Barong is for everyone
How this National Dress evolved and became a unifying symbol of style and culture
THE Barong Tagalog is a symbol of Filipino pride. It boasts a fascinating history tracing its roots back to the pre-colonial era when the Tagalog people wore loose-fitting “baro” shirts made from indigenous materials.
The Spanish arrival in the 16th century ushered in new influences. Filipinos adopted aspects of Spanish clothing, like collars and tailoring, while retaining the baro’s basic form. This fusion birthed the Barong Tagalog – a long-sleeved shirt with intricate embroidery, typically made from sheer piña fabric.
Over time, the Barong Tagalog continued to evolve. The “Barong Mahaba” (long baro), reaching the knees, eventually transformed into the shorter and more modern version we know today.
The 20th century saw a rise in the use of more affordable fabrics like jusi and even silk. Additionally, the traditional ecru or off-white color palette expanded to embrace a wider spectrum, offering a vibrant selection for the modern wearer.
The Barong Tagalog’s versatility has also broadened. Once solely formal attire for men, it’s now embraced by women as well. Modern Filipinas don stylishly tailored Barongs, adding a touch of elegance to their formal wear.
This evolution reflects the changing Filipino identity, where tradition meets contemporary style. The Barong Tagalog, transcending its origins, has become a national treasure, capturing the essence of a culture that thrives on both heritage and innovation.
Kultura echoes this sentiment by highlighting how the Barong Tagalog has evolved through the years to become the outfit of choice for many Filipinos – from office workers to the stylish set to Presidents.
It’s not surprising as the Barong’s lightweight fabric, sleek shape, and comfortable cut make it perfect for tropical climates like the Philippines. Besides that, embroidery, appliques, and other embellishments highlight its fashion possibilities, even for women, who have made it part of their Filipiniana and formal wear wardrobes.
Combining elements from both the precolonial native Filipinos and traditional Spanish colonial styles, the Barong was named the official national attire in 1975. What is considered the distinctive type of modern Barong – with its tapering cut, cuffs, and flared sleeves – was created by fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier of Pierre Cardin Manille in the ‘70s.
Since then, we have had short-sleeved polo barongs preferred by office workers made with linen, ramie, or cotton; as well as shirt jack barongs popularized by politicians.
The finest Barong Tagalog are made from a variety of indigenous sheer fabrics – piña from pineapple fiber, piña seda interweaving pina with silk, and jusi handwoven from abaca fibers. Pinukpok from the Bicol Region is made from loosely woven abaca fibers; jusilyn is mechanically woven from silk or cotton or polyester; while organza is made from silk or polyester.
At Kultura, the Barong is celebrated for its ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds with the different ways it can be worn today. Classic or modern, paired with slacks for formal occasions or jeans for a streetstyle take, the timeless and versatile Barong remains a symbol of cultural pride.
Take inspiration from these individuals who have made it their own; regardless of age, gender identity, nationality, and beyond.
Brian Poe Llamanzares
With his work as Senate Chief of Staff and Chairman of disaster relief NGO Panday Bayanihan, Brian Poe Llamanzares represents a new generation of public service in Kultura’s heather black cocoon Barong with bold white geometric embroidery.
Fifi Sharma
Volleyball sensation Fifi Sharma shows her stylish side with this women’s mandarin collar Barong with classic floral embroidery, which she dresses down with denim.
Mikyle Quizon
Fashion model and photography influencer Mikyle Quizon plays it cool in a short-sleeved pinasilk polo Barong with pintucks, a versatile option that can be taken from the office to dinner and beyond.
Bambi Del Rosario Young
Restaurateur, content creator, and dance enthusiast Bambi Del Rosario Young creatively matches a men’s black and white embroidered Barong with a black slip dress and layers of pearls.
Addy Raj
Indian actor and singer Addy Raj shows the Barong’s inclusive appeal by wearing this men’s blue silk cocoon Barong with geometric embroidery.
KC Montero
With a myriad of styles, designs, and fabrics – the Barong is undoubtedly a unique garment. TV and event host KC Montero wears a one-of-a-kind men’s Barong with embroidery inspired by warrior tattoos.
Tessie Singson
Fashion guru Tessie Singson AKA Lola Androgynous highlights her timeless style in our embroidered short sleeve Barong worn with a pleated skirt and bright orange sabutan bag for a pop of color.
Rex Intal
Volleyball star Rex Intal relaxes off-court in a short-sleeved pinasilk Barong featuring a “suksok” pattern with denim.
Discover Kultura’s Barong collection – from handembroidered piñasilk, to coat Barongs, versatile shirt jacks, office wear, and much more. Available in selected Kultura stores from over 45 branches nationwide.
Find your nearest store at http://bit.ly/KulturaStores or shop online at www.kulturafilipino.com.