Tailors and Clothing

Thailand's Material World

Shopping for clothing and souvenirs in Thailand can be an exotic experience.  Custom tailoring is very affordable, and Thai tailors are very skilled at producing copies of almost any style in a matter of days.  Thai silks and cottons are available in most shopping malls and districts, and more affordable clothing - jeans and t-shirts - can be bought at bargain prices from street vendors.  From Phuket to Bangkok to Chang Mai, tailor shops are ubiquitous and, with relatively inexpensive labour costs, top-quality handmade clothing can be produced at low prices.  A handmade suit will cost anywhere from $100-$400 depending on the style, material, and your own bargaining expertise.  However, discretion should always be used when shopping for suit or dress material since many tailors attempt to pass off inferior quality goods to tourists.  Equally important, make sure you have enough time to go in for at least two fittings.   

Thai Silk

Thai silk is renowned world-wide for its superior quality and eye-catching designs.  Thai silk can be obtained in many local shops in thin two-ply and heavier three-ply arrangements.  Silk is sold by the yard in a range of colors and patterns, and the designs vary from traditional to modern.  A unique style of tie-dyed silk, Mat Mee, can be found in north-east Thailand.  Other popular outlets can be found in Phuket's main shopping areas, Ratsada Road, Montri Road, Yaowarat Road, Phang Nga Road, and Thalang Road.  In Bangkok, Thai silk can be found most anywhere, but try sticking with more established vendors since the quality and authenticity can vary considerably.  Once you have a pattern and color you like, have your tailor custom-design a suit, souvenir, bed cover, or tablecloth.   

Thai Cotton

Thai cotton is very decorative and used for clothing, bedding, scarves, and photo frames, along with a variety of other products.  Sumptuous embroidery and bold designs have helped make Thai cotton a highly valued commodity in many parts of the world.  In particular, cotton with bold, colorful designs and splendid embroidery, typical of the northern region, is extremely impressive.    

Where to Find the Best Tailors

If you’re like most travelers to Thailand, you’ll either originate or end up in Bangkok.  The best tailors are congregated in the Sukhumvit region in the eastern portion of the city.  Shops come in all shapes and sizes, but most of them have negotiable prices and a wide selection of materials from which to choose.  Be wary of deals that are too good to be true.  You get what you pay for.