Lisa dazzles in Balmain gown inspired by late Queen
Stepping into her new role as the Amazing Thailand Ambassador for 2026, Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal stunned crowds in a Balmain Haute Couture gown inspired by the wardrobe of Her Majesty the late Queen Sirikit.
The K-pop superstar from the girl group Blackpink strode through Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchaworamahaviharn in Bangkok on Wednesday, marking the official launch of the “Feel All the Feelings” campaign by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
The campaign aims to transform the tourism landscape of Thailand from just another typical tourist haunt to a quality leisure destination.
Lisa’s stunning golden gown tells a story that reaches far beyond the red carpet — one of cultural diplomacy woven in silk and preserved in fashion’s most prestigious archives.
The piece, a meticulous revival from Balmain’s storied collection, traces its lineage to the original Nuit à Londres gown from Pierre Balmain’s Haute Couture Spring/Summer 1960 collection, originally created for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother.
Photo: PR Thai Government
What emerges is a testament to one of fashion’s most extraordinary partnerships. Pierre Balmain’s relationship with the Thai royal court extended far beyond business, extending over 20 years of collaboration that would define an era of Thai-French cultural exchange.
The designer’s creations for Her Majesty, many of which remain on display at the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles in Bangkok, became instruments of cultural diplomacy, bridging nations through the universal language of fashion.
The gown itself speaks to this legacy with every carefully considered detail. Crafted entirely from Thai silk, the strapless silhouette flows into a commanding train, while the accompanying stole demonstrates Balmain’s mastery of architectural pleating and couture construction.
Traditional Thai textile prints are seamlessly integrated into the bandeau and sleeves, creating a visual dialogue between French haute couture techniques and Thailand’s rich textile heritage.
Photo: PR Thai Government
Lisa’s styling choices further honour this cross-cultural narrative. Bvlgari’s ruby-embellished jewellery echoes the ruby embroidery that adorns the gown, while her gold-inlaid clutch from the Thai brand Jasmina Collection completes a look that celebrates both the artisanal excellence of multiple cultures and the enduring power of fashion as cultural ambassador.
Source – Bangkok News
