Retail

When every Asava collection drops, shoppers arrive in droves to buy the new designs by Polpat Asavaprapha, one of Thailand’s leading fashion figures. Asava’s founder and creative director has drawn on his experience with major US labels to build a fashion empire in Thailand. He even added a dining destination into his business mix in 2015. Asavaprapha’s ambition to gently drive his brands is clear in the fastidious construction of the clothing. He is also behind the chic blouses and scarves of Bangkok Airways.

Chnanon Sachdev has done the seemingly impossible with Pronto Denim, transferring the grit of heritage denim into numerous Bangkok malls. In fact, Sachdev has managed it so well that the business is considered one of the world’s most successful purveyors of raw denim. His shops display tasteful vintage items, while a team of denim aficionados add to the atmosphere. You’ll find more than just US brands here: denim from Japan includes The Flat Head, Iron Heart and Pure Blue Japan.

Japanese brand Beams, established in 1976, has transported its tasteful take on everyday clothes for men and women south to the EmQuartier complex in Bangkok. Shop at the label’s first outpost in Southeast Asia for its casual clothing, accessories and footwear across a space fitted out with dark wood, stone and glass. These calm, clean surroundings are analogous to the Tokyo fashion company’s reputation for impeccable attention to detail and friendly customer service.

Even if you’re not planning to take a stack of vinyl home, ZudRangMa makes a worthy excursion for both music aficionados and the more casual culture fan. It’s a vintage record shop where you’ll discover the best in Thai music dating from the 1950s to early 1980s. From funk-influenced molam (traditional storytelling) to luk kreung and luk thung Thai folk music, there’s an eclectic and well-considered collection to choose from – handpicked by globe-trotting owner, musician and DJ Maft Sai. 

Most records are sourced from Bangkok’s Chinatown, night markets and the private collections of ex-DJs. Seek out special compilations from the tasteful in-house team or amuse yourself by leafing through the deeply stacked rows of rare vinyl that’s shelved ceiling-high.

Luxury womenswear brand Senada Theory showcases bright and unique prints created in Thailand, with imported, quality fabrics. At the flagship shop in the Siam Center, visitors will find striking designer collaborations with international talents such as Italian jewellery designer Riccardo Goti.  Senada’s sophisticated offerings are designed by founder Chanita Preechawitayakul. Her past in biochemistry was overtaken by her passion for design 20 years ago; she ditched the lab coat to start sketching up her dream dresses.