Sunglasses by Moo Piyasombatkul
It’s easy to not put much thought into your sunglass style here in Bangkok. When you can pick up frames for as little as THB50, why bother looking for the most flattering fit? Well, one of the best things about sunglasses is that you can pop a great pair on and automatically make your outfit look seven-times cooler than it did before (provided, of course, you’re not wearing them at night, in which case: negative points).
If you’re bored wearing knock-off Ray-Bans, the good news is that there are loads of exciting new styles out there leaning towards the trend of “bigger is better.” This is great news, as we’ll soon be able to bid adieu to those John Lennon-esque styles, which have the distinct feature of looking horrible on just about everyone.
There’s something about a massive pair of dark sunglasses that makes you feel instantly A-list, even if you’re just wandering around Sukhumvit in jeans and a vest. A worthwhile investment, we think you’ll agree.
As well as the usual players in the sunglasses market, this year has seen Thailand’s very own Moo Piyasombatkul make some huge strides in the fashion world. Last year, Lady Gaga was seen sporting a pair of Moo’s ornate, porcelain-framed glasses and this year, the fashion press has been all over her new collection, which has appeared in magazines such as Grazia, Harper’s Bazaar and Elle. They’re a huge hit in London’s Browns but, unfortunately, she’s yet to sell them in the Kingdom and hasn’t given any hint that she will (although Bangkok Fabulous can recall seeing some distinctly similar styles on the third floor of Terminal 21).
If hunting down a pair of Moo Piyasombatkul’s proves too much of a mission, most of the top designers and, of course the high street and market stalls, have got some statement pairs that will add the essential “I’m highly busy and important” aspect to any outfit. The key is to go big and to go beautiful (that means aviators are out, round-y frames are out, bug eye lenses are out and so are tiny little lenses). Not sure what we’re talking about? Before you buy anything, think to yourself, “What would Elizabeth Taylor do?” If she’d buy them, then they qualify as a “do.”
So, to reiterate, massive sunglasses are in. For a great example thereof, check out Stella McCartney’s enormous tortoiseshell square frames. It also means sixties pop artsy frames, such as Dolce & Gabbana’s deckchair-inspired striped styles, are huge. Looking for something even more outlandish? Prada’s daisy-studded styles should do the job. But if you really want to buck the wayfarer trend, opt for some highly glamorous cat’s eye styles. Linda Farrow has a great selection, as do Marc by Marc Jacobs, Anna Sui and House of Holland.
Even if you don’t follow any other fashion trends this year, a great pair of sunglasses will help cultivate the illusion that you do.
