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Love trying new beauty products? That’s no surprise. Asians seem to be adventurous consumers; the ever-curious, regional kind of clientele who have wholeheartedly embraced beauty practices from around the globe. Think of the popularity of K-Beauty brands such as Innisfree and The Face Shop. Or the avidity with which people flock to Sephora for Kylie’s latest drop or Rhode’s peptide treatment. But lately there’s been a new contender to the scene: Thai beauty.
The skincare and cosmetic product sector in Thailand is among the largest in the Southeast Asian region. Leading export destinations include the Philippines and Vietnam, with demand mostly powered by viral Internet trends and social media influencers. In fact, Instagram has been identified as the most popular social media platform for influencer marketing within the fashion and beauty industry.
What’s interesting about the Thai approach to beauty is that it focuses mostly on skincare. Among its market segments, skincare takes its rightful crown as the most significant, with 60% of the billion dollar industry focusing on a holistic approach of “skin.”
Aside from the usual array of moisturisers and toners, Thai skincare also offers products such as powders, collagen drinks, and inhalers. Popularities for their soaps and mud masks have become so that in the Philippines, Thai brands such as Oxecure and Snail White have become common drugstore favourites.
This ties in perfectly with the current trends that Thai makeup artists have observed: the Thai makeup that used to place emphasis on looks that completely revamp the face is now seeing more natural finishes on celebrities and influencers. Instead of dramatic looks, a natural glow is preferred and made possible through proper moisturisation. Online, people have even commented that the Thai makeup look mimics a more elevated version of the “clean girl” aesthetic, where it elevates natural assets while staying effortless and casual.
Unfortunately, there is still the misconstrued notion that fairer skin equals more beautiful, so plenty of Thai products focus on promises that include brightening and radiance. It’s not unusual to see products with buzzwords such as “Bright,” “White,” or “Milky.”
An interesting trend follows wherein hair care becomes the second-most significant segment in the market, with a 20% share. This becomes obvious when one sees how Thai women treasure their long, silky locks and dark, feathery brows. Say goodbye to the overplucked eyebrow trend of the 90s and turn your head towards the love of lush hair.
And while makeup and fragrances take up less of the market share than others, with 14% and 6% respectively, there’s no doubt that people continue to look to Thailand for direction when it comes to beauty and fashion. Many popular Thai celebrities, like Blackpink’s Lisa and actress Aum Patchrapa Chaichua, have helped to position the country as one to watch out for when it comes to beauty, and rightfully so might we add.
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Hermès is elevating its customers’ shopping experience in Thailand, as the French luxury fashion house has recently reopened its store at the Central Embassy in Bangkok, boasting a sleek and elegant design that shoppers will truly love.
The renovated store, now twice its original size, offers a blend of contemporary vibe and Bangkok’s traditional architecture with its abundant bamboo formations and curvilinear structure, which stands out with a champagne-colored façade.
Spread across two floors, the store also highlights the brand’s craftsmanship with its wood screens, locally crafted carpets, vivid tones, and stunning displays and furniture, envisioned by the Parisian architecture agency RDAI.
At the store, customers can explore the label’s collections, such as its beauty and fragrances range, fashion jewelry, women’s and men’s ready-to-wear clothing pieces, and footwear items, displayed in various areas.
To top it off, a diverse selection of artwork from the Émile Hermès collection likewise decorates the store, including horse sculptures in skeletal wire formations by French sculptor Marie Christophe, geometric abstract illustrations by French artist Cécile Baillot-Jourdan, and French photographer Tadzio's photo of a graceful dancer in stark black and white.
The revamped Hermès store is located at Levels G&1 in Central Embassy and is open from 10 AM to 8 PM daily. For more information, visit Hermès’ website.
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One Bangkokis the ultimate new destination that is garnering all the attention right now. This groundbreaking development promises to transform the Thai real estate scene, redefine urban living, and become “The Heart of Bangkok.” With a vision to provide unprecedented lifestyle experiences, it also aims to contribute significantly to Thailand’s economic progress.
Nestled in the heart of the bustling intersection of Wireless Road and Rama IV Road, One Bangkok is more than just a premier retail and lifestyle shopping destination. This expansive mega-development reimagines urban living andcombines shopping, dining, workspaces, and leisure all in one place.It also boasts five office towers, five hotels, and three residential towers, making it a complete urban ecosystem.
In addition to being an entertainment hub, One Bangkok features an inspiring art loop — a vibrant space for art enthusiasts and a daily source of inspiration. It brings together exceptional art and cultural programs, weaving creativity seamlessly into the fabric of everyday life.
