Postcards From...Derek Malou in Thailand
For Derek Malou, every journey starts with curiosity. The photographer and filmmaker takes us to Thailand — talking linen, inspiration and what it really means to move through the world at your own pace.
For Derek Malou (@d_malou), every journey starts with curiosity.
A photographer, filmmaker and lifelong traveller, Derek has built a career capturing the beauty of the world around him. From remote landscapes to quiet everyday moments, his work is a reminder that inspiration can be found almost anywhere — if you're willing to look.
We joined him in Thailand, where slow mornings, tropical coastlines and endless exploration became the backdrop for our Summer Collection. Designed from premium natural fabrics and made for comfort in warmer climates, these are pieces built for movement, discovery and making the most of long summer days.
Comfort without compromise. Moving through the world at my own pace, noticing details, and allowing myself the time to enjoy them
Do you have a travel uniform?
Yes, I pretty much always wear the same when I travel. A pair of light blue jeans, a white t-shirt and a hoodie or sweatshirt.
A capsule of one. There's a quiet confidence in knowing exactly what you need before you leave the house.
What's the one (unexpected) thing that always makes it into your bag, no matter where you're going?
A newspaper — which is ironic, because I don't read newspapers. I use it as a prop in my photos. Paper has a raw, analogue presence. It creases, catches light and moves with the wind. It brings a kind of life that feels very human.
A prop, not a read. It's the kind of detail that makes a photograph feel like a moment rather than a shot — and says something about the eye behind the camera.
You're a photographer. Where do you go to find inspiration?
I mostly find my inspiration in nature. The combination of textures, colours, smells and shapes never ceases to inspire me.
Thailand, then, feels like the right place entirely. A country that doesn't hold back on any of those things.
Monaco Linen Shirt in White / Vienna Linen Trousers in Khaki / London Roundabout Swim Shorts in Burnt Orange
At Derek Rose, we believe in living as you please. What does that look like for you?
For me, it's comfort without compromise. Moving through the world at my own pace, noticing details, and allowing myself the time to enjoy them. That's a kind of freedom I value more than anything.
We couldn't have put it better ourselves.
Do you plan your trips or go with the flow when you land?
I love to collect a lot of information before visiting a new place and to be prepared. But once I arrive, I try to really go with the flow.
Research as a foundation, instinct as a guide. A sensible way to travel — and a good way to actually see somewhere.
Over or under packer?
Over packer for sure. My luggage is always overweight and I bring a ton of gear that I never use.
The cameras earn their weight. Everything else is negotiable.
Do you have any must-visits for anyone travelling to Thailand soon?
Cheow Lan Lake. This is probably one of the most insane places I have visited.
High praise from someone who has clearly seen a few places worth praising.
What Derek Rose pieces did you pack for this trip, and why?
Lots of linen. Linen is a material that is alive and I love that it keeps you cool but has such a great texture, which is good for photos — and perfect for warm countries.
Linen that photographs well and travels well. When the material does that much of the work, the rest takes care of itself.
Thailand has a way of slowing things down — in the best possible sense. The kind of place where the light arrives differently each morning and the days feel worth noticing. Derek moved through it with the ease of someone who has learned that the best moments rarely announce themselves. You just have to be comfortable enough to be present when they arrive.
Explore our men's linen collection.
Vienna Linen Shorts in Sand Stone / London Roundabout Swim Shorts in Burnt Orange
Linen Collection
