#legendFashionReview by Manit Maneephantakun @kaimanit
Is there anything left that this legendary designer hasn’t done, or can’t do? As long-time admirers of Thai fashion, we all know that the name Chamnan Pakdeesuk carries a kind of reverence that commands instant respect each time his work graces the runway. And so, when news spread that he would return with a new brand, 37°c Thirty-seven degrees Celsius, anticipation quickly turned into excitement, adding an electric charge to the atmosphere at #SiamParagonBIFW2025.
What lies behind this chic, numerical name? Could it be the average temperature of the human body, or perhaps the typical summer heat of Thailand? Whatever its inspiration, the curiosity only deepened: which of Chamnan’s many creative talents would he bring to this long-awaited comeback?
The answer came in the form of “The Equator”, the debut collection under the theme Equatorial Chic. The designer sought to transform everyday simplicity into fashion, inviting wearers to rediscover beauty in the familiar, through garments inspired by the rich textures and moods of the tropics.
The moment we stepped into the show, we were greeted by an atmosphere of ease, an understated runway paired with soft, relaxing music. And yet, given Chamnan’s reputation for staging every imaginable kind of spectacular setting, the quiet anticipation of what was to come became its own kind of thrill.
Then came the first look: the clear signal of a new direction. The collection unfolded as an ode to resortwear refined, featuring airy silhouettes, masterfully cut from fine linen, in an array of shades so considered they could easily serve as a live demonstration for a personal color lab (a trend much adored by Gen Z). Through this subtle sophistication, Chamnan has found a clever way to attract a new generation of clients, while simultaneously offering a sense of nostalgia to those who remember his earlier work, back when he helped spark Thailand’s minimalist movement in the 1990s before moving into couture with Flynow. And for those who recall the urban workwear of Singha Life, the connection feels complete.
Having explored every fashion terrain, Been there, done that, Chamnan now invites us to join him on a new journey that reflects his lifelong love of travel and discovery.
Beyond the color harmonies and easy tailoring, what defined this show most was the genuine joy radiating from the audience. It was clear that everyone was thrilled and touched, to witness his return. Because, truly, it felt so good. Once in a lifetime, both the designer and his audience find themselves walking together again, on this quietly extraordinary fashion journey.
