Queen Sirikit’s enduring fashion legacy

Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, achieved global icon status for her impeccable style, becoming a prominent figure on the world stage and earning induction into the prestigious International Best Dressed List Hall of Fame in New York. This personal recognition provided the impetus for her most significant cultural achievement: the creation of a distinct national costume.

In 1960, during state visits with His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great, the Queen Mother recognized the critical need for attire that was both distinctly Thai and suitable for modern, international settings. She commissioned a group of experts, leading directly to the design and eventual adoption of the Royal Endorsed Thai Dress.

This initiative resulted in a set of eight formal styles that not only elevated Thai silk and craftsmanship onto the world stage and provided Thai women with graceful attire for every occasion, but also served as a lasting testament to the Queen Mother’s vision, establishing a beautiful national identity and significantly boosting the traditional Thai silk and textile industries.