The photographs above and below came from one of Chiang Mai's less well-known flea markets on Bamrungrat Road behind Prince Royals College.
Believing they must be younger due to their decent condition and the girls' western apparel, I thought they were an interesting puzzle about fashion history. Clues lie in their clothing, the tiered platform on which they stand, the square runway, and the stage in the background.
Shy expressions on most of their faces suggest they are amateurs in front of the camera. It appears these are young, northern Thai ladies dressed up for a photo-shoot, a runway show, or small town beauty competition. 
The photographs' subtle differences have kept me guessing who the girls are and what was the occasion for the shoot.
They wear A-line skirts or dresses to the mid calf that are high waisted with belts and blouses or alternatively dress suits with matching jacket and skirt. All the ladies wear open toed sandal pumps with an ankle strap.
Each girl is pinned at the waist with a numbered ribbon. They hold the same accessory that reflects Thai cultural influence: the parasol or sun umbrella.
It rests lightly over each girl's right shoulder and the handle is in her right hand. The underside of the umbrella catches the sunshine and shades a bit to create a kind of halo behind each girl who holds it in this way.
The photographs' subtle differences have kept me guessing who the girls are and what was the occasion for the shoot.~~~*~~~
Parasol image from ioffer.com, item featured by seller at thaicraftstore.ioffer.com
Whether they are made of fabric or painted saa paper, traditional Thai parasols make handsome decorations and shade from heat of the sunshine or strong indoor lights. However, synthetic versions function better in rain or shine, and protect from sun damage in Asia where light skin is highly attractive. Many Thai women use all kinds of lightening lotions these days to achieve this look, even if darker skinned American singer Beyonce is a popular beauty icon here too.
Those old photos are a great find!!! Very interesting. I enjoy your blog
ReplyDeleteGreat to see old photographs in Chiang Mai. I wonder if there is a local photographic resource of old photographs?
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