DEVELOPMENT OF TEXTILE IDENTITY FOR ECONOMY OF BURIRAM PROVINCE LEADING TO CONTEMPORARY FASHION PRODUCTS

Abstract

This research aimed to develop contemporary fashion products based on the textile identity of Buriram Province's local economic fabrics. Data were collected through interviews with 30 key informants, including textile experts and practitioners, as well as surveys of 400 individuals comprising vendors, consumers, and Gen-Y tourists. The findings revealed that in the research area, Khok Sa-at Subdistrict, Lam Plai Mat District, Buriram Province, the traditional social context featured a strong transmission of weaving culture among women, who learned textile craftsmanship from their ancestors. These woven fabrics were used in daily life, rituals, and religious ceremonies. For example, silk and sarongs were commonly used in wedding ceremonies as symbolic gifts for elders. The fabrics were also processed into various cultural products to add value. Materials used included silk and cotton fibers, with the Hang Ka Rok (squirrel-tail) weaving technique and the popular Mat-mee Teen Daeng (ikat red feet) weaving technique. Natural dyes were commonly used, with Sarongs typically feature dark tones using five primary colors: blue, red, purple, orange, and green. Based on these findings, the researchers developed contemporary fashion products. The top three most favorably rated products were: shoulder bags ( = 4.36, S.D. = 0.79), handbags  = 4.35, S.D. = 0.81), and the second set of men’s formal wear ( = 4.15, S.D. = 0.91). These products were deemed suitable for further development, with the potential to become attractive new items that add economic value and generate income for local communities, the province, and the nation.