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ThaiOasis Designer of the Month
Designer Tananan Willson
Creator of Tananan Willson Haute Couture, Chiang Mai
Khun Tananan
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When we asked Chiang Mai’s Tananan Willson when he started designing fashion, we were shocked to learn that he’s only been involved in the fashion world for two years.
Prior to that, he’d done many things, from managing his family’s two-generations old massage business, to managing the gourmet cookie part of the enterprise (and yes, when you visit his shop on Ratchadamnoen, you can buy a dress, get a traditional Thai massage, and have a cookie in the same visit).
Tananan also worked for the United Nations in drug treatment and health care programs.
He holds a degree in Accounting and Business Administration.
His fashion career began simply: “In 2002, I took a figure drawing class at Polytechnic College Chiang Mai, and one of my instructors suggested I draw patterns for clothes, so I took that course too.”
Five courses later, Khun Tananan bought a sewing machine.
His first designs were for a series of scarves, which have evolved to his elaborate shawls.
Many of them are based on inspiration from operas and musicals, and feature drapery and hand-sewing.
His shawls can be used as fashion accessories for both men and women, and, because one size fits all, can be easily worn by Westerners.
In April of 2003, Tananan began designing evening wear for women, elegant dresses that comprised up to three shawls, with elaborate clasps and silver necklaces.
In July of 2004, he launched his fashion enterprise at a fashion-and-musical concert program in conjunction with classical pianist David Wilson.
Design philosophy
“People sometimes feel the need to confine themselves to what they feel is “in” at the moment ... regardless of your body type, do anything you want to do, in terms of color and trend. Don’t worry about it!”
“I prefer Italian silk to Thai silk, which is too light and tends to wrinkle. I also love to use Indian cashmere.”
His small shop holds a treasure of beautiful garments, and fashion shoppers can buy Tananan’s fashions either at his shop in Chiang Mai, or via his website.
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