The Barong Tagalog

CEBU, Philippines — The Barong Tagalog is the official national costume of Filipino men.  Such an excellent choice, because the Barong Tagalog is a beautiful, elegant and distinctly Filipino garment.  And the way it has evolved in recent times, the Barong Tagalog is something the Filipino man would be proud to wear to the world.

It is traced to the northern part of the Philippines, and is originally made of “jusi” or pineapple cloth called “pina,” so-called because it is woven from pineapple leaves. It is traditionally worn over a Chinese collarless shirt called Camisa de Chino.

In a way, the Barong Tagalong, is quite representative of several dressing cultures. It exhibits the loose, long lines of its Chinese background, the airy tropical appearance of Indo-Malay costume, the elongated effect of Hindu dressing, and the ornamental restraint of European men’s clothing. Yet, in the end, it’s distinctly Filipino.

Today, the Barong Tagalog is made of different materials and in different colors – apart from “jusi” and “pina,” and the color beige. And it fits well in various formal occasions and meetings. There has even emerged the proper way to wear the Barong Tagalog. The website https://bespokemanblog.com suggests ways to wear the Barong Tagalog right:

1. Keep it understated. Choose pure piña fabric in its natural color and intricate rather than ostentatious embroidery. There are many embroiderers of piña fabric but the most beautiful comes from Lumban, a small town in Laguna that does amazing handwork.

2. Cover your butt.

This rule of wearing a jacket also makes sense for the Barong Tagalog. You do not want to look like you are wearing a skirt nor would like your butt to stick out. Keep the length in between the distance of the collar and the floor; give or take half an inch.

3. Wear an un-tucked long-sleeved camisa de chino.

A tucked short-sleeved Camisa de Chino cuts you in half and doesn’t look very elegant. Wearing an un-tucked long-sleeved Camisa de Chino gets rid of the translucency and makes the Barong Tagalog look like a jacket.

4.  Get high armholes.

Low armholes and large sleeves look sloppy. Having higher armholes means a wider range of movement without the excess fabric in the sleeves.

5. Treat it as tropical garment.

It shouldn’t sit too close to the body and should be comfortable to wear in warm weather. Choose a straight silhouette with enough fabric to easily put it on (if half open) and move in.

6. Ensure the collar sits high and hugs the neck.

You should be able to fit one finger in your collar. It should stand and not lie flat.

7. Choose a point collar.

A classic point collar is the best choice for formal affairs.

8. Always fasten the collar button.

Keep the collar button fastened for a dignified look.

The Barong Tagalog has become an iconic fashion piece that there’s now even a version for women. But is it any wonder? Everyone would want to own a piece of art that has come a long, long way. (FREEMAN)