- Street Style Planet Earth
Style Profile - Pleng - Fashion Student - Bangkok
Pleng is a 21 year old Decorative Arts student majoring in Fashion Design at Silpakorn University in Bangkok. From the outer suburb of Nontaburi, Pleng is in the 4th year and is preparing to graduate. Street Style Planet Earth caught up with her in the Thai capital's China Town to chat about Thai youth culture and her plans after University.

You're about to graduate, how have you developed over the course?
I've learned more about clothing and every aspect of fashion. Studying design has pushed me more to be braver and to express my self more freely. There's been a few tough times. It's difficult not to compare yourself with others in class and at times I was so upset.
What is your plan after graduating?
I would like to do a fashion styling and start doing test shoots. My personal creative projects are important to me, so I will look for some jobs that can help me fund and support my goals.

Do you have a longer term plan yet?
I would like to be part of a photo and video shoot production team. I think starting as a stylist would be a good way to learn about the industry and see where it leads.
How would you describe your personal style?
A little incompatible! But still pretty kick-ass!

Any favourite Thai brands / designers?
Greyhound, Adi.C , Takara Wong, Q Design & Play
Favourite International designers / brands?
Kenzo, Prada, J.W. Anderson, Maison Maigiela, Alexander Wang, MSGM
Do you keep an eye on the youth fashion scenes of any other Asian Countries? Which Asian city do you feel has the most exciting fashion scene?
Korea and Seoul Fashion Week

Since you first became interested in fashion & style, how do you see Thai Youth around you interacting with fashion?
There are still people think that Fashion is complicated and hard to understand and approach but it shouldn't be seen that way. Fashion is often a vehicle for the Entertainment Industry and big business so it reaches more people and in turn Thai youth seem more aware than ever of global trends and styles. Fashion is everywhere from music, tv shows and movies. It's no longer just seen in magazines, it's everywhere.

Climate concern has been a big part of 2019 - How do you think this will affect fashion over 2020?
Sustainable & Eco friendly materials and fabrics are going to be more important than ever before.
Have you ever been to Bangkok's Elle Fashion Week?
I was so impressed and inspired with the production of Greyhound's 2019 show; Thai 90's Alternative soundtracks and a very unorthodox format. They made the show so chic and stand out so much from the other shows during the FW.
Do you feel there should be a better platform for younger, small boutique Thai brands to show their products during FW?
Yes Yes Yes!

When did you first become interested in fashion and style?
It came through my love for Korean Musician like Big Bang and 2NE1 around 8 or 9 years ago. They still inspire me today.
Who are your fashion inspirations / influences?

Where do you look for inspiration?
Instagram, Pinterest and Music
What are your other interests?
Photography

Do you have any secret or favourite places to find clothes in BKK?
I like shopping in the second hand and vintage stores at Wanglang, Pantip (Ngamwongwan) and Shinjuku outlet at Pata Pinklao where clothes are sold by weight.
Ever tried to make or customise your own clothes?
Yes I've customised my clothes and shoes.

Favourite Bangkok hangouts?
Dongdaemun Korean Grilled Pork
TCDC - Thailand Creative & Design Centre
Hopes and dreams for 2020?
To graduate with a good degree, to earn the money from what I love doing and travel Taiwan.

All photos by Al de Perez for Street Style Planet Earth
Shot on location in China Town, Bangkok
Words & Photos by Al de Perez
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