Cambodian silk has a long history that is closely intertwined with the country’s economy and daily life.
Unfortunately, ever since the Khmer Rouge rose to power in the 1970s, the tradition and industry slowly faded. I want to shed light on these seven designers and boutiques found across Cambodia because of their specific focus on Cambodian silk and its precious beauty.
If you are interested in learning more about the fascinating silk production process, there are many tours available in Cambodia where you can see silk worms and weavers in action. Understanding the silk industry will give you a greater appreciation for the items that you buy.
Artisans Angkor
Stung Thmey Street, Siem Reap 17259 Cambodia
Artisans Angkor is a key actor in revitalizing the traditional arts and crafts of Cambodian culture. After Khmer Rouge, the preservation and revitalization of Cambodian culture was facilitated by many organizations like Artisans Angkor. Their specific focus is on silk production and you can even get a free guided tour of their facilities. When you support Artisans Angkor, your proceeds will go to rural employees who work in fair conditions and truly love their craft. If you want to learn more about the silk process as well as giving back, this is the best boutique for you.
Muoy Chorm
Muoy Chorm is an incredible designer who comes from a humble fishing and farming background in Siem Reap. His clothes center around organic designs that are heavily influenced by his native environment. For many of his collections, Chorm partners with local artisans and gives proceeds to local Cambodian schools. There are several ways that you can support Muoy’s work either with custom design orders, attending a fashion show, or ordering from their online store. Muoy’s designs are effortless, chic, and 100% Khmer.
Dorsu
Dorsu focuses on sustainable fashion with ethical working conditions. According to their website, the garment industry accounts for nearly 80% of Cambodia’s exports. Many of the industry’s employees suffer from dangerous and harsh working conditions. Dorsu aims to break that cycle while creating minimalist, high-quality clothes with Cambodian textiles. They want to see the industry change, you can support their mission by buying online or visiting their shop in Kampot, Cambodia.
Un été à Kep-sur-Mer
023 A STREET 51 Phnom Penh, Cambodia
This small sister-owned boutique is influenced by 1960s chic fashion from Cambodia and France. Since Cambodian weather is very hot and humid, most of their designs are breathable and comfortable with charming patterns. If you love to wear wrap dresses and loose buttoned down shirts as well as experiment with bright summer colors, this quaint boutique is a must.
La Chhouk Recycled & Creative Fashion
#587, Oknha Kleang Mueng Blvd, Sangkat Tuol Sangke, Khan Russey Keo Phnom Penh, Cambodia 855
Sustainability, high fashion, inclusion, and creativity. La Chhouk is a brand like no other. Their designs break boundaries in the world of high fashion by using recycled material from plastic bags to newspapers. While bringing attention to the environmental issues we face today, La Chhouk also creates a safe space for LGBTQ+ designers. La Chhouk’s work is truly breathtaking, elegant, and otherworldly.
Graines de Cambodge
Sivatha Road Next to fifty-five restaurant, Siem Reap 17252 Cambodia
Graines de Cambodge designs high-end jewelry made by rural Khmer women workers. Since 2011, designer Rany Som aims to empower Khmer women by providing ethical conditions and beautiful designs. Her jewelry collections are unique in the use of local seeds rather than precious stones. This brings the patron back to the Cambodian land and the elements that shape it.
Eric Rasina
The Aviary Hotel Sangkat Svaydangkum 9, Preah Sangreach Tep Vong St, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Originally from Madagascar, Eric Rasina’s designs are infused with immense international influence. The material of his designs, however, are completely Cambodian and heavily focused on silk. Rasina’s Haute Couture collections are also colorful and flexible with distinctive and varied textures. You can shop for Rasina’s pieces in Paris or Siem Reap.