Known across the land as Luk Ked, supermodel Methinee Kingpha-yome has time and again displayed her business savvy as effectively as her beauty in a career that's always expanding in new directions.

Now she's going to show us her underwear.

Luk Ked has just launched a lingerie line with Jintana, a firm long established in the unmentionables business.

"Methinee by Jintana" joins a list of celebrity-endorsed undies that includes Elle MacPherson Intimates and Kylie Minogue's Love Kylie.

"I think I can do that too," Luk Ked says. "I collect lingerie - it's a passion that gives me the inspiration to bring something exciting to the range."

The new line is sure to fit the name, and Luk Ked is known for being sexy, but it's varied enough to suit women from teens to 45.

"Actually I love many styles of lingerie," she says. "That's why I'm able to do different designs."

There are four Methinee by Jintana collections at the moment: Lacy Eyes is all about being sexy and chic, Kiss is for teenagers, Passion is for young adults and Grace will please those who love minimalism.

"New collections will be launched every three months under a five-year contract between Methinee and Jintana," Luk Ked vows.

Beyond the design details, she's also handling marketing and publicity, and of course she'll be the model.

"People know me for my sexy image and as a fashion model, and that's what I hope will guarantee the brand's success."

As well as lingerie, Luk Ked plans to introduce more items - swimwear, nightwear, and sportswear - in the near future.

No stranger to business, she knows how to sell a product.

"I've worked in so many businesses, often through trial and error. Some of them didn't make the grade, some are going okay."

Luk Ked's first venture, a restaurant on Bangkok's trendy RCA, closed after two years. She had a go at being a wine importer, but the local tax restraints killed that effort on the vine.

"It seems my luck hasn't been too great with food and wine," she says.

Her next move was online at ThaiSupermodel.com, but that's offline now.

She scored big, though, with the TV reality show "Thailand's Perfect Man", which is returning for another season early next year.

And recently Luk Ked opened The Lounge, a boutique hair salon on Sukhumvit Soi 31.

In among all the ups and downs was another big up - her book of health and beauty tips, which was a best-seller for months.

"I'll release my second book next year too. It will be about branding myself, mostly about my business experience," she says.

She seems happy with all the hard work.

"I go to work at my office every morning, then I work with Jintana in the afternoon, and in the evening I have my other projects, including my modelling."

Whew! That's it, right?

"Oh," she says, "I'm considering a part in a new television drama next year too!"

Vipasai Niyamabha

 The Nation