So, what makes One Bangkok stand out from other shopping malls in the city? Here are the key highlights you should know and what you can find there:
Beautiful Backdrops and Instagrammable Spots
Facebook/One Bangkok
One Bangkok is truly a sprawling marvel, offering an array of picturesque spots just waiting for you to capture them. While every corner is Instagram-worthy, there are a few standout spots that you shouldn’t miss out for your picture-perfect snap.
Outdoor Spaces: Nestled within the urban city center is this Urban Park at One Bangkok, a beautifully landscaped green area featuring trees, lawns, and gardens. Make your move to the 5th floor, where you can snap breathtaking photos with stunning city views as your backdrop.
The STOREYS: This dynamic zone is the perfect destination for those looking to engage with cool interactive installations. The Interactive X Cat Radio space, themed around music, provides an exciting opportunity for memorable photos.
One Content Store: Step inside this duplex bookstore to discover an immersive photobooth experience, guaranteed to elevate your picture-taking game.
What to Do at One Bangkok
Retail Therapy
One Bangkok
If you're looking to shop, you'll find plenty of options with over 900 fashion and lifestyle brands available. Explore three unique retail experiences: Parade, THE STOREYS, and POST 1928. Each space is designed with its own distinct theme to enhance your shopping adventure.
Parade: Embracing the concept of “A World of Choice Without Limits,” Parade spans nine floors. This dynamic space isn't just for shopping; it’s where you can play, work, and savor delightful meals. It features the first stores of Thailand's leading brands, coupled with an exciting array of restaurants, cozy cafes, and fresh grocery options that cater to every palate.
THE STOREYS: Under the vibrant theme “Tell Your Own Story at THE STOREYS,” this creative space spreads across five floors and showcases a curated selection of trendy fashion and lifestyle stores infused with contemporary local culture. Visitors can explore fascinating shops and unique concept stores, as well as enjoy a variety of restaurants, bars, and bistros.
POST 1928: One Bangkok brings the concept of “Go Beyond Luxury” to life resembling Bangkok's historic shopping street with a dynamic luxury shopping experience. It features a remarkable collection of world-class fashion brands, exquisite luxury watches, and fine jewelry, alongside cutting-edge streetwear. Some of the concept stores include King Power City Boutique, Jim Thompson, Skechers, Norse x Bit.Studio, Club21, and more. Moreover, there are Thailand’s largest flagship stores, such as Swatch, Muji, Nitori, Ari Football, New Era, Urban Revivo, and many more to come.
Green Spaces
Facebook/ One Bangkok
One Bangkok prioritizes green living by dedicating 50% of its area to lush parks, beautiful gardens, and inviting pet-friendly spaces on both rooftops and at ground level. With over 50 rai of open spaces, it seamlessly connects Lumpini Park and Benjakitti Park, creating a vibrant oasis in the heart of the city.
Endless Entertainment
Facebook/One Ultra Screens
Live Concerts: Enjoy performances by celebrity artists every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
One Ultra Screen: Film enthusiasts can watch movies in a luxurious theater and sign up for the Exclusive Cinema Club.
Bangkok Wonder: Unwind at a relaxing after-work hangout spot in a semi-outdoor green area, complemented by a new all-day dining destination.
MEGA HarborLand
Harbourland Group
Adventurous souls will find excitement in this new indoor playground, which spans over 6,000 square meters. Inspired by the enchanting Himmapan Forest, this unique space brings to life the beauty and mythical creatures of Thai legend under the captivating theme "Onederland," seamlessly connecting the human world with a fantastical realm.
Some of the highlights of Harborland include the 6-story Harbour Skyscraper, the Sky Monorail (an aerial pedaling ride), and the LED Spider Tower, which boasts a 7-meter slide with illuminated rings. It also features Thailand’s first glow-in-the-dark shooting arena, Sisyfox Jumping (an interactive jumping game), and a Little Ville & Toys Room designed for toddlers.
Restaurant and Dining
Facebook/ Mitsukoshi Depachika Thailand
There are more than250 restaurant options, including food stalls, fine-dining establishments, rooftop bars, and hangout spots, featuring cuisines from Thailand and around the globe. Additionally, it hosts Thailand’s first-ever Mitsukoshi Depachika, where you can grab your favorite Japanese delights and enjoy the exquisite food hall experience.
