There seems to be an infinite number of cool places to shop, dine and drink in Bangkok which is why when I visited the Thai capital, I felt like I barely made a dent in terms of exploration. I vowed to enlist a local to find out more great spots, which brings me to Pacharee-Sophie Rogers. Born and raised in Thailand the fashion and jewelry designer knows Bangkok like the back of her hand, and at a young age developed a keen interest for the city’s fabric and weaving industry. Eventually, this interest led her to found Pacharee, a label that draws heavily on the artisan traditions found in Thailand. Today she’s based in Zurich but travels to Bangkok frequently to source for her brand and also enjoy the metropolis. A connoisseur of Bangkok’s fashion, art and food scene, she shared her favorite places with me.
How would you describe Bangkok’s vibe/energy?
Pacharee-Sophie Rogers: Raw, thrilling, honest, warm and authentic — it may seem contradictory but that’s the beauty of Bangkok. Every single memory you have there will be a mix of these five emotions. That includes interactions with people. For example, as you leave the most exquisite temple you’ll see street vendors offering delicious food. They may not understand a word you’re saying but will give you the brightest smile and will try their best to excite you with what they have to offer.
Where do you go to get inspired for collections when you’re in Bangkok?
I often go to Bangkok’s Old Town and Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles for design inspirations. My day would start at the Sathon Pier where I take the local boat bus and watch how the people alongside the rivers live, drawing in the colors I see. I would then get off at Maharaja Pier, grab a coffee at Tha Maharaj as I make my way to the museum. I typically ask my mother to join, as my inspirations often come from the folklore she shares from her childhood memories along the river.
What are your favorite places to source fabric?
For fabric sourcing inspiration I always attend OTOP Fair which happens once a year in Bangkok. That’s where I would meet with different villagers across the country as they showcase their lovely products. I also travel to a small village in Sakon Nakorn and Korat to work with dye masters and weavers. The bonus of traveling out there includes amazing northeastern food and local fare hosted by the city’s largest temple.
What’s unique about the fabric craftsmanship in Thailand?
The heart and soul the weavers put into every single step of the process. It is such a personal journey they take, their love and creativity really shine through every inch of the fabric and you can really connect with it.
The closeness of the family and communities in Thailand also contributes to the uniqueness of the fabrics. They are so proud of the knowledge and skills that are so specific to the local areas. This adds the diversity in terms of texture and prints across Thai fabrics as well.
What are your top five places to shop in Bangkok?
1. OTOP Fair
If you can make it to the OTOP fair or happen to be there during this time (typically the last few weeks of December) do visit. This is where you can find the most wonderful fabrics, crafts, jewelry and so much more. This, to me, is the best shopping experience as you can connect with the creators and hear their stories.
2. Chatuchak (Weekend Market)
I believe this is the largest outdoor market in the world. It can be quite intense but it makes for one of the most fun shopping experiences. Only open on Saturday and Sunday, you should plan ahead (visit their website, they have clear zoning info) and bring a big shopping bag.
(This is a great alternative for the OTOP fair as you can get some regional products there)
3. Lhong 1919
This is a 19th-century Chinese mansion recently restored and converted into a lovely shopping, dining and recreation space. You can find a small selection of arts and crafts shops in this charming space by the river. Lotus Art de Vivre is my favorite.
4. Exotique
Inside the mall Siam Paragon visit Exotique for lovely skin care items such as organic herbal soaps and essential oils. My favorite local brand is Panpuri. Their lotus essence oil is so lovely. While you are there, check out the Gourmet Market for a wonderful Thai snacks section to bring back home.
5. Siwilai
This is a treasure trove of fashion and lifestyle brands, as well as a print media and vinyl library, and a beauty lab.
What’s your favorite spot to relax in the city?
I love exploring new restaurants and bars, especially the ones the new generation of Bangkokians have opened around the Old Town. Riva Arun hotel has a lovely restaurant and rooftop bar. Bar wise, Chinatown has a few good ones including Asian Today and Tep Bar.
My husband and I spend a lot of time sourcing specialty Thai coffee for our latest project KAFFAIR so coffeeshop-hopping is our ritual in Bangkok. I like to sit at Boyy and Son Café or Gallery Drip Café for a great cup of specialty Thai coffee as I meet my clients or draw up new designs.
If someone is visiting Bangkok for the first time what should they bring home with them?
Thai specialty coffee and a beautiful hand-woven natural dye silk or cotton scarf. Hand-woven Thai fabrics last forever, make an immediate impression and are so special.
