Chu Suwannapha: Chulaap

WORDS Malibongwe Tyilo IMAGES via Skattie, What Are You Wearing?

At the inaugural South African Menswear Week held in Cape Town, Chu Suwannapha presented Chulaap, a print-clashing collection inspired by African-style prints, local street style and Japanese influences like origami.

Chu first launched his Chulaap label over two decades ago in his native Thailand. Unfortunately (and fortunately for us) it took a backseat when he moved on to work as a stylist and to study at ESMOD PARIS. He ended up spending nearly a decade in the city of lights before moving to South Africa 14 years ago.

Although this is the first range that he has shown here, Chu Suwannapha is no stranger to the fashion industry. Since moving to SA, he has worked as a stylist, fashion editor, and is currently fashion director for YOU, Huisgenoot and Drum. His own personal style is well documented in local fashion magazines and street style blogs. He’s been dubbed the ‘King of Prints’ and affectionately, ‘Prints Charming’.

The range itself reflects his talent when it comes to working with prints. However, he took it further than anything his own personal style has reflected so far at South African Menswear Week. The show itself received a standing ovation that is rarely seen at fashion shows. The entire room rose to their feet in acknowledgement that their expectations had not only been met, but had also been exceeded.