PARIS, France – Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand visited the exhibition “La Mode en Majesté: Haute couture et tradition à la cour de Thaïlande” at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs (MAD) in Paris, France, on June 30, 2026. Their Majesties were invited by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya. Upon arrival at the museum from the Le Meurice hotel, Their Majesties were warmly received by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari, along with French Minister of Culture Catherine Pégard, and MAD President Lionel Sauvage.
Their Majesties toured the gallery after listening to formal reports on the exhibition and Thai-French cultural cooperation presented by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari and Mrs. Bénédicte Gady. The exhibition is divided into seven zones, each highlighting aspects of Thai-French cultural identity through royal garments, the evolution of official Thai national costumes, and tributes to local artisans. Additional sections showcase Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother’s wardrobe designed by Balmain, the heritage of Thai silk brocade, the international influence of Mudmee silk, and contemporary Thai designs inspired by tradition. Their Majesties concluded their visit by observing a live demonstration of traditional Thai handicrafts before returning to their residence.
The exhibition is held from May 13 to November 1, 2026, under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya. It commemorates the 340th anniversary of the first diplomatic contact between Thailand and France in 1685 and the 170th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations in 1856. The exhibition highlights the historical and artistic ties between the two nations through the evolution of textiles, craftsmanship, and haute couture. It features over 200 pieces, including Queen Sirikit’s attire designed by Pierre Balmain and embroidered by Maison Lesage. The display also includes royal garments worn by Her Majesty the Queen and Princess Sirivannavari, as well as the eight official styles of the Thai national costume. The showcase supports Thailand’s initiative to nominate the Thai national costume for inclusion on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list for 2026, elevating the nation’s textile heritage to the global stage. (NNT)
