Belmond launches Art & Fashion in Motion 2018 – collaboration with local artists to bring guests closer to contemporary Asian culture.
Art and Fashion meet travel as two of the nostalgic carriages receive an artist’s makeover by Thai artist, Somnuek (Parn) Klangnok; with whimsical drawings evoking a sense of fantasy; and celebrating the glamour of travel, Thai fashion designer, Vvon Sugunnasil introduces stylish new uniforms.
Celebrating 25 years of iconic rail journeys this year, Eastern & Oriental Express embodies the golden age of romantic rail travel mixing old world glamour with new cutting-edge designs and modern artwork – contemporary nostalgia.
ROLLING CANVASES
Rolling throughout South East Asia; Parn’s creations are inspired by the magical sensation of travelling in a fantasy world; inspired by Parn’s personal experience of travelling aboard Eastern & Oriental Express.
Commenting on his work: “Travelling with Eastern &Oriental Express was a magical experience. From beginning to end, I was pampered by gracious service and amazing food & drink. As dramatic landscapes and intriguing cultures lined the way, everything appeared in a different light of enchantment.”
The artwork depicts an ethereal world of Princes & Princesses, adorned with beautiful flowers, travelling in their joyful fantasy world for eternity – celebrating the Art of Living Well.
FASHIONING A NEW ERA
Drawing inspiration from the Golden Age of Fashion, emerging talent, Thattaworn Sugunnasil’s has created a new collection of uniforms featuring French tailoring, an art developed during his time in Paris.
Founder and Creative Director of Vvon Sugunnasil, Thattaworn is the designer of choice for high fashionistas of Thailand with his designs featuring regularly in the pages of the top glossy magazines.
Commenting on his work: “My ideas for the Eastern & Oriental Express uniforms are inspired by the actual travel experience which is of a level beyond luxury; sensual onboard refinement and inspiring views along the way.”
The silhouettes frame a minimalist interpretation of classic Oriental style with sabai draping necklines, prominent buttons, and subtle adornments.
Individual uniforms are specifically designed for each area of the train; the Bar Manager is attired in elegant emerald silk whilst the Train Manager will wear a bespoke single-breasted charcoal suit. In the dining cars, waiters wear classic white shirts and black trouser ensembles with sharp lines for a contemporary twist. The train’s pianist, who is a legend aboard the rails, will wear striking red velvet – all featuring classic tailoring that reflects the timeless luxury of rail travel.
ROMANTIC LUXURY
Eastern & Oriental Express travels on one of the most magical and memorable routes in the world, travelling through stunning scenery from Singapore through Malaysia and across central and southern Thailand, to and from Bangkok.
With its iconic green and gold carriages and elegant interiors evoking the nostalgia and glamour of a bygone era, the train carries just 82 guests in ensuite air-conditioned cabins with two dining cars, a bar car and outdoor observation car from which to enjoy the scenic landscapes of Southeast Asia.
The chef draws inspiration from the route of the travels, for fine dining with added with contemporary twists. Dedicated 24-hour steward service ensures guests’ every comfort is attended to and off-board excursions add extra dimensions to the experience. The ultimate in slow travel, Eastern & Oriental Express whisks guests away from the fast pace of everyday life for a peerless adventure on the rails.