Homegrown Pride

The new era of the Filipiniana and barong is scaling up its movement faster and stronger

- MARIAN SAN PEDRO

In history books and museum archives, the traditional Filipiniana and barong stand proudly in all their glory. From their long reign in the 17th century to their fast tracked modernization in the 1900s, these symbols of Philippine fashion remain representative of the heritage they were rooted from, which is rich, authentic, and exceptional.

Today, the Filipiniana and barong gradually return to the local fashion scene, evolving together with the artistic and innovative perspectives and styles of local designers.

KELVIN MORALES

Priding himself on establishing an eponymous brand that supports local artisans through continuous use and experimentation of local fabrics and materials, Kelvin Morales strikes a balance among modern, traditional, and experimental design techniques.

Putting the spotlight on craftsmanship, particularly sewing and embroidery, Morales is keen on developing artistic narratives and peculiar forms in clothing.

“During the lockdown, people started realizing that we need to support our local brands and focus on quality over quantity,” Morales says. “Designers are starting to explore and embrace our own heritage and create contemporary pieces like the barong or Filipiniana.”

When Morales started creating collections, he was always mindful to include barong pieces to represent the Filipino culture and tell a story.