Thais use the word siwilai (from the English "civilised") to refer to progression and development, moving forward as a culture while keeping a firm grasp on our Siamese roots.
This is embodied in Patent 001, a collaboration between fashion designer Masafumi "Bebetan" Watanabe and the multi-brand concept store Siwilai to mark its fifth anniversary.
Siwilai opened its doors at Central Embassy in May 2014 with a retail concept that marked a shift away from traditional platforms, on which both brands and consumers have more freedom to express their identities.
Its fashion label, along with the Patent 001 collection, debuted last month. The second release will come out tomorrow, and the final pieces in mid-May, to round off the celebrations.
The first partner of a planned annual series, Watanabe is known for infusing streetwear with workwear and classic Americana, injecting a modern feel into classic pieces.
In 2003, he founded Tokyo-based company DLX, which focuses on adult street fashion. Watanabe's experience of different cultures is incorporated into his designs. With a fresh perspective on Thailand, the Japanese designer pays tribute to the country's culture and spirit through the Patent 001 collection, which features varsity jackets, T-shirts, hoodies and sweatshirts, emblazoned with symbolic motifs such as elephants, temples and tuk-tuks.
He also honours traditional garments such as the mo hom, made from locally sourced hand-dyed blue fabrics.
The Siwilai brand name and Watanabe's motto "Paramount Quality" also appear on certain pieces.
Siwilai is on Level 5 of Central Embassy.
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