O Sarapad Thai
Facebook/Sarapad Thai
This unique retail space is dedicated to showcasing the finest Thai design and craftsmanship. The store offers a diverse range of products, including traditional Thai handicrafts, stylish homeware, contemporary lifestyle accessories, fashion items, toys, and food products. Each item is thoughtfully created by skilled Thai designers and artisans.
How to get there: If you’re taking public transport, then you can get down at MRT Lumphini. Or, if you’re taking a Grab or Bolt, then pick the Parade, THE STOREYS, and One Bangkok Forum.
Location: One Bangkok, Witthayu Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330
Operating Hours: 10 AM to 10 PM daily
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Renowned fashion brand URBAN REVIVO (UR) is opening their largest store in Thailand this December.
Following the successful launch of its new artistic conceptual store in Bangkok in November 2024, the fashion brand is moving to open their largest store in Thailand at One Bangkok Mall on Dec. 6, 2024.
URBAN REVIVO
URBAN REVIVO’s newest space will be joined by its sister brand BENLAI, debuting its first overseas store in Thailand on Dec. 10, 2024. Both openings promise interactive experiences and tasteful gifts for customers for their never-ending support.
Richard Tang, the CEO of URBAN REVIVO’s International Business, said that BENLAI’s introduction to the Thai market was a noteworthy development. With URBAN REVIVO focusing on creating fashion-forward pieces, and BENLAI emphasizing providing comfort, the two brands create a complementing variety under Fashion Momentum Group (FMG).
URBAN REVIVO is a global brand that elevates affordable fashion with its creative, high-quality, and sustainable designs. Rivaling brands in the west, UR delivers the latest runway-inspired ready-to-wear (RTW) trends at affordable prices.
BENLAI, on the other hand, redefines casual wear with functionality and sustainable fabrics. Comfort and style go together at BENLAI, with their products seamlessly ranging from leisure to outdoor activities.
For more information and updates, you can find URBAN REVIVO on their website here, or follow them on Facebook, or Instagram.
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Are you a local looking for a unique experience or a tourist craving an authentic cultural escape? Luxury Thai silk house Jim Thompsonhas officially launched its first Lifestyle Store at the prestigious One Bangkok, and it's calling your name.
"This new store aligns with Jim Thompson's mission to offer our customers an immersive shopping experience that combines a wide range of products, dining options, and cultural experiences. This opening marks another milestone in our transformation journey to become Asia's first global lifestyle brand," Frank Cancelloni, Group CEO at Jim Thompson, said.
Spanning 550 sq. m. with a chic duplex design, this concept store has been transformed into a luxurious and immersive retail experience. Imagine high-end shopping, a touch of culinary indulgence, and a deep dive into Thailand’s rich silk heritage, all under one stylish roof.
The store is divided into distinct zones, including a Silk Exhibition that takes you on a fascinating journey through the history of Jim Thompson’s iconic fabrics.
Instagram/ Jim Thompson
Savor local bites from Jim’s Terrace, the brand’s first-ever integrated dining concept, and sip expertly crafted drinks while soaking in lush views of One Bangkok and The Wireless House—a nod to Thailand’s first telegraph station, which has been remade into a modern contemporary display.
Instagram/ Jim Thompson
In classic Jim Thompson style, walls of the interior are dressed in luxurious silk yarns, gleaming metallic cinnabar mirror accents, and fabrics from the Jim Thompson Home Furnishings collection.
To find out, visit Jim Thompson’s website, or follow them on Instagram.
Location:Jim Thompson Lifestyle Store, GF, One Bangkok, The Storeys, Bangkok.
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URBAN REVIVO is back and better than ever! The renowned fashion brand is reopening its revamped store at ICONSIAM on Nov. 9, 2024, inviting customers to join the celebration.
Urban Revivo, known for its creative, high-quality, and eco-friendly designs, is set to elevate affordable high fashion with this unique store renovation. This reopening promises an exciting experience as customers get a firsthand look at the upgraded store and its fresh offerings.
Courtesy of URBAN REVIVO
The new design features a striking artistic installation themed “Growing,” inspired by the orchid—a symbol deeply rooted in Thai culture, which represents luxury and rarity. The flower motif reflects URBAN REVIVO’s commitment to connecting with the local community.
And the revamped store is not just a shopping destination, as it has been envisioned as an urban art center. With beautifully designed arches adding visual interest and softer lighting creating a welcoming ambiance, the space invites visitors to linger and explore.
