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Vivienne Tang

Meet the region's leading fashion designers

Thai designer Saksit Pisalasupongs  never intended   to work in the fashion industry. Instead, he opted to study theatre  at Middlesex University in England. But, after graduating with a master's degree, he returned to Bangkok in 2000,   where he began organising fashion shows and working with top local and international designers. When his best  friend, designer   Phisit Jongnarangsin, approached  him to join his fashion label,  Tube Gallery, he jumped at  the chance. They opened a freestanding shop in 2001 and  are  now working on a street- wear label.

How did you set up the company?

Before we opened our  shop,  Phisit was selling the label in a department store called Zen.    It was only after  I joined and Bangkok Fashion Week in 2001, when we presented our first  collection,   that Tube Gallery became  well known.

What's the structure?

Phisit  and I have about 14 people working full-time,  in addition to some part-time staff. Phisit and I are in charge of designing, but we also have  a design team of  five people  to assist us.

How many lines are there?

The Tube Gallery label features  a men's and women's collection. The line has an avant-garde style,  and is fun and creative. We're about to launch another line called Tube Industry,  which will have  a street vibe. They're both ready-to-wear.

What's the design philosophy?

Many of our pieces are just wearable and comfortable.  We try to use conventional  materials  such as Thai silk in  an unconventional way.

Who are your customers?

Men and women in their 20s and 30s who are young at heart with a daring attitude.

What's  your next collection  like?

The summer 2006 collection, Bangkok Bound, is inspired by   the city.  It features more casual pieces.  We used  local materials such as silk, cotton and linen.

What else do you design?

We  have bags and shoes to go with each collection.

Where are your collections available?

So far, only in Bangkok and  Kuala Lumpur.

How does Thailand inspire you?

The Thai government has  made an effort to push the industry like never before, so I feel it's a very exciting time for Thai designers. I'd  like to see the day when  Thai labels and designers are recognised internationally and, hopefully, I'd have done my part to make it happen.  Thai culture has always inspired me.

Where do you want to expand?

We'd like to expand in Asia first, then Europe.

What's been the biggest influence in your career?

The reaction of people after each fashion show.

What plans do you have?

We want to expand the business to an international level and focus on export.

What's your motto?

No rule, no reason. I never studied design at a fashion school, and  all my knowledge comes from learning by experience. I don't stick to the traditional rules. I  just do what I like.



Saksit Pisalasupongs