Why is black attire in high demand in Thailand? 

In Buriram province, about 400 km from Bangkok, local apparel shops have completely sold out of black clothing. A manager at the Chanarbhorn apparel store, who identified herself as Tukta, told The Straits Times that factories had run out of black T-shirts and could not accept new orders.

Another vendor, Turnjai Khamkawl, said her stock of black Chitralada dresses, traditional Thai silk outfits worn during royal ceremonies, had also sold out. 

Thailand in mourning

Queen Sirikit passed away on October 24 at the age of 93. Revered as the “Mother of the Nation,” Queen Sirikit was known for her decades-long efforts to promote Thai culture, traditional crafts and rural development.

Her passing has prompted an official national mourning period, with government officials and citizens donning black or subdued colours to pay their respects. The Straits Times reported that sales of black blouses, dresses, polos and shirts have skyrocketed to levels not seen since 2016, when King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s death prompted a similar mourning period.

Following the Queen Mother’s death, the Thai government declared a 30-day national mourning period, during which national flags will be flown at half-mast. According to Euronews, civil servants and government officials are required to wear black mourning attire for one year, while the public is encouraged to wear black, white, or muted colours for 90 days.

Queen Sirikit was the widow of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Thailand’s longest-reigning monarch, and the mother of the current king, Maha Vajiralongkorn. 

What changes for travellers?

Despite the solemn atmosphere, Euronews reported that Thailand remains open and welcoming to visitors. Hotels, attractions, restaurants and transport services continue to operate normally, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Travellers may notice mourning symbols such as portraits of the Queen Mother decorated with flowers and candles, particularly in Bangkok and at major royal sites. The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew will be closed to visitors from 26 October to 8 November for royal ceremonies, with further closures possible closer to the Queen Mother’s funeral next year.

Most festivals and public events are expected to go ahead, though some may be adjusted to reflect the national mood. Fireworks and parades during celebrations such as New Year’s Eve may be scaled back, with organisers including moments of silence or candle-lighting ceremonies.

Traditional holidays like Loy Krathong on 5 November will still be observed, although festivities may be more subdued. In Chiang Mai, where the festival is known as Yi Peng and marked by thousands of floating lanterns, celebrations are expected to continue.

How to be a respectful visitor?

Tourists are not required to wear black, but Euronews noted that subdued colours are appreciated, particularly when visiting temples, royal sites or government offices. White, also regarded as a mourning colour, is equally acceptable.

For those wishing to show respect, black ribbons that can be pinned to clothing are widely available. Officials have reminded visitors to dress modestly, covering up when entering restaurants, shops or cafés, and to keep noise levels low near memorials or portraits of the Queen Mother.

There are no restrictions on nightlife or alcohol sales, though officials have urged visitors to remain sensitive to the national mood, especially outside entertainment zones.