La Mode en Majesté – Royal Thai Dress: From Tradition to Modernity

What makes Thai royal fashion so timeless that it deserves a grand exhibition in Paris?

La Mode en Majesté is a Paris exhibition opening on May 13, 2026, that traces the transformation of Royal Thai Dress through history, showcasing over 200 garments, royal couture pieces, and examples of Thai craftsmanship alongside collaborations with French fashion houses.

The exhibition is a collaboration between the Support Arts and Crafts International Centre of Thailand (SACIT), The Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles, the Royal Thai Embassy in Paris, and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs. Together, these institutions aim to present Thai royal fashion not only as ceremonial clothing, but also as a reflection of cultural identity, artistry, and diplomacy.

Visitors will discover garments worn by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana, and Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya. The exhibition demonstrates how Thai royal attire has continuously evolved while preserving traditional techniques and symbolism.

One of the most anticipated sections of La Mode en Majesté focuses on the eight styles of Chud Thai Phra Ratcha Niyom, the royally endorsed Thai national costumes. These looks represent different levels of formality and occasions within Thai culture, while showcasing the sophistication of Thai silk weaving, embroidery, and textile craftsmanship.

The exhibition also features couture collaborations between Thai royal fashion and legendary French houses, including works co-designed with Pierre Balmain and the renowned embroidery atelier Lesage. These pieces illustrate how Thai aesthetics and French haute couture craftsmanship have influenced one another over the decades.

Beyond fashion, the exhibition highlights the preservation of traditional artisan knowledge passed down through generations. Through embroidery, weaving, tailoring, and jewelry-making, La Mode en Majesté positions Thai fashion heritage within the global luxury and museum landscape.

La Mode en Majesté offers more than a fashion exhibition. It is a celebration of Thai identity, royal craftsmanship, and cultural heritage on an international stage. From Chud Thai traditions to couture collaborations with Pierre Balmain and Lesage, the exhibition demonstrates how Royal Thai Dress continues to evolve while preserving centuries of artistry and elegance.