Formal Thai national costume

[citation needed] The men's national costume is known as suea phraratchathan (เสื้อพระราชทาน Thai pronunciation: [sɯ̂a.pʰrá.râat.tɕʰa.tʰaan], lit.

It was designed to serve as a national costume by royal tailors including Chupat Chuto, Phichai Watsanasong, and Sompop Louilarpprasert for King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1979, and was subsequently given to General Prem Tinsulanonda, then the Minister of Defense, to promote and wear in public.

[1][2] Prem remained the shirt's most recognised wearer, although it has been adopted by many, especially politicians and civil officials, on special occasions.

The suea phraratchathan is specified as having a standing (Mandarin) collar 3.5 to 4 centimetres in height, being slightly tapered at the sides, hemmed at the edges of the collar, placket and sleeves, with five round flat buttons covered with a material identical or similar to that of the shirt.

The long-sleeved versions should have 4 to 5 centimetres-wide cuffs of the same material as the shirt, and the sash, when used, should be knotted at the left side.

They are known as Chut Thai Ruean-Ton, Chitlada, Amarin, Boromphiman, Chakkri, Dusit, Chakkraphat and Siwalai.

The sbai on top, wrapped in the traditional style (draped over one shoulder and leaving the other bare), is produced using a weaving technique called "yok".

The skirt and blouse are sewn together like a one piece dress of which style is suitable for a tall and slender wearer.

Considered more conservative and formal than Chakkri, the costume can only be worn for very important royal or national ceremonies.

It can be worn with a long sleeved silk blouse, with the front opening attached with five ornamental silver or gold buttons.