Digital Cover Story: Modern Simplicity with Thai actress, Thanaerng
Thai actress, Thanaerng Kanyawee Songmuang makes a fresh fashion statement in Bottega Veneta’s Fall/Winter 2024 collection. Inspired by global cultures, the collection reimagines everyday wear for modern women with sharp, minimalist designs crafted from exceptional materials. The colour palette and patterns evoke the spirit of travel and sunset, creating an effortless and sophisticated contemporary sensibility
The captivating presence and distinctive charms of Thanaerng Kanyawee Songmuang have propelled her into the limelight, where she flourishes as an actress and model. Her breakthrough role in 2014’s Hormones: The Series — Season 2 ignited her rise, leading to prominent spots across television, film and fashion. A versatile talent, Thanaerng constantly works hard on her craft. In fact, in 2019, Thanaerng was L’OFFICIEL SINGAPORE’s August issue cover girl. Now, five years later, the actress is collaborating with us again, dressed in the impeccable designs of Bottega Veneta by Matthieu Blazy.
Thanaerng’s energy is palpable at our Thonburi studio appointment. As she effortlessly showcases each Bottega Veneta ensemble, her innate style and the brand’s exquisite leather craftsmanship converge. It is evident why she, along with Thai actor Dew Jirawat, was chosen to represent the luxury label. Thanaerng’s personality is the perfect fit for the brand’s aesthetic, and in February, she was invited to the house’s Fall/Winter 2024 show in Milan.
“The call came as a complete surprise. My intrigue was sparked the moment I received the news. Subsequent conversations with the team revealed an exciting proposition: creative freedom to express my style. The opportunity to experiment and be authentically myself was incredibly appealing,” she says.
When asked how she enjoyed watching the show live in Milan, she responds, “The show had its own vibe: relaxed and open. They truly respected everyone’s style; there were no fashion ‘boxes’. Working with the global team was amazing. I loved experiencing different cultures, especially the warmth of the Italians.”
“The attention to detail was impressive, from handcrafted elements to thoughtful touches like custom-made chairs with a glass cactus sign. It was evident in every aspect, even the welcome gift I received on the first night of arriving at the hotel: a Murano glass piece from Venice, a place famous for its glass-making, showcases their appreciation for quality and local craftsmanship. The cactus on the glass linked to the large one sitting on the stage. They connected everything,” she adds.
Thanaerng concludes, “Bottega Veneta stays true to its signature style. They don’t follow trends blindly but set their own pace. The passing years have not made them lose themselves.” This timeless quality resonates with her personality and this is what she feels makes the brand unique.
"THESE DAYS, I FEEL MORE calm IN MANY WAYS. I AM MORE patient, MAYBE BECAUSE I AM GETTING OLDER AND HAVE MORE experiences. BUT I STILL FIND fun IN LEARNING NEW THINGS."
Blessed with a discerning sense of fashion, the actress is known for effortlessly mixing and matching styles, always creating statement looks. “I plan outfits based on the day’s activities, fusing ideas freely. Comfort is key, especially with all the movement on set. Ultimately, fashion is personal. I focus on what suits my body and the occasion, and what feels right.”
The star has a good head on her stylish shoulders too. While Thanaerng initially pursued a degree in textiles and fashion, she made a switch and studied philosophy, politics and economics at Thammasat University’s College of Interdisciplinary Studies. This powerful combination of disciplines has added an unexpected dimension to her career. “I have a strong interest in both fashion and the humanities. During high school, I struggled to decide what path to pursue. Initially, I chose fashion with creative aspects such as painting and drawing. However, due to time constraints, I shifted my focus to philosophy, politics and economics, which I believe provide a foundation for understanding society as a whole. Philosophy is the bedrock of my intellectual pursuits. It sharpens critical thinking and provides a framework for understanding the world. Politics involves everyone as the dynamic interplay of power and society. Economics informs how societies manage resources in our daily lives,” she explains.
This hardworker’s secret to being productive? “That inspiration is my cats,” she says with a giggle. Once driven by personal aspirations, she now balances self-fulfilment with caring for her felines. “I joke that I work to feed my nine cats [laughs]. I enjoy trying new things for myself but when I have nine cats to take care of… I still do it for myself, but I also think: ‘What would my cats eat if I don’t work?’ Their appetites are insatiable and their numbers keep climbing!” she says with her eyes lighting up as she describes her cherished companions.
L’OFFICIEL ventures to ask her: How do you take care of yourself when you work this much? Thanaerng responds, “Self care is a recent priority. Growing up, it wasn’t a focus. But as I chose to pursue my dreams as a model, the demands on my body intensified. Constant makeup, sleep deprivation and the fear of ageing sparked a need for pampering. Exercise is a new addition to my routine; it’s a work in progress, and I’m committed to prioritising my well-being.”
As for what lies ahead, the actress is thrilled to announce her involvement in a horror-comedy film, which is slated for release later this year. Joining her on screen are Ter Chantavit, Daou Pittaya and more. She is eagerly anticipating how her fans will embrace this new project.
Looking at how far she’s come, the star says, “These days, I feel more calm in many ways. I am more patient, maybe because I am getting older and have more experiences. But I still find fun in learning new things. My focus now is on maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal well-being.”
Photography PANNATAT AENGCHUAN
Styling WATCHARACHAI NUN-NGAM
Hair BANJAPORN KAMPAB
Makeup JEERA JAREONTHAMASUK
Photography assistants KRIDSANAPOL PETJARUS, NUTTAPON MANSUKPHOL, TAWIN MANAJIT, and YODBOON SATYALAKHA
Styling assistants TISAKORN KUNCHORNNOK, PONGSAKORN TREETEPA, and GUNN RUENGPRAPAN
Production AKEERA SASUNGNERN
