A Scandalous Queen that inspired a Collection
Kathryn Kayajan
A Textile Journey: Exploring Thailand Through the SIRIKIT Textile Collection
Inspiration struck Kathryn Ferran Kayajan as she wandered through the majestic halls of The Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand. Granted rare access to Queen Sirikit’s private textile archives, she uncovered a rich tapestry of history, artistry, and royal elegance — and with it, the captivating tale of the collection’s namesake: a scandalous former queen.
From this extraordinary experience, the SIRIKIT Textile collection was born — a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, expressed through three exquisite hand-painted patterns: Thammarat, Khit, and Thai Fret. Each design honors centuries-old Thai craftsmanship while embracing Kathryn’s contemporary vision.
Queen Sirikit: From Style Icon to Palace Scandal and a Legacy of Preservation
Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother of Thailand, is one of the most influential figures in modern Thai history. Born in 1932, she became the beloved consort of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen of Thailand from 1950 to 2016 and played a pivotal role in promoting Thai culture and social welfare. Queen Sirikit became an international style icon through her elaborate gowns designed by renowned French couturier Pierre Balmain, crafted from exquisite traditional woven brocades made from gold thread and Thai silk then embellished by famed embroidery house Lesage. The collaboration created a wardrobe blending Western haute couture with traditional Thai silk, elevating the fabric’s global reputation and reviving Thailand’s silk industry.
Beyond fashion, Queen Sirikit’s legacy is deeply tied to philanthropy. In 1976, she founded the SUPPORT Foundation to preserve traditional Thai craftsmanship and provide economic opportunities for rural artisans, particularly women. Her dedication to cultural preservation endured despite palace scandals in the 1980s, including rumored internal conflicts within the royal court and an alleged affair. However, she emerged from controversy with an unwavering commitment to her people, revitalizing Thailand’s craft industry and ensuring its heritage thrived.
Today, Queen Sirikit’s influence extends beyond royalty—she is remembered as a guardian of Thai culture, a champion of artisans, and a queen whose style shaped a nation’s identity.
Her legacy is on full display at the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles located within the grounds of the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand.
