Fashion designer Thakoon Panichgul is well-versed in design, as well as media. Born in Thailand, raised in Omaha, and now New York-based, Panichgul launched a designer collection that integrated eclectic distinct influences with dynamic ingenuity. His work is an examination of innovative construction. His collection imparts a feminine spirit, poised elegance, and an underlying hint of playful wit. Upon earning a business degree at Boston University, Panichgul moved to New York to begin his career in fashion—first in production, then merchandising—laying the foundation for his expertise and background in the business. In media, he began his fashion career at Harper’s Bazaar magazine, honing in on editorial skills by tracing trends, curating developed fashion columns, and making a name for himself in the industry. Eventually, he decided to try his hand at design, leading him to enroll at Parsons School of Design.

In September 2004, Thakoon presented his first ready-to-wear collection, quickly becoming one of fashion’s most celebrated talents to emerge from the New York scene. In 2006 Thakoon was one of 3 recipients of the Vogue/CFDA Fashion Fund and also has been nominated by the CFDA for the Swarovski Award for Best Emerging Womenswear Designer. He developed a following and created a unique niche, consistently showing collections of beautifully crafted, feminine designs which are as romantic and sensual as they are modern and intelligent. The brand exploded into the mainstream when First Lady Michele Obama wore a range of his colorful printed frocks during her husband, Barack Obama’s first presidential campaign. Panichgul is fascinated by decorative ideas that spin out of constructing clothes.

Panichgul recently returned back to his editorial roots, launching multi-media style platform, HommeGirls, in 2019. What started off as a zine on social media quickly grew into a printed bi-annual style magazine that quickly gained a cult following. Having defined the space in menswear for women, the brand launched a small capsule collection of classic pieces devoted to tomboy confidence but, ultimately, exuding femininity. With HommeGirls, Panichgul continues to push boundaries, making him a true visionary in the world of fashion.