Size doesn't matter... at least when it comes to shopping malls

When it comes to shopping or finding a place for an after-work meal with friends, most people usually end up at Bangkok’s major shopping malls, like Siam Paragon or Emporium, out of sheer habit thanks to their convenient BTS-connected locations and volume of options.

But in recent months -- particularly during the red shirt protests -- the city’s more intimate neighborhood lifestyle complexes have grown dramatically in popularity. Of the many new ‘mini-malls’ that have popped up around the city, verifiably the hottest of the moment is K Village. 

Located on Sukhumvit Soi 26, K Village’s two low-rise buildings have an airy and welcoming feel thanks to an alfresco area and a handful of green spaces. And despite its modest size, the selection of shops is impressive enough to lure in the throngs of jaded mall rats and discerning shoppers.

Fashionable advantage

For one, this lifestyle hotspot only stocks lesser-known chic labels. There are over 50 shops offering an eclectic mix of fashion and accessories, most of them locally owned. This is where K-Village has a serious advantage over Bangkok’s larger malls, which are dominated by the usual upscale chains that can be found anywhere in the world.

“Back to nature” seems to be the idea behind Seaquin, the brainchild of Arachaya Samutkojorn, who has a penchant for organic cotton and linen. The Muji-esque label sells earth-toned, minimalist apparel. Be it a crocheted tank top, white cotton sundress, linen shorts or loose cotton blouse, Seaquin’s style is refined but laid back at the same time.

All About Accessories, like the name suggests, sells well-chosen bits and pieces including headbands, bangles, necklaces, earrings and shoes. Pet owners are flocking to Animal-Go-Round, which is stuffed with adorable pet accessories such as leather collars and leads, knitted hoods and even fluffy tutus for your baby chihuahua.

'It' shop of the moment

For haircuts, hit The Lounge. This stylish salon is the "it" shop of the moment as it’s run by top model Metinee “Lukkade” Kingpayome and famed hair stylists Somporm “Kai” Tirin, Porntep “Rang” Wanpate. The ladies love this place thanks to the presence of heartthrob celebrity hairstylist Tony Rakkaen, whose haircuts start at 1,000 baht a pop.

In terms of restaurants, K Village has a great selection of  French, Japanese, Korean, Italian, Thai and Vietnamese eateries as well as a Gourmet outlet for grocery shoppers. The place with the most buzz right now is Wine Connection Deli & Bistro. This L-shaped space has quickly become a hot after-work hangout among well-dressed professionals who come for the affordable vino, well-chosen dishes and delicious cold cuts and cheese.

K Village regularly hosts events in its complex. On right now is Dress Code's "Spirit in the City," on till July 12. Patrons can watch World Cup games, sip cooling cocktails, nibble finger food and listen to concerts by popular artists.

Getting there

93,95 Sukumvit 26, Bangkok
Tel: +66 (0)2 258 9919-21
www.kvillagebangkok.com