Takara Thakorn Wannawong’s interest in sci-fi films as a kid influenced his way of exploring the connection between humans and technology. In his SS18 collection, the designer seeks to unearth an uncertainty towards the future of innovation, questioning whether this progressive façade reflected on society has contributed to the loneliness of men in their everyday lives.
In this interview, we go behind-the-scenes with Wannawong to find out more about his culture and influences growing up, and discover the creative director’s process behind the brand’s stylistic concept and designs.
The collection showcases anarchic elements as well, including details like clear plastic pockets, stylistic use of masking tape to indicate censorship and slogans about “Future-sistance”. What’s the message you’re aiming to convey?The collection showcases anarchic elements as well, including details like clear plastic pockets, stylistic use of masking tape to indicate censorship and slogans about “Future-sistance”. What’s the message you’re aiming to convey?
It’s styling. But of course, we want our followers to not feel the need to keep up with the pace of society. “[You] don’t have to go future-fast, future is not friendly with you” [laughs]. Future-sistance is short for “Future Resistance”. In this time and age, you see brands and campaigns getting involved with eco-culture. For Takara Wong, we don’t want to go along with this future-fast pace, where the use of technology has enabled consumers to abide in this blue streak movement — it’s too much!
Can you tell us more about the images featured on the menswear shirts?
We always design our messages to both be hidden and public on our clothing, whether it’s tongue-in-cheek or a response to dark humour. We want people to question the underlying meaning, which means they have to take a look at the shirt and ask me [laughs].
How has growing up in Thailand influenced your journey as a fashion designer?
I grew up in both Thailand and Sydney, so there’s a blend of contrasting cultures. Bangkok adopts a rushed environment; Sydney is more laidback. Bangkok’s weather is mostly hot; Sydney’s ranges between seasons — winter, rainy, hot. I also love to explore both cultures by people-watching in bars, observing the way they dance, sip their drinks or just purely making love. Every place is different, and that influences my journey as a fashion designer in translating the “true colours of people”.
Are there any exciting projects you’re currently working on?
In 2018, Takara Wong will see more collaborations with party and music collectives, with pop-up projects in Bangkok and possibly in other Asian countries — we’re excited for that!
Photography Raymond Yong
Stylist Nutpajee Praparat
Assistant Stylist Natthaya Thaidecha
Photography Assistant Jakkarin Moolmanus
Model Andy Harris from Zoom Evrika Model Agency Bangkok