Some people make their mark on fashion by adopting a “less is more” philosophy, centering their aesthetic on understated minimalism—Araya “Chompoo” Hargate is not one of those people. The Thai actress and star of lakorns—campy romantic dramas not unlike telenovelas—has become a red carpet fixture known for her unapologetically glamorous approach to style. Playfully dubbing herself a “material girl,” Hargate loves colorful couture, quirky accessories, and the kind of jewelry that would make Elizabeth Taylor jealous. More is more in Hargate’s world, and her gleeful appreciation of clothes makes her a joy to watch. Sure, most people aren’t going to take to the streets in a full Chanel look, or ride the elevator in layers of lace and ruffles from Thai label Tohns, but boy, does Hargate make it look natural.
During couture, Hargate was front and center at all the big shows, taking in favorites like Dior, Elie Saab, Atelier Versace, and Jean Paul Gaultier, while dressed in pieces straight from the runway. Whether it was an embroidered windbreaker from Raf Simons’s final Dior collection (worn with Adidas sneakers) or a sculptural Giambattista Valli dress, Hargate pulled out all the stops. Sharing behind-the-scenes pictures with designers, videos direct from the runway, and a few of her favorite looks, Hargate is an insider, but she’s also a fan. Summing up her fashion philosophy on social media with a picture of her Paris hotel room and a rack filled with designer wares, Hargate may have put it best: “It’s couture, baby!”