Jaspal Opens in KL

For frequent Bangkok shoppers, a shopping trip to the city won’t be complete without stopping into Jaspal for some fashion fix.

Offering you the latest trends and styles without literally breaking your bank, the brand, which was conceived more than 30 years ago, has become Thailand’s answer to top international mid-range fashion brands such as Gap, Guess?, and Topshop.

Now, thirty years later after making its presence clear in every nooks and crannies of the Land of the White Elephants, Jaspal has finally made its move towards international expansion by choosing Malaysia for its first outlet outside Thailand.

Located the at the Pavilion, the new outlet sparked profound interest and a fashionable relief for its Malaysian fans who have been faithfully visiting the brand’s expansive list of stores while in Thailand.

Sporting contemporary interior with modern steel-and-glass fit outs, the Jaspal concept store is the first to be set up outside Thailand and carries complete range of clothes, accessories, shoes, as well as intimate wears for both men and women. Ever since its inception early this year, the response towards the brand by Malaysian fashionistas, as well as visiting tourists was tremendous.

If you wonder why Malaysia has been chosen as Jaspal’s launch pad towards international expansion, the reason is simple – Malaysians made part of their shoppers bulk back in Thailand and they are confident that Jaspal products will be well-received among Malaysian stylish fashionistas since they are now closer to their clients. Besides that, Jaspal clothes and accessories reflect the global fashion trends.

“Societies around the world are so much more connected these days that these trends in particular will appeal to most people,” says Jaspal Company Limited Assistant Managing Director Mr. Viseth Singhsachatet.

“However, we do localize our fashion items to suit certain aspects of Asian lifestyle and culture," he adds. "For example, size of the body, the weather, colour preference and usage, and others. We take into consideration these elements when we design."

With seven designers hired by the brand, fashion-forward consumers can look forward on an eclectic collection of clothes and accessories inspired by all sorts of things in this world, be it music, movies, parties, or whatever they could pick from trade shows and exhibitions. According to Viseth, two more stores within Klang Valley are in the pipeline and is schedule to open by the end of this year.

Now what can we expect from Jaspal this sizzling season? Revolving around five inspirations, which are the art forms, safari, the 1950's, 1970's, and the graphic 1980's, the womenswear collection for spring/summer 2008 is imbued monochromatic colours, vivid yet classic patterns such as polka dots, florals, and geometrical shapes, as well as the use of bleached denim, cotton, and chiffon in the collection.

For example, the Safari collection is a fun-filled mix and match collection featuring pieces such as the classic safari jackets, sleeveless dress, and mini dress with brown prints. On the other hand, the the 1970's collection feature paisley prints in bright and tempestuous hues on classic printed jumpsuits, cotton shirtdress, and mini-dresses.

For menswear, the idea is a mix of good rock n' roll days, sports, and a classic formal touch. Colours within the collection are subtle with black, white, grey and earthy shades of browns, plus some stripes combined as the collection's working palette, while cotton and bleached denim are the fabrics vastly used for the spring/summer 2008 lineup.

If you are into minimalism, opt for Jaspal's formal collection that boasts classic influences from the 90's. Shape fitting suits with slender collars and suits with razor sharp cuts are waiting to make their way into your men's wardrobe. For the sporty ones, easy-to-wear and funky tees, as well as hooded jackets and sleeveless tops should be part of your summer wardrobe staple this month.

Of course, what's the meaning of dressing up to the nines without completing it with accessories? Yes, a bevy of accessories are waiting with soft, oversized bags for ladies and funky high top sneakers with gold and patch embroidery for him among the highlights.

Jaspal spring/summer 2008 for men and women are available now at Jaspal Concept Store, Pavilion KL.

*Photos courtesy of Jaspal.

Jaspal - 3rd Floor, The Pavilion, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur.