Although enterprises like The Emporium have arranged shows, the country still needs government support and cooperation among the private sector.
With the government no longer supporting the Bangkok Fashion City project, Siam Paragon, the Emporium and Central have taken up the slack.
However, these have all been arranged independently and separately.
The Emporium Fashion Showcase 2008 was the first time international labels like Chanel, Chlo, Kenzo and Valentino exhibited together.
Elle Fashion Week at CentralWorld is held annually, showing the most talented local designers.
Khunying Natthika Wattanavekin Angubolkul believes the country has the potential to become a fashion centre. She said there should be opportunities for fashion talent here and help from the government. But she wishes fashion shows were more integrated.
"Most shows in Thailand are arranged separately, but it would be better if local brands could also have shows together with international ones. It would create more impact," she said.
Pimpreecha Deesawadi said Thailand's ambition might be a bit much. "It's difficult, because people in this country still view fashion as a luxury, not art," Pimpreecha said.
Christian Piat, vice president of Kenzo Asia, is more optimistic, saying Thailand had creativity, potential markets and the materials to work with.
"If import duties are reduced, more people could afford our clothes," he said.
As many as 200 students attended a Chanel symposium. Fashion students were taught the importance of fashion. Many were impressed with the intricacies and detail that goes into a Chanel item.
"Chanel is a real brand of quality. You can see by their method of trimming. It is made with quality. That is why it has been around for so long," said Sarunphon Chairin, 20, a student from Bangkok University.
Yesterday, Kenzo showed its daring, exquisite jungle collection, with bright, contrasting colours, sequins and wild flowers. The Emporium show wraps up tomorrow with Valentino, a swansong for the designer after 45 years.