The grand reopening will showcase the innovative theme “Fashion Station,” which playfully positions URBAN REVIVO as a fashion train that has just arrived at ICONSIAM, encouraging customers to pause while they discover latest fashion trends. Attendees will enjoy special commemorative gifts and the chance to snap IG-worthy photos at the “Fashion Station” installation.
For more information, find URBAN REVIVO on their website here, or follow them on Facebook, or Instagram.
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Are you a design house, an established independent designer, or an aspiring talent eager to launch your label? Or perhaps you’re simply looking to witness contemporary, cutting-edge designs on a professional runway?
Thailand Fashion Week is taking place from Nov. 29 to 30, 2024, at Benedict Studio from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, offering an unforgettable fashion experience.
Photo by Tanik Prasopsorn | Courtesy of Thailand Fashion Week 2024
The bi-annual international trade runway show brings a thrilling lineup of runway presentations, exhibitions, and activities, welcoming designers of all sizes and attracting thousands of fashion enthusiasts from the region and beyond.
It is one of the largest fashion events in the Land of the Golden Temple, showcasing immense global appeal.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, when the Spring-Summer '25 Couture collection from global design houses will take center stage on the official runway in Bangkok, starting at 12:00 PM.
Photo by Chungkang University | Courtesy of Thailand Fashion Week 2024
This date also features a host of other shows throughout the day, including the Avant-Garde Spring-Summer '25 collection, promising to be a highlight of the event, and the SS25 Gen-Next Show on Nov.29 and 30. The Gen-Next Show
will feature fresh talent from university graduates and brands under 2 years old as well as Fashion Academies, offering a unique opportunity for international exposure.
Tickets for the SS25 show are now available. You can grab yours here. Additionally, designer applications for Thailand Fashion Week SS25 are still open, but quickly filling up, so make sure to act fast! Designers can register here to sign up as a designer and receive your invitation to the show.
For more information, visit their website, or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).
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When you look up things to do in Bangkok, almost instantly shopping
comes up on top of the list. The city is packed with hundreds of markets and massive shopping malls that cater to all kinds of shoppers’ needs and preferences, making it a prime shopping destination.
If you’re visiting for the first time, it can get overwhelming with so many options. On one side is a plaza with hundreds of stalls selling local fashion wear and right next to it is a mall with a Louis Vuitton. It’s a cacophony of shops and boutiques, providing travelers with a fascinating mix of contrast and variety.
From shopping malls with luxury
brands to night markets where you can find cheap eats and local designs, we’re listing down some of the most popular shopping hubs in the city.
Quick travel tip: Many of the popular shopping malls offer free tourist or privilege cards that give discounts. Make sure to have your passports on you and check with information counters before shopping.
Siam Paragon
Photo from Flickr/by Mark Fisher
If you’ve got cash to burn, Siam Paragon is more than happy to accommodate you with its massive eight-floor structure filled with over 250 shops, dining spots, and entertainment hubs. And when we say entertainment, we’re not just talking about its multiplex cinema and IMAX theater, but also the bowling alley, karaoke rooms, fitness clubs, and spa. There’s also Paragon Hall, which hosts regular events such as concerts and conferences, and Sea Life Bangkok on the basement floor. Imagine shopping atop a massive underground aquarium!
More than the entertainment activities it offers, you can find most high-end fashion brands on the mezzanine floor from Hermes, Prada, and Versace to Loius Vuitton, Dior, and Gucci.
The mall also has an expansive Department Store that sells just about everything you can think of including clothing, cosmetics, electronics, homeware, stationery, and children’s toys. You can also find antiques, Thai handicrafts, and home décor items on the fourth floor.
On the other hand, fast fashion brands like H&M and Zara can be found on the first floor. The mall also has a Kinokuniya bookstore for all your bookish needs, as well as various dining options.
You can learn more about the mall’s establishments here.
Another fantastic shopping destination for those looking to splurge on their trip is EmQuartier, a colossal shopping complex dubbed as the fashion mecca of Bangkok. This mall houses some of the world's most well-known luxury houses from your MK’s down to your Dolce’s, and is part of the multi-billion retail project comprised of three malls: EmQuartier, Emporium, and EmSphere.
The mall boasts epic architectural designs and is divided into three realms: the Helix Quartier, the Waterfall Quartier, and the Glass Quartier. You can be sure that’s more than enough space to lose yourself in a shopping spree. This lavish establishment boasts a sky garden, an eight-theater cinema complex and IMAX theater, and six stories of dining terraces. If that wasn’t impressive enough, it also has a stunning indoor waterfall that’s over 40 meters tall!
