Vintage Design Thai Clothing

I first became aware of the Design Thai label from a several page spread about them in a 1975 issue of Vogue magazine. Based in Bangkok, all Design Thai garments were sewn and hand finished in their workrooms there.

Jackie Ayer was the designer for Design Thai. She was able to work with a rich collection of Design Thai cotton fabrics that were hand screened in vibrant tropical colors and designs. Above, a crane print in aqua and white fashions a kimono jacket and palazzo pant. The set sold for $128.00 (about $520.00 in today's dollar).

The construction of Design Thai garments is of the highest quality with hand finished details like bound seams and hems, hand set zippers, hand set linings, and hanger loops. Here, a bird of paradise print in vibrant aqua and pink fashions a top and pant with matching scarf and quilted tote bag. The set sold for $144.00 (about $585.00 in today's dollar).

Design Thai dresses, resort, swim, and loungewear were carried by high end stores like I. Magnin, Bergdorf Goodman, and Lord & Taylor, as well as luxury specialty boutiques. Here, a cotton gauze beach cover-up hides a matching bikini swimsuit. The set sold for $100.00 (about $406.00 in today's dollar).

Design Thai garments were popular from about 1965 - 1979. How about a feather print halter top combined with a love bird print maxi skirt? The set sold for $102.00 (about $414.00 in today's dollar).

My favorite? This bird of paradise print hooded caftan in vibrant aqua and pink. Sold for $104.00 (about $422.00 in today's dollar).

At Couture Allure, I am happy to have found several pieces by Design Thai that are now available for sale on our website. Make a statement at your next summer party!

This vintage late 1960's set features a cotton top with a matching cotton quilted skirt. and wide obi style belt. Aren't the colors gorgeous? $105.00 at Couture Allure.

This set from the 70's features a pretty purple floral print on black. The wrap top is fashioned of sheer cotton batiste. The matching broadcloth maxi skirt is accented with 3-dimensional flower centers that are appliqued to the print. $135.00 at Couture Allure.

This vintage 70's maxi dress features a green geometric design on cotton broadcloth. Be sure to click into the listing to see the unusual neckline treatment. $95.00 at Couture Allure.