s Lisa has worn their Bronze pants. The quality is also exceptional for a ready-to-wear brand.”

PLAIN JAYNE
Last but certainly not least, Plain Jayne was created by Patraporn Bunnag, who says that “contrary to popular belief, the name doesn’t come from the famous A$AP Ferg song”. Instead, Bunnag tells us that the goal of the brand “is to represent every woman, and we believe that all of us are plain Jaynes at heart, cut from the same cloth, treading down our individual paths. As a result, we try to subvert stereotypes by encouraging women to be more comfortable in their skin. We customise certain products with our tailors so that you’re able to get quality, neat clothing that complements your body whatever size you may be.”
Here, easy everyday separates reign supreme. Heat-busting camisole tops, loose blouses and cute shorts are all on hand to shod customers who are looking for easy, off-duty ‘fits that aren’t sloppy either. Our favourite? The signature boyfriend-fit shirts that can be dressed up or down with ease.
This story first appeared in Harper's Bazaar Singapore