The Bangkok event aims to broaden the perspective of the local fashion industry.

Before the show last night, Chanel's regional marketing manager for the Fashion Division, Stephanie Donnet-Couette, explained how Chanel had maintained its standing in the modern fashion industry in a talk entitled "The Spirit of Living Brand".

The talk, attended by 200 fashion enthusiasts and students, was organised by The Emporium to further educate people on international fashion brands.

"She [Chanel] cultivated the sense of being oneself and setting new trends," Donnet-Couette said, adding that Chanel had revolutionised women's wear by introducing items like cardigans and suits, which were traditionally meant for men, in the early 20th century.

Last night, the Chanel collection, consisting of 40 or so outfits designed by Karl Lagerfeld, were an eye-opener for the local industry because it showcased everything Chanel is best known for in terms of jackets, gowns and accessories, all with Lagerfeld's very own personal touches.

Events today will also feature international speakers from Harper's Bazaar in New York.

The event is divided into four parts: fashion shows at the Thailand Creative and Design Centre (TCDC) from stalwarts like Chanel, Chloe, Kenzo and Valentino; a fashion showcase at the Motion Hall on the ground floor of The Emporium; a fashion party; and a symposium at the TCDC auditorium.

Organised by The Emporium shopping mall, with The Nation as its media partner, the event will wrap up on Tuesday with a runway show by Valentino, which will be a swan song for the designer after his 45 years in the fashion industry.

Though the government has put the Bangkok Fashion City project on the shelf, the private sector, including The Emporium, is keen to continue boosting the local fashion industry, with hopes of turning Bangkok into a fashion hub like Milan or Paris.