The Philippines has a rich and varied culture, and the traditional barong is integral to that. The barong is a classic Filipino shirt that men wear on special occasions. However, in recent years, the barong has become increasingly popular as a fashion choice for women in the Philippines.

Let's learn more about Barong and how it became a fashion for today's Filipino women.

Traditional Barong: A Brief History 

The traditional barong is a formal shirt worn by men in the Philippines. It is typically made of lightweight cloth, such as linen or cotton, and is decorated with intricate embroidery. The shirt is often untucked, with the front tucked into the pants.

The barong originates in the Philippines, where aristocrats and other elite class members traditionally wore it. In the 19th century, the barong began to be worn by commoners as well, and it remains a famous shirt for special occasions and formal events.

How the Traditional Barong Became a Fashion for Filipino Women 

In recent years, the Barong has also become popular among Filipino women. It is not uncommon to see women wearing the modern Barong to work, parties, and other formal occasions. It can be worn as a dress or a blouse and often paired with skirts or pants.

There are many reasons why the Barong has become a popular choice of clothing for Filipino women. One reason is that it is very comfortable to wear, thanks to its loose-fitting and lightweight fabric. Another reason is that the Barong is stylish and elegant, making any outfit look more sophisticated.

Unfortunately, though barong has become a popular clothing choice for women in the Philippines, there is still some progress to be made. For one, many women still need access to quality clothes or fabrics that are made to fit correctly. Additionally, there are also a lot of clunky and uncomfortable straps that often go around the waist. 

Still, overall, the ladies who wear barongs in the Philippines appear to be very happy with their choice and enjoy looking their best.

How to Wear a Traditional Barong For Women's Fashion

1. As a Formal Dress

The barong can be worn as a standalone dress or as a more formal ensemble. Women typically pair the barong with a simple skirt or pants when worn as a standalone dress. The barong can be worn under a jacket or cardigan for a more formal look.

The barong is a versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. If you're attending a formal event, such as a wedding or dinner party, the barong can be an appropriate choice of attire. No matter how you wear it, the barong will make a statement.

2. Tucked Into a Pair of High-Waisted Trousers or Jeans

A modern barong can easily be tucked into a pair of high-waisted trousers or jeans for women. This creates a stylish and sophisticated look that is perfect for any formal or casual occasion. It is an iconic Filipino piece of clothing and can be worn for special occasions or just for having a bit of fun. The sleeves can be rolled up, and the bottom can be hemmed to sit below the waistline.

Conclusion

Overall, the traditional Barong is a stylish and popular choice for women's fashion in the Philippines. It is comfortable to wear and can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. Whether you are looking for a formal or casual outfit, the Barong is an excellent option to make you look and feel your best.

If you are looking for a Barong Tagalog for a go-to fashion on any formal occasion, Mestiza Filipina is here to help you. We are a collection of authentic Philippine dresses, Barong Tagalog, boleros, and more, appropriate for events, weddings, or the office. Our garments are handcrafted in the Philippines by artisans and are available for worldwide shipping. Contact us for more information!

Written by Louisa Parkinson

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