Interview by Halina Rosa, Designer Magazine
Halina Rosa: Dr. Chirawan, we are thrilled to have you on the pages of Designer. Dubai 2026 is just around the corner, and Thailand International Fashion Week is moving to this dazzling city. How are you feeling about this year’s event?
Dr. Chirawan Lewis: Thank you, Halina! I’m beyond excited. Dubai is such a vibrant, global hub—it’s the perfect place to showcase the richness of Thai fashion. This edition of TIFW will be our most extravagant yet. From jaw-dropping couture collections to electrifying performances on the runway, we aim to create an unforgettable experience for every fashion lover attending.
https://thailandinternationalfashionweek.com
Halina Rosa: Your collections are renowned for blending traditional Thai elements with modern elegance. Can you tell us more about your design philosophy?
Dr. Chirawan Lewis: Absolutely. My work under JAL Fashion UK, which I founded in 2013, is all about wearable art. I love incorporating Thai cultural motifs, vibrant colors, and intricate detailing into contemporary silhouettes. Collections like Angel are designed not just to be worn, but to tell a story—to celebrate Thailand’s heritage while appealing to a global audience. I want my designs to empower women and show that fashion can bridge cultures.
Halina Rosa: You’ve achieved incredible recognition—ASEAN Awards, the International Achievers Award for Best Female Designer, and even Global Designer 2018. How has your journey evolved since founding JAL Fashion UK?
Dr. Chirawan Lewis: It’s been an amazing journey. Starting in London but remaining deeply connected to my Thai roots has enabled me to bring Thai fashion to international stages, including Cannes, New York, and London. But what excites me most is Thailand International Fashion Week itself—it’s more than a runway show. It’s a platform for emerging and established designers, a space for cross-cultural collaboration, and a celebration of creativity that attracts influencers, celebrities, and industry leaders from all over the world.
Halina Rosa: Speaking of TIFW, what can audiences expect in Dubai this February?
Dr. Chirawan Lewis: They can expect an immersive, unforgettable experience. The runway shows will combine spectacular designs, stunning performances, and a red carpet full of glamour. Our theme embodies the idea of “Runways without borders. Style without limits.” It’s about bringing people together through fashion, telling stories that go beyond geography.
Halina Rosa: You also lead JAL Fashion UK 88 Magazine. How does this complement your work as a designer?
Dr. Chirawan Lewis: The magazine is a platform to celebrate global artistry, curated editorials, photography, luxury, and travel content. It allows me to share stories, inspire readers, and highlight emerging trends and talent from around the world. For example, in August 2025, we showcased my latest collection in Bangkok alongside the newest edition of JAL Fashion UK 88. It was a perfect synergy of fashion and media.
Halina Rosa: Finally, Dr. Lewis, what drives you forward in the world of fashion?
Dr. Chirawan Lewis: I’m driven by a passion for empowering women, bridging cultures, and creating fashion that resonates globally. Every collection is an opportunity to innovate while honoring my Thai heritage. Dubai 2026 will be another milestone in this journey, and I look forward to sharing it with the world.
Halina Rosa: Thank you so much, Dr. Lewis, for sharing your vision with Designer readers. We can’t wait to see your magic on the runway in Dubai!
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551467720935
https://thailandinternationalfashionweek.com
2026.01.07 Stockholm
Leave a Reply