A big meeting in Bangkok took place between October 12 and 18 when the World Bank & IMF (The International Money Fund) met at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.
Thailand was hosting this meeting for the very first time since 1991 and now, 35 years later, Thailand got the opportunity to present itself as an economic and financial centre in Asia.
The official theme was “Thailand’s New Horizons: Empowering People, Building Resilience.” This important meeting brought together thousands of people from all the world; Finance ministers, Government and international organization representatives, economists and academics and representatives from the civil society, not to forget media.
The focus was the global economy. The security arrangements were immense as such a large number of international delegations were gathering.
In connection with this important international meeting, a special initiative was created to place Thai culture firmly on the world stage. Designers from all participating countries (92) were invited to take part in the project.
Each designer was given the opportunity to create a garment using black Thai silk, while also incorporating a fabric from their own country, creating a unique fusion of Thai and international design.
The choice of black Thai silk was deeply symbolic. Black was chosen as a mark of respect and mourning, honoring the immensely beloved Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, as well as the recently deceased Princess Bajrakityabha, who sadly passed away after spending several years in coma.
The project was therefore not only a celebration of international fashion and creativity, but also a tribute to two much-loved members of the Thai Royal Family and to the rich cultural heritage of Thailand.
Representing Sweden was one of the country’s most beloved and respected designers, Göran Alfredsson.
For many years, Göran has dressed women of the Swedish Royal Family, as well as prominent women in Stockholm’s society and Swedish government ministers. His atelier, THALIA, located at Östermalm/Stockholm, has for decades been the natural destination for women looking for something truly special when a wedding, a Royal banquet or the Nobel festivities were approaching.
With his long-standing reputation for exquisite craftmanship and timeless elegance, Göran was a natural choice to represent Sweden in this international celebration of fashion, culture and Thai silk.
Göran has also taken part in THE THAI SILK WAY, the special annual fashion show organized by Khun Edward Kitti, President of the Association of Thai silk and culture Promotions and organizer of the annual “Celebration of Silk-Thai Silk Road to the world” fashion event, which has become a major celebration of Thai silk and international fashion. Khun Edward is a Thai fashion and modelling-industry professional. He grew up in Singapore and the United States before returning to Thailand in the 1990s. He has long experience in the modelling industry and he is a well-respected icon in Asia.
Göran’s participation in this project was particularly fitting, as Göran is fluent in Thai and has enjoyed a long and very close relationship with Thailand, visiting the country frequently over the years. His genuine appreciation and understanding of Thai culture and craftmanship bring added dimension to his involvement in this international initiative.
At 1:30 p.m., guests began arriving at The Living Hall on the third floor of Siam Paragon on Monday the 12th.
Khun Edward Kitty and his team welcomed a large number of ambassadors and their partners, together with many other distinguished guests. Our Swedish Ambassador, H.E. Anna Hammargren, attended accompanied by her husband Henrik.
On the 92 garments exhibited across two floors, six selected creations were brought to life on live models. Before the fashion presentation began, guests were treated to a performance of traditional Thai dance.
The dancers wore costumes designed by Khun Theeraphan Wannarat, Thailand’s 2019 National Artist in Visual Art (Fashion Design), presented by the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles.
As a global landmark, Siam Paragon is committed to presenting the very best of Thailand to the world. Alongside world-class shopping and lifestyle experiences, it provides a space that brings together Thai Heritage, Creativity, and Global Experience to create lasting impressions and deliver Extraordinary Experiences for visitors.
Through this initiative, Siam Paragon also helps showcase Bangkok and Thailand as global destinations rich in culture, creativity, and truly distinctive charm.
It is not surprising that a trip to Thailand is often at the top of people’s wish lists. Name something you cannot find in Thailand-snow, for example. But over the past few days, at least many of us here have experienced hail, and that is no small thing. Thailand is a country that never ceases to surprise!
