Thai silk is one of the most luxurious fabrics in the world. Known for its shimmering colors, unique texture, and long-lasting quality, Thai silk is a must-buy souvenir and a timeless addition to any wardrobe. Whether you’re looking for elegant dresses, traditional scarves, or tailor-made suits, Bangkok and Pattaya offer some of the best places to purchase authentic Thai silk.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll explore the best places to buy Thai silk in Bangkok and Pattaya, tips for spotting genuine silk, and why a trusted tailor like Platinum Tailor BKK is one of the top choices for creating silk shirts, dresses, and suits.
Why Choose Thai Silk?
Thai silk is not just a fabric—it’s a piece of Thai heritage. Produced using traditional hand-weaving techniques, each piece of silk reflects the artistry of skilled weavers. Unlike machine-made alternatives, authentic Thai silk has a soft, lustrous finish and often comes in vibrant jewel tones that change in the light.
Silk from Thailand is also incredibly versatile:
- Perfect for scarves, dresses, and evening gowns
- A luxurious choice for men’s shirts and ties
- Elegant when used in tailor-made suits or jackets
- Popular for home décor items like cushions and curtains
Where to Buy Thai Silk in Bangkok
Bangkok is one of the best cities in the world to shop for silk. Here are some of the top spots:
1. Jim Thompson House & Stores
Jim Thompson is the most famous name in Thai silk. The brand offers premium-quality fabrics, scarves, ties, and ready-made fashion items. While more expensive than market finds, the quality is guaranteed.
Best for: High-end silk shopping and gifts.
2. Chatuchak Weekend Market
For budget-friendly options, head to Chatuchak Market. Many stalls sell silk products, including scarves, dresses, and cushion covers. Be mindful that not everything is 100% silk—check carefully before buying.
Best for: Bargain silk souvenirs.
3. Sampeng Lane & Chinatown
If you’re a fabric lover, Chinatown’s fabric district is a paradise. Here, you’ll find shops selling rolls of silk at wholesale prices. It’s a favorite among locals and fashion designers.
Best for: Buying silk by the meter.
4. Platinum Tailor BKK (Recommended)
If you’re looking to transform Thai silk into something unique, Platinum Tailor BKK is one of the best tailor shops in Bangkok. Located in the Platinum Shopping Mall, they have over 20 years of experience crafting high-quality suits, shirts, dresses, and formal wear.
What makes Platinum Tailor BKK stand out is their ability to work with Thai silk fabric. You can:
- Bring your own silk fabric and have it tailored into a custom shirt, dress, or evening gown
- Request a Thai silk suit or jacket for special occasions
- Order made-to-measure silk blouses and skirts
If you want an authentic and wearable Thai souvenir, Platinum Tailor BKK is the perfect place to combine Thailand’s most luxurious fabric with world-class tailoring.
Best for: Custom-made Thai silk fashion.
Where to Buy Thai Silk in Pattaya
Pattaya may be better known for beaches and nightlife, but it also offers excellent Thai silk shopping.
1. Pattaya Floating Market
This cultural market features stalls selling handmade crafts, clothing, and silk products. It’s a scenic shopping experience and a great place to find scarves, ties, and decorative silk items.
Best for: Tourists looking for authentic Thai crafts.
2. Royal Garden Plaza Pattaya
This shopping mall has boutiques that sell premium silk clothing and accessories. It’s a comfortable and reliable place to buy silk products away from the busy street markets.
Best for: Branded silk items and gifts.
3. Local Fabric Shops on South Pattaya Road
If you’re a fashion enthusiast, check out smaller fabric shops in Pattaya, where you can buy silk by the meter. These shops are ideal if you want to bring fabric back to Bangkok (or to Platinum Tailor BKK) for custom tailoring.
Best for: Silk by the meter for tailoring.
How to Spot Genuine Thai Silk
Not all silk sold in markets is authentic. Here are a few tips to ensure you’re buying the real thing:
- Touch Test: Real silk feels soft but slightly textured, not overly smooth like polyester.
- Light Test: Genuine silk shines with a two-tone effect when viewed in light.
- Burn Test: (Only for fabric samples) Real silk burns to ash with a smell like burnt hair, while synthetics melt.
- Price: Authentic Thai silk is rarely “cheap.” If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Prices of Thai Silk in 2025
- Scarves & Small Accessories: 300–1,500 THB
- Silk by the Meter: 500–2,000 THB (depending on quality)
- Tailor-Made Silk Dress/Shirt: 3,000–10,000 THB
- Custom Silk Suit: 12,000–25,000 THB+
While luxury brands cost more, tailor shops like Platinum Tailor BKK give you excellent value for money by combining custom design with authentic Thai silk.
FAQs
Q: Is Thai silk cheaper in Bangkok or Pattaya?
A: Bangkok has more variety and competitive pricing, especially at fabric markets. Pattaya offers convenience, but prices can be slightly higher.
Q: Can I bring my own silk to a tailor?
A: Yes. Shops like Platinum Tailor BKK allow you to bring silk fabric and have it tailored into shirts, dresses, or suits.
Q: Is Thai silk worth buying?
A: Absolutely. It’s a luxury fabric that lasts for decades if cared for properly, making it a timeless investment.
Conclusion
Whether you’re shopping in Bangkok’s bustling markets or Pattaya’s cultural centers, Thai silk is a must-buy souvenir and fashion investment. From scarves and ties to luxurious dresses and suits, the options are endless.
For those who want something truly special, a visit to Platinum Tailor BKK is highly recommended. With their expertise in tailoring Thai silk into elegant shirts, dresses, and suits, you’ll not only take home a piece of Thailand—but also wear it with pride. The best tailor in bangkok.