Chulalongkorn Scholar Advocates for 'Elephant Pants' as Thai Cultural Icon: A Fashionable and Sustainable Soft Power
A Chulalongkorn University scholar, Prof. Patcha U-Tiswannakul, is promoting the popularity of "Elephant Pants" as an example of Thai soft power.
These pants, which feature elephant patterns and a blend of traditional wisdom and modern designs, reflect Thainess and showcase textile knowledge.
Prof. Patcha invites everyone to explore the significance of Elephant Pants in the context of fashion academia.
The text is about the Elephant Pants, a comfortable and stylish fashion item made of airy cotton, suitable for Thailand's heat.
The product comes in various forms, including shorts, pants, and joggers, and several colors.
The production of Elephant Pants has evolved into a creative economy, and they have become a popular fashion staple for both Thais and foreigners.
The pants have gone from being souvenirs to being worn in various settings, from markets to department stores.
Prof. Patcha noted the sales and popularity of the Elephant Pants as a testament to its success and a Thai charm.
The text discusses the potential for improving the quality and production processes of Elephant Pants in Thailand with government support.
This would help bring the product up to international standards and create jobs for the local community.
To make the product unique and sustainable, there should be a focus on using high-quality materials and collaborating with local communities for unique designs.
Effective branding, marketing, and market penetration are also crucial for appealing to global consumers and promoting Thai culture.
Prof. Patcha suggests creating Elephant Pants designs that appeal to all ages and represent Thai heritage, using sustainable production methods and local craftsmen.
He views the increasing Chinese competition in the Thai Elephant Pants market as an opportunity rather than a crisis, and proposes adding creativity and value to differentiate Thai products globally.
By transforming Elephant Pants from souvenirs to fashion icons, Prof. Patcha aims to make them a new lifestyle choice and part of the creative economy.
The text suggests that the Thai government should promote the "Elephant Pants" as a cultural product and a form of soft power.
This can be achieved by showcasing them in cultural activities, supporting local craftsmen, promoting the product at international fashion events, and sharing their origin and sustainability on digital platforms.
To increase production capacity and create jobs, the government could provide high-power machines and hire locals.
Additionally, support from the public sector and entrepreneurs is encouraged to boost demand and profits for the community and new designers.
The new generation of designers is tasked with creating symbols of Thai culture.
Patcha believes that limiting the production of Elephant Pants academically may generate knowledge but won't add value in the industry.
With a low number of items produced, they may become collectibles instead of growing sustainably.
However, now that the trend for Elephant Pants has started, there's an opportunity to expand and create more value.
New designers should develop unique patterns that reflect identity and make the product more creative to build on the phenomenon.
The Elephant Pants trend still has potential for growth.