In the Mood

“The categories that we like to put people in are too restrictive and make them feel that they have to choose – that they have to belong to a group who shares the same codes, the same references and the same tastes. But fashion should be the opposite. It should allow people to be free to mix different influences, colours, fabrics and styles.”

This fusion of influences and styles is beautifully apparent in designer Olivia Gurdjian’s kimono brand, Bubble Mood.

Drawing on her Parisian roots while navigating a new life in Shanghai’s fashion world, Gurdjian dreamt of creating a piece at the crossroads of Asia and Europe and, more precisely, between Asia and France. The classic kimono proved to be the perfect choice with its iconic Asian silhouette and ability to adapt to Western-influenced colours, prints and patterns.

“After my first couple of collections, I fully realised how versatile this iconic piece was and how it became an essential part of one’s wardrobe, such as a jacket or a trench, so I started to ‘play’ with it,” says Gurdjian. “The kimono also fits all kind of bodies, which made me love it even more. I like the idea of doing something that every woman can wear.”

While living in Shanghai for a decade, Gurdjian frequently spent time in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Thailand moving to the latter two years ago for a change of pace and new inspiration. When asked what about the Land of Smiles inspires her work, Gurdjian is quick to answer.

“One aspect is the way time passes. Chiang Mai is one of the few places I know where people can actually take their time to create – the rhythm is very specific to Chiang Mai and very inspiring. Another aspect is the infinite shades of light here. Each season brings new shades of light and colour that are incredibly bright but never quite the same.”

“Northern Thailand’s landscapes are also a significant source of inspiration. Maybe it’s because I used to live in big cities, so my eyes are still relatively new at observing nature – and especially tropical nature – that I never get tired of it. I am blessed to be surrounded by this beauty.”

Bubble Mood’s latest collection, MONSOON, just released in February, is an ode to this inspiration and has made the kimono even more wearable morphing from primarily loungewear into a wider range of silhouettes that are still loose yet fitted at the waist while incorporating both bright and subtle hues.  

“I want all women to be comfortable in Bubble Mood’s pieces which is why I have expanded this latest collection to incorporate different designs and shapes,” says Gurdjian. “The MONSOON collection keeps Bubble Mood’s core resort-wear and summery DNA while adding new urban pieces that can be worn on a more daily basis.”

Whether you’re drawn to Bubble Mood’s bright kaftans or prefer a more minimalist, structured blouse, you’re sure to find a piece that fits your style while leaving you feeling fresh in Thailand’s tropical heat.  

Find a Fit for Your Mood

Bubble Mood’s newest collection, MONSOON, is now available online at bubble-mood.com.

While travelling in Thailand, you can also find the brand available at resorts such as Trisara in Phuket (trisara.com) and Kamalaya Koh Samui (kamalaya.com) or in Bangkok at the trendy multi-label shop, Statement (facebook.com/statementofficialbkk).