The Identity of the Natural Blue Fashion Fabric from Khokhodo Seed Dye

Abstract

This research study aimed to create the identity of the natural blue Khokhodo dye fashion and to explore the ways in which the identity of the natural blue Khokhodo dye fashion can be preserved. The research employed participatory workshop method. The data were collected from literature review and group discussions. The research findings were as follows: In creating the identity of the natural blue Khokhodo dye fashion, the participants have learnt the contents concerning the natural blue Khokhodo dye fashion of Pga K’nyau tribal people in Mae Hong Son province. The Khokhodo seeds were used for dye extraction and prepared into different shades of dyeing colors through various processes. The identity of natural blue Khokhodo dye was brought into the fashion. Through theoretical study of designing and through inspirations to design, the participants were able to make use of the identity of Pga K’nyau tribal people in terms of unique blouse structure and blend into fashionable women casual wares. The participants were also able to design and sew impressively. This study proposed the conservation of the identity of the natural blue Khokhodo dye fashion in 3 ways. The first way would be that there should be constant research on how to conserve the genetic property of Khokhodo trees, as a rare and beneficial species, so as to be a property of the tribal people. There should be trainings focusing on the expansion of the usage of natural blue Khokhodo dye for Pga K’nyau tribal people as well as people in other tribes around the country. Doing this could help preserving and developing the process of natural dying of Khokhodo and could generate income among tribal people. The second means of preserving the identity of Pga K’nyau tribe would be the support and encouragement for the Pga K’nyau people, especially young people, so that they realize and maintain their unique identity. If this aspect is ignored, the tribal identity will gradually diminish and that will affect the people’s lifestyle in all dimensions. Finally, the identity of tribal people should be transformed into  cultural identity to be applied in fashion designs in creative economy,  which is compatible with the sustainable living under His Majesty the King’s principle of sufficiency economy.