Aparna Sharma gives advice on sustainable styling and celebrations this Loy Krathong season.

Loy Krathong is one of my favourite Thai festivals, but one factor we have observed across big festivals in different countries is that the festivities are often not eco-friendly. On the contrary, they can be damaging to the planet. This includes the polyester-based fast fashion clothes which are being consumed at a large scale during festival season. Here are a few simple tips to style and celebrate sustainably:

CUSTOM MAKING

When I moved to Bangkok 15 years ago, I custom made a beautiful dress from Thai handloom fabric and continue to use that dress for all Thai occasions since. I’ve added a few more custom made outfits over the years with fabrics bought from different weaving communities I’ve come across in Northern Thailand, and made by a tailor in Bangkok. I make them in styles which fit my personal wardrobe: you can opt for a jacket, bralette, trousers, dress, etc. Aside from buying fabric from local communities, you can buy authentic Thai handloom cloth in Chinatown, or check with your tailor if they can source it for you.

SWAPPING

Bangkok Recycling Chain recently had a swap event which was advertised as the perfect opportunity to find clothes for Loy Krathong or Halloween. Swapping is the most fun way to socialise with like-minded people and get recommendations. Follow Fashion Revolution Thailand (Instagram: @fashrev.th) and Bangkok Recycling Chain (Instagram: @bangkokrecyclingchain) to stay updated on all swap events happening in Bangkok, not just for special occasions! I have seen leaps and boundsof improvement in the swap events which have been happening in Bangkok over the years. The more people support it, the more improvement and advancement we will be able to see in swap business models.

THRIFTING

There are many thrift stores across Bangkok, which should sell Thai outfits this season. One of my absolutely favourite skirts, made from Thai fabric, is from Khru Angoon Garden in Thong Lo. Other options include Tokyo Joe and Treasure Factory in Sukhumvit Soi 39. Thrifting is a way of giving used clothes a new life, and keep as many clothes out of landfills.

BORROWING

This is a super easy way to participate sustainably in festival fashion. Ask a friend who has lived in Thailand for a long time or is a local who was born and raised here to help you, either with suggestions, or allowing you to borrow or rent a dress from their wardrobe. Make sure to return it with a thank you note and a small gift!

RENTING

There are many rental shops across Bangkok, including around the Wat Arun area which will have Thai attire. People usually take pictures wearing Thai costumes there, so it may be the best place to rent an outfit for Loy Krathong.

CELEBRATIONS

Let’s remember to celebrate in a eco-friendly way! There are many options for krathongs made from organic materials (which feed fish and don’t cause water pollution). Many are even floating virtual krathongs from their iPads or phones. As for lanterns, the ones which are made to biodegrade cause less pollution, but this doesn’t solve multiple other issues associated with lighting lanterns and floating them. If you want to be eco-friendly, you can avoid floating lanterns physically and instead just light a candle in a temple or share one floating lantern between a group of friends instead of floating them individually.

Aparna Sharma (Instagram: @stylishsuitcase) is a non-conformist who believes that fashion must become a force for good and style must meet sustainability. She breaks down the nuances of slow fashion and how we can stay stylish without being trendy.