This is one shopping adventure you won’t want to miss. Check out the mall’s shop directory here.
What sets this massive shopping center apart is its unique design. The travel-themed shopping complex contains nine floors, each designed based on the concept of famous shopping streets. You’ll find that they’re decorated with replicas and images from these cities, so it feels like you’re shopping around the world; along London’s Oxford Street or even Paris’ Champs-Élysées.
The mall houses a range of shops from high-end to mid-range brands, both local and international. It also has small food outlets and a Gourmet market, along with a gym and a supermarket.
Terminal 21 is conveniently located at the heart of Sukhumvit Road next to the Asoke intersection. It has a walkway access from BTS Asoke station and the luxurious Grande Centre Point Hotel, which is one of the most affordable 5-star accommodations in the area.
When we say this mall is big, we really mean it! Central World is Thailand’s biggest shopping mall and is included in the top 10 in the world! It was originally the World Trade Center before being renovated into a shopping complex in 2006. Central World houses hundreds of stores, restaurants, cafes, and fifteen cinemas, making it the prime entertainment and shopping destination in Bangkok.
Additionally, the mall has two department stores, a kid’s zone, and an indoor ice skating rink. It’s important to note that the mall has an emphasis on international brands so if you’re looking for local designs, this may not be the place. However, Central World also hosts a night market right outside where you can find delicious Thai food and bargain items.
Location: Central World, 999/9 Rama I Rd, Khwaeng Pathum Wan, Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330
Open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM
Chatuchak Weekend Market
The largest of its kind in the world, this is the place to be for bargainfashionfinds. Covering more than 11 hectares, the market boasts over 15,000 stalls within 27 sections filled with art, clothing, souvenirs, vintage finds, home goods, and more! This place is huge so make sure you have your comfortable shoes on and be prepared for a long day of walking!
If you get hungry along the way, the market houses various food stalls where you can experience authentic Thai food for a good price. And don’t worry about shopping too much, because there are various courier services available that can ship your items overseas.
The market is only open on weekends but if your itinerary doesn’t include a weekend, Chatuchak is also open on Friday nights from 6 PM 'til midnight. Expect a scaled-back version though as most of the stalls remain closed on Friday nights. Art lovers, however, would find Friday nights the best time to visit because they can enjoy the market’s art section without the usual crowds.
Make the most of your visit by checking out our guide here.
Locals have deemed this night market the most accessible and convenient one. The Ratchada Train Market, which was known for its iconic colorful tents used to be the go-to place for locals and tourists but when the pandemic hit, businesses were forced to shut down. When Thailand re-opened its borders, the organizers relocated, revamped, and renamed the market Jodd Fairs.
Although the market has lost its colorful roofs; it got an upgrade in terms of quality. Most of the stalls in the previous Ratchada are still up and running, and a lot of new vendors have also joined the mix. The market has an eclectic mix of over 600 stalls
selling a wide range of items from trendy fashion pieces to unique handicrafts.
More than a shopper’s paradise, you won’t ever go hungry in Bangkok’s night markets with the wide selection of food stalls and restaurants available. You can also enjoy a few drinks at the bars offering live music performances.
Location: Jodd Fairs, Rama IX Rd, Huai Khwang, Bangkok 10310
Open daily from 4 PM to 12 AM
Srinakarin Train Night Market
Photo from Website/Rod's Antiques
This is Bangkok’s original and popular train night market run by the same organizers of Jodd Fairs. Remember we mentioned how the old Ratchada Train Market relocated after the pandemic? Well, Srinakarin has taken over it now and offers visitors a unique night market experience.
Although it’s farther from the city, it’s well worth the travel because it’s less crowded and has a more laid-back atmosphere compared to Jodd Fairs. Locals love to visit this sprawling market, so if you’re looking for a truly authentic Thai experience, it’s worth considering making the trip here.
The market welcomes you with an array of food stalls, but as you go deeper inside, you’ll find vendors selling a variety of goods from clothing and accessories to gadgets and souvenirs. One thing Srinakarin is famous for is its vintage section. The market is brimming with
antiques and retro shops located in old buildings that take you back in time.
There are three sections: Rod’s Antiques, Warehouse Zone, and Market Zone. The first two zones are where you can find antique stores selling stuff like vintage cameras, classic cars, motorbikes, and even Japanese anime toys. Meanwhile, the Market Zone offers a more contemporary selection of apparel, toys, and other souvenir items.
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