How the Thai Royal Fashion Embraced Western Style in the 1800s
When people think of traditional Thai dress, images of elegant sabai wraps, silk skirts, and bare shoulders often come to mind.
But in the late 1800s, Thai royal fashion took a surprising turn—blending local tradition with Western influence in a way that continues to shape cultural fashion today.
One of the most iconic outcomes of this fusion was the “ham-sleeved” blouse. This style emerged during the reign of King Rama V (King Chulalongkorn), a monarch known for modernizing Siam and strengthening diplomatic ties with the West.
Inspired by Victorian-era Europe and even the Russian imperial courts, the ham-sleeved blouse featured a tightly cinched waist, ornate lace detailing, and dramatically puffed sleeves that tapered at the wrist. The look mirrored the fashion trends of the late 19th century, but it wasn’t merely an imitation.
Thai royal women paired these blouses with the traditional jong kraben—a wraparound lower garment similar to trousers—and styled their hair in graceful Thai updos. The result was a sophisticated blend of East and West that signaled Siam’s engagement with global modernity while preserving its unique cultural identity.
The ham-sleeved blouse gained popularity around 1895 within the royal court and soon became a lasting symbol of this era of transformation. Today, the look continues to make appearances in school parades, historical reenactments, and national cultural events. It remains a timeless choice when celebrating Thai heritage through fashion.
Photo Credit: Wikipedia
