fashion statements at Chiang Mai summit

Certainly, it is not easy to arrange a fashion show. First, designers need to come up with the theme of the new collection. Then, preferred models must be booked, to ensure that the outfits are best exhibited. Then, the stage and lighting must be properly set. Last but not least, what needs to be done is to win audiences.

Indeed, holding the 14th Asean Summit perfectly fits the process of a luxury fashion boutique. It requires so many details. The theme for the meeting is designed and the stage has been set in Chiang Mai, the ancient city about 700km away.

In a way, all Asean leaders could be likened to preferred models. While models are hired to show off new clothes, the leaders will be there to show their commitment to whatever agreements will be announced during the meeting in mid-December.

And somehow, they are like models as they too have to don traditional clothes designed by the host country at the Gala Dinner. The formal attire called raj patan has been selected for this event. Raj patan, derived from the words 'royal pattern', was first fashioned by His Majesty King Rama V in 1871. Since then it has become the formal jacket worn on important occasions such as royal ceremonies.

Mae Fah Luang Foundation designers have transformed the royal pattern into a smart dinner jacket. The fabric for the inner-wear is a blend of cotton and bamboo fibres from Thailand's northern region, while the outerwear material is made from famous Thai silk yarn handwoven into delicate criss-crossing diamond shapes, forming the "pikul" flower pattern, which, in Thai culture, is a traditional symbol of purity and harmony.

Leaders have been asked to provide detailed body measurements so that the shirts and jackets for each individual are customised. Men are asked to provide nine measurements. For women, it sounds tougher, with 19 items in total, including the size of bust, bust "distance", arm hole and tummy.

Designers also measure models in detail to ensure that outfits perfectly fit the models. The only difference is that the leaders can choose their favourite colour from four choices, brick, green, brown and smoky blue. Certainly, among models, if they were not famous enough, they wouldn't have a say.

Hmm ... I'm curious what colour our prime minister will choose. I hope that this time he does not hesitate to tell the Foreign Affairs Ministry what colour he likes. Matter-of-factly, answering this question is easier than those about his brother-in-law.