Terminal 21 is nothing new; we’ve all got lost on its unnecessary number of escalators, had our photos taken next to that big waving cat and watched some seriously odd performances on the stage at the BTS level. But perhaps the most exciting thing about Terminal 21 (apart from the food court), is the Istanbul floor, which for accessory fiends is a sure-fire way to achieve shallow material thrills.
Unlike most of Bangkok’s malls, which are either enormous, high-end, soul-destroying affairs or rabbit warrens full of cheap clothes piled high along narrow walkways, Terminal 21 is actually a really pleasant place to shop.
Head to the Istanbul floor on Level 3 for the best finds. Trust me, nobody spends as much time trawling Terminal 21 as I do. Just like the Grand Bazaar, it’s packed full of quirky jewelry finds. That’s where the similarities to Istanbul end.
Accessories are the most fun part of fashion. Specifically jewelry. It’s generally cheaper than a full outfit, there’s more of a license to have fun with it (because it’s less in-your-face and can easily be removed should doubt or embarrassment creep across your mind), it’s an easy way to update any outfit, and it doesn’t have to be ironed.
Whether you plump for fleeting jewelry trends, or you prefer investment pieces, Terminal 21 has got dozens of shops to suit your mood and your pocket. Personally, I like to dabble in a little investment jewelry and a little of the ridiculous, too.
[[{“type”:”media”,”view_mode”:”media_original”,”fid”:”17312″,”attributes”:{“alt”:””,”class”:”media-image”,”height”:”413″,”typeof”:”foaf:Image”,”width”:”550″}}]]
The Ridiculous:
Abbaew
Abbaew is for connoisseurs of tat. It’s for the girl who has everything, but wants it in duplicate, preferably covered in faux fur. Fabric covered glasses frames with no lenses, bunny ear rings, cat ear hair clips, jeweled iPod covers and oversized bow hair bands are just some of the kitsch cool treasures you’ll find in this tiny store. Prices start from around THB120 for a ring and about THB700 for an iPod cover.
Tom, Dick and Harry
Magpie-eyed ladies (and gents) will be magnetically drawn to this shimmering cave of bling. Yes, bling. I said it. Everything is sparkly and cheap and fabulous. We’re talking fake YSL arty rings, owl bangles and humungous pink diamante heart-shaped rings. Fans of throwaway fashions and that greenish tinge your skin takes on after wearing cheap jewelry should make this a must-visit.
Hob
If jewelry isn’t your thing, perhaps Hob can tempt you with its insane clutch bags. What’s the opposite of a wallflower? Those are the people who should shop in here. Bags are loud neons, graffiti printed and asymmetrical or covered in studs and spikes. These one-of-a-kind, genuine leather pieces make a great alternative to the usual boring bags sported in Bangkok.
[[{“type”:”media”,”view_mode”:”media_original”,”fid”:”17313″,”attributes”:{“alt”:””,”class”:”media-image”,”height”:”413″,”typeof”:”foaf:Image”,”width”:”550″}}]]
The Sublime:
CC by Susri
I must admit to never having been in this shop, but I have pressed my nose longingly against the window so many times, you can see the smear of my drool there almost every day. Jewelry here is unusual, arty and precious stone-based. Prices start from around THB5,000 which is actually quite reasonable for a piece of jewelry you’ll wear forever, but is not so reasonable if you have to raid your piggy bank for change for the MRT at the end of every month.
Keith & Kym Gallery
A more affordable option, Keith & Kym Gallery showcases some real talking-point jewelry. You know, like crocodile knuckledusters, bangles that look like watches but aren’t and earrings in the shape of umbrellas. Prices hover around the THB3,000 mark, which might seem pricey, but where else can you get a crocodile knuckleduster?*
Aquamarine
Precious stones don’t have to mean high price tags. Aquamarine is easy to miss, but worth seeking out if you have an penchant for affordable turquoise rings, lapis lazuli necklaces and tiger eye bracelets. Bracelets start from around THB250, and 925 sterling silver and stone rings will set you back from around THB1600.
*If you know, please tell us.
[[{“type”:”media”,”view_mode”:”media_original”,”fid”:”17314″,”attributes”:{“alt”:””,”class”:”media-image”,”height”:”413″,”typeof”:”foaf:Image”,”width”:”550″}}]]
