New fashion houses at Thai designer central. By Tanwa Tiammek and Top Koaysomboon

Despite the economic downturn, Siam Center (Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1000. BTS Siam) has manfully stuck to its task of providing a safe haven for young Thai and international designers to display their wares. Continuing this noble tradition, their third floor has recently welcomed three new boutiques: JNBY, Painkiller and Sibling.

Originally from Shanghai, the Chinese design house of JNBY (3/F, Siam Center, 02-252-2128) offers a collection that blends touches of Greyhound and Belgian designer Martin Margiela. Think muted tones, loose patterns and layered patchwork techniques. This, the first Bangkok branch, features a complete wardrobe of women’s wear, from clothing to accessories.

     Close by, Ae Sasikarn’s Sibling (3/F, Siam Center, 02-658-1146) lets you add a distinctly masculine touch to your wardrobe, whatever your gender. Items are minimal, though the monochrome hues (white, gray and black) are given a lift with vivid splash of color.

     Across from Sibling, you’ll find the bleached wood and black mosaic home of Painkiller (3/F, Siam Center, 02-658-1145,
painkillerbkk.wordpress.com), whose first collection was launched at the Bangkok Fashion Fair back in 2006. Though, at first glance, its range of simple, neutral men’s t-shirts and pants might seem boring, the beauty is really in the details like the cuts, patchwork and silk-screening. The store also retails Chanel 2.55-inspired bags in various colors as well as aromatic products from KarmaKamet. n