Friday, April 27, 2012

VALENTINO ROCKS THE BARONG

We've always thought of the Barong Tagalog as our National Costume, and have come across various creative and palatable renditions done by our local designers in jusi, piña or banana fabric. But how about this - the Barong seen catapulting its iconic status (as strictly Filipino) on international runway via Italian fashion powerhouse, VALENTINO for its Spring/Summer 2012 RTW collection?

In spreading news, fashion insiders (who are quick to notice) saw two pieces from VALENTINO's runway show resemble the Barong very closely. It is not known, though, if the said garments were derived from our National Costume, or just coincidental. However, VALENTINO took this to another level (with the sheer trend probably in mind) and made the Barong look so chic and modern on women by pairing it with lacey, see-thru skirts.


Photos from www.style.com

More enticingly, these two very elegant looks also made its way on VALENTINO's S/S 2012 ad campaign:



Although the Barong is usually intended for Filipino men in formal occasions, it is quite refreshing to recognize it being worn in such a delicate, ladylike manner. When VALENTINO cut it slim, romanticized it with thin belts and skirts, we all must agree that the global brand rocked the Barong - if that's the case!




3 comments:

  1. As Filipinos, we should all know that saying "Barong" is not correct. You can say "Baro" which is suitable for both men and women's clothes. "Barong Tagalog" simply means "Baro na Tagalog" so saying Barong is incomplete. Let everyone in the fashion world know that!

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    1. Tnx anonymous for the comment, but you should know that the Barong term - by common sense -is just a shortcut (or a nick), and is already part of the local vernacular. It is the same as saying P-Noy instead of President Noynoy Aquino - w/c is tad too long.

      The Barong Tagalog (as you imposed) that we know is truly made for men - although local designers have done various spins to make it a fab part of the ladies' formal ensemble (think Patis Tesoro). Then there's also Baro't Saya which is the national costume for women.

      Yes, the word "Baro" means top, but in modern times, its widely termed for everyday Pinoy casual wear (ask why local brand Bayo named their brand as such, for bayo in Bacolod means baro). And please, don't be so technical about the Barong because whether you like it or not, it's a no-brainer issue.

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  2. And the award goes to... hahaha, love it mike!

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