Princess Sirivannavari Opens Landmark Royal Dress Exhibition in Paris
Princess Sirivannavari opened a major exhibition of Thai royal fashion at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, showcasing over 200 pieces as Thailand and France marked 170 years of diplomatic relations. The exhibition runs until November
Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana opened a major exhibition at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris titled "La Mode en Majesté: Royal Thai Dress from Tradition to Modernity," showcasing the evolution of Thai royal fashion and its global influence as Thailand and France celebrated 170 years of diplomatic relations.
The exhibition brings together more than 200 pieces spanning seven galleries, including royal garments, antique textiles, handicrafts, and contemporary creations by Thai designers. Princess Sirivannavari, dressed in traditional Siwalai Thai national costume, presided over the opening ceremony attended by Thai cabinet ministers, ambassadors, and international dignitaries, who were then guided through all seven gallery spaces.
Following the exhibition tour, guests attended a gala dinner prepared by CODA Bangkok, a Michelin one-star restaurant, featuring contemporary Thai cuisine prepared with modern culinary techniques. Tables were decorated with intricate handicrafts produced under the Foundation for the Promotion of Supplementary Occupations and Related Techniques, including lacquer boxes repurposed as vases, woven baskets, and handcrafted silver animal sculptures by hill tribe artisans.
The exhibition is organized under Princess Sirivannavari's patronage through collaboration between the Support Arts and Crafts International Centre of Thailand, the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles, the Royal Thai Embassy in Paris, and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs. It will remain open to the public until November 1, 2026.
In recognition of her contributions to promoting French culture in Thailand and strengthening bilateral ties, the French government awarded Princess Sirivannavari the rank of Grand Officier of the Légion d'Honneur, one of France's highest honors. The recognition coincided with celebrations of the 340th anniversary of first contact between Siam and France in 2025 and the 170th anniversary of formal Thai-French diplomatic relations in 2026.
