Fly Now
FLY NOW has been a staple clothing line on the Thai high-end fashion scene for the last 26 years. From Bangkok to London with Paris and Madrid in between, director Somchai Songwatana and his partner, designer Chamnan Pakdeesuk have grown their brand from a local boutique business into an international label recognised throughout Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Director’s Stephanie Roy sits down with them to discuss how innovative thinking and risks taking have resulted in their continued success.
What was life like before FLY NOW and when did you meet?
Somchai: Before fashion design I just wanted to study business and become a businessman in the traditional sense. I eventually realised my passion for fashion and that it was something I loved and enjoyed. As a result, I started a small clothing line back in 1983. Chamnan was my first recruit and I could see there was something more to this young designer. I felt from the beginning that I’d known him for quite some time.
Chamnan: Before FLY NOW, I was just a kid in high school still wearing shorts. I had ambitions of becoming either a scientist or fashion designer. I went to Somchai and applied for a design position before I had even finished high school. Although it was a daring move, Somchai saw a strong will and plenty of ambition inside of me.
