Chiang Mai, Thailand’s second largest city, is dotted with historic temples and often called the “Rose of the North.” It has long been a cultural center nurturing the unique Lanna culture of northern Thailand. Chiang Mai attracts people with its nostalgic charm—many artists from overseas have even relocated here.
Perhaps reflecting this high level of cultural sophistication, brands originating from Chiang Mai have recently been gaining huge popularity even within Thailand. Here are some of the most talked-about Chiang Mai brands.
1. Ginger
First up is Ginger, a Chiang Mai-based apparel and lifestyle brand known for its stunning use of color.
The brand features bright, pop designs created by a Danish designer who blends Scandinavian and Asian aesthetics. With its adorable lineup of clothing and kitschy accessories, it’s a definite favorite among women. Ginger products are now not only popular across Thailand but also available in select stores around the world.
The shop on Nimmanhaemin Road in Chiang Mai combines a boutique with a café-restaurant, offering chic interiors, delicious Thai cuisine, and cute goods all in one place. The brand also has several other branches throughout Thailand.
Name: GINGER
Official/related site: https://www.facebook.com/byGINGERlifestyle/
2. Vila Cini
Next is Vila Cini, a silk brand often referred to as the “Jim Thompson of Chiang Mai.” This long-established company boasts a 140-year history and handles everything from silkworm breeding to silk processing in a region known for its traditional crafts.
They produce many fabrics for interiors, and their cushion covers are beloved in luxury hotels across Thailand. The elegant shop on Charoen Rat Road sells exquisite silk products in beautiful, subdued color combinations—from shawls, cosmetic pouches, and pillowcases to placemats and other small items.
With celebrities like actress Jodie Foster among its clientele, we can only hope this brand makes its way to international soon.
Name: VILA CINI
Address: 30, 32, 34 Charoen Rat Road, Chiang Mai
Official/related site: http://www.vilacini.com/
3. Herb Basics
Though not yet very well-known in Thailand, Herb Basics is a 100% organic cosmetics brand with seven stores in Chiang Mai. All products use herbs grown locally in Chiang Mai, and the brand’s concept is “made by staff who want to use it themselves and find it cute.” Each product is carefully developed with this philosophy in mind.
While 100% organic cosmetics tend to be expensive, Herb Basics offers them at affordable Chiang Mai prices—one of its key attractions. Despite the low prices, the products’ quality and fragrance are highly regarded. If the brand ever enters the international market, it’s sure to attract long lines of eager customers.
Name: Herb Basics
Address: 174 Prapoklao Tambon Si Phum, Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200
Official/related site: http://www.herbbasicschiangmai.com/
◎ Summary
How was that? These are the Chiang Mai-born brands currently soaring in popularity!
While Chiang Mai may lack Bangkok’s dynamic pace, it retains an elegant atmosphere steeped in history and traditional culture. For that reason, it’s a highly popular place among foreign artists and has a large expatriate community. Perhaps it’s only natural that brands born from this fusion of diverse cultures are now gaining so much attention!