The Boss Comes to Town

Bangkok is increasingly turning into Southeast Asia’s hottest fashion spot with a new flagship store seemingly opening every month. Among the most recent is leading luxury fashion house from Germany, Hugo Boss, whose new boutique on the first floor of Gaysorn Plaza is being billed as the brand’s first concept store in the Asia Pacific region.
Celebrities and fans of Hugo Boss attended the opening event, which included a show of the line’s Spring 2013 collection. Guests included ML Kathathong Thongyai, Bhurit Bhirombhakdi, Dr Nattakrit Thewphaingarm, Nondh Amranand, Kongpat Jiramaneekul, Ananda Everingham, Phupoom Phongpanu and Parin Suparat.
Billed as “Metropolises of the World”, the spring collection is inspired by urban gentlemen from around the globe. The collection’s main style revolves around luxurious but elegant lines, such as suits made of wool and linen, with the highlight being and a two-button suit in navy blue worn with a pastel blue slim fit shirt. The outfits are accessorised with quality shoes, bags and belts made of premium quality calfskin.
For guys who prefer the sporty look, the collection includes lightweight chino pants and pullovers designed specifically for summer.
Also available in this season’s collection are a sheepskin leather jacket and a selection of sport shirts for a more casual look.
The new concept store spread over 175 square metres is meticulously designed with an extensive use of modern, black and bronze decoration pieces, as well as linen walls. The store reflects an upscale lifestyle, a style that mirrors the classic and majestic look of the Hugo Boss’ gentleman.
More than 30 looks were presented on the catwalk, ranging from reserved looks in slim-fitted suits to more fun looks like pastel attires – all ready to confront any daily activity at hand.
For ML Kathathong Thongyai, who works for the Ministry of Commerce, suits are essential. “I personally prefer wearing plain and slim-fitted suits, and comfort is also an important factor. My selections are usually suits made of cotton, since they are light, or suits with linings when my meetings are not very official.
As for neckties, they must always match with my suits and reflect a more formal look. When I don’t have meetings, I normally just wear a short-sleeve shirt with a tie.”
Bhurit Bhirombhakdi also wears suits as part of his working day. “I want suits that are comfortable and wearable on a regular basis. For more formal meetings, they must be sleek with clean cutting, since a nice suit strengthens the character. I generally wear darker tones like black, navy blue, or grey. The materials also need to be light-weight, as Thailand is quite hot all year round,” he says.
Upcoming actor Nondh Amranand prefers slim-fitting suits. “I like fine-cut suits that perfectly fit my body. I always choose darker colours and match them with stylish ties.”
Although Dr Nattakrit Thewphaingarm, CEO of Thewphaingarm School, doesn’t wear suits very often, he believes that a slim-fitted suit can enhance the wearer’s figure and character. His secret for choosing suits can be summed up in one word – Bond. “Personally, I like James Bond, so the suits I choose are usually of his style: plain but smart. Reserved tones such as black or dark blue allow for a variety of occasions.
Kongpat Jiramaneekul, who grew up in London, spends much of his working life attending meetings. “I need to have many suits ready for use, especially black suits that can be worn to match many occasions. I think selecting the shape of the suits is more important than the colour or material. I put a lot of emphasis in matching my suits with other clothing pieces, such as trousers, neckties, or even bow ties. “