An admirer of Thai fabric, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother had her outfits made from traditional fabric. Her Majesty’s wearing of Thai fabric was admired both locally and internationally.

In 1960, Her Majesty was preparing to accompany King Rama IX on long state visits to the United States and Europe. Realizing that there was a need for a modern national costume that both represented Thailand’s national identity and was suitable for formal wear, Her Majesty commissioned research into Thai women’s attire that reflected Thai identity in its cultural roots and from all periods of Thai history, namely Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, and Rattanakosin. The attire should also be adapted to be suitable for the present day. 

Her Majesty’s initiative led to royal-inspired Thai costumes, referred to as “Chud Thai Phra Ratchaniyom.” There are altogether eight styles of royal-inspired Thai costumes for ladies: (1) Thai Reuan Ton, (2) Thai Chitralada, (3) Thai Amarin, (4) Thai Boromphiman, (5) Thai Chakri, (6) Thai Dusit, (7) Thai Siwalai, and (8) Thai Chakkraphat. They have since become recognized as the official Thai national costume for women.

Today royal-inspired Thai costumes are popular among Thai ladies and have also become widely known in Thai society and the international community. Thanks to the benevolence and wisdom of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, Thai cultural heritage will be appreciated and well preserved for generations to come.

For men, the traditional dress, known as “Chud Phra Ratchathan, consists of trousers with a shirt, called “Sua Phra Ratchathan.” Former President of the Privy Council and Statesman Gen. Prem Tinsulanonda asked for royal suggestions on men’s traditional dress. Her Majesty bestowed three types of traditional dress for men, which have also been developed for use on various occasions. They include short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts and long-sleeved shirts with a sash. Subsequently, King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great (Rama IX) gave the outfit to Gen. Prem to promote and wear in public.

Chud Thai Phra Ratchaniyom is now recognized as Thai national costume for women and Chud Phra Ratchathan as Thai national dress for men.