Growing up, the Barong Tagalog was something I associated with what Filipino men wore on formal occasions, like attending graduations and weddings–or maybe even to the office, if one worked in a law firm or in government. Beyond that I never really saw the barong worn much. But there was always something I found so beautiful about it, with its delicate callado embroidery and sheer natural piña fiber. Over the years I’ve incorporated the Barong Tagalog in a number of my designs, and have often worn a redesigned barong on a number of occasions with my favorite well-worn jeans.
So how do I love the Barong? Let me count the ways…
An original Barong Tagalog (image from Filipino costumes)
A Barong Tagalog-inspired flapper dress with silk chiffon fringe
A Barong Tagalog and jersey gown with plunging v-neckline
A Barong Tagalog-inspired silk chiffon gown with halter neckline
A Barong Tagalog meets Baro’t Saya bridal gown
Wearing my Lolo’s barong with a lace skirt & woven cummerbund I designed
(Marie-Claire shoot ‘outtake’, make-up Barbi Chan, photographer Pat Dy)
Tippi! I love the v-neck with jersey! The wedding gown – hands down – my favorite! And, of course, your lolo’s barong with cummerbund!!
Ruby, wow, thank you so much! Yay! Okay, I got your text–will make your designs with that in mind…excited.