Last season, Chanita Preechawitayakul pushed the restart button for the Chapter 1 collection that reinforces Senada's commitment to sustainable fashion.
"Sustainability for us has always been a practice, not a campaign or one particular collection," said Chanita, who founded Senada in 1991.
For spring/summer 2023, the Thai fashion house did not follow up with Chapter 2. Nevertheless, the Spring Has Sprung collection was created entirely with sustainably-managed textiles.
The veteran designer experimented with sustainable materials, such as upcycled or biodegradable fabrics, but learned that they don't always meet the brand's benchmark.
"So to ensure quality, we ethically sourced and used non-running textiles that are limited and difficult to find. However, we managed to obtain a variety for this collection," she said.
The variety includes fine cotton, jacquard cotton and cotton blends. Solid or striped, polka dot or floral print, the fabrics are certified by FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), which sets standards for responsible forestry, ethical production and environmentally-conscious actions.
"We explored a more masculine structure to incorporate with our signature feminine details. Throughout the collection, the use of shoulder pads is a key element of a structured silhouette," Chanita said.
Feather and stud embellishments are among handcrafted details, she added, while the colours range from classic tones like black and white to summery hues, such as powder pink and sky blue.
The mix-and-match of fabrics, colours and silhouettes may seem contrasting but blend in seamlessly in the designs.
Bat-wing sleeves spread on a dove-grey dress while slit sleeves are featured in a blue cape maxi dress with a brown bow and crystal-embellished shirt dress.
An asymmetric sleeveless blouse is matched with micro shorts, a gingham bralette top with schoolboy trousers, and jacquard wide sleeves cropped blouse with an asymmetric-wrapped skirt.
Chanita's passion has kept Senada going for three decades. She particularly underlines the craftsmanship involved in making each piece. Alterations and repair services further help maintain the clothes for longer use to promote sustainable fashion.
"It is the love and effort for creating quality pieces that stand the test of time. Craftsmanship is not easily replaceable and it is what we put focus on," she said.
Senada stores are located at Gaysorn Village, Siam Paragon and The Emporium as well as the online store at shop.senadatheory.com.
