Chud Thai takes centre stage at Tokyo National Museum

The Ministry of Culture in Thailand brought the rich tradition of Chud Thai to the Tokyo National Museum, emphasizing the evolving nature of this cultural heritage. The "CHUD THAI: Knowledge, Craftsmanship and Practices of the Thai National Costume" exhibition took place on September 17-18 at the museum's Hyokeikan building. The event featured discussions by experts on Thai arts and textiles, including Assistant Professor Dr Anucha Teerakanont and Piyawara Teekara Netnoy.

The exhibition showcased all eight styles of Chud Thai, known as the "royal" Thai dresses. These royal dresses, designed and tailored by Tirapan and Pha fashion houses, were the star attractions. Additionally, a kimono worn by Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, made from mudmee silk produced by the SUPPORT Foundation, was on display.

Visitors could also enjoy demonstrations of traditional Thai craftsmanship, including ancient jewelry making, gold-thread wrapping and embroidery, silver and gold craftsmanship, traditional gold-leaf textile techniques, and auspicious-pattern silk weaving.

The organizers presented these crafts as contemporary design forms rooted in artistic structures, rather than merely historical artifacts. This approach highlighted Thai craftsmanship as a living heritage that can continue to evolve and develop. A highlight of the exhibition was the Ruean Ton-style Chud Thai from Montratikarn Studio, modelled by Opal Suchata Chuangsri.

The pale-yellow dress featured a sarong adorned with hand-embroidered Sailor Moon motifs instead of printed designs, blending Thai and Japanese cultural elements. The fashion house also presented textiles with Hello Kitty and Shiba Inu patterns, incorporating Japanese cultural symbols into the exhibition.