Barong Tagalog

[geebee]

Gentlemen:

I am Filipino and the formal wear in my country is called a Barong Tagalog. I am wondering if it would be appropriate for me to wear a barong to formal occasions in Europe and North America.

I also wonder what the reaction would be of restaurants and other establishments that have a dress code.

I recall that Gabriel Garcia Marquez wore a guayabera when he was awarded a Nobel and the award ceremony is a white tie affair. The barong would be similar to a guayabera.

Many thanks for your advise.

GB

[DD MacDonald]

GB, it is my understanding that the formal wear of one's country is always acceptable in any formal diplomatic setting in the West. I have confidence that this rule overflows into most social settings calling for formal wear. While I do not know the particulars of the Barong Tagalog, I imagine that it is colorful and different from our "black tie" in every conceivable way. While some hosts will certainly blush (if not blanche), consider your self encouraged to share your customs and respond to any suspicion that greets you with a cheerful explanation. A smile will get you out of just about anything.

DDM

[Jackson]

GB, it is my understanding that the formal wear of one's country is always acceptable in any formal diplomatic setting in the West. I have confidence that this rule overflows into most social settings calling for formal wear.

That is my understanding as well.

A bit more on the Barong.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barong_Tagalog

[geebee]

While I do not know the particulars of the Barong Tagalog, I imagine that it is colorful and different from our "black tie" in every conceivable way. While some hosts will certainly blush (if not blanche), consider your self encouraged to share your customs and respond to any suspicion that greets you with a cheerful explanation. A smile will get you out of just about anything.

DDM

Dear DD MacDonald,

Thank you for your response. While it is true barongs are now available in all sorts of colors, the most traditional are in shades of beige or ecru. Personally, I am not too fond of colored barongs but I suppose in an office setting, it may be appropriate to wear them.

The most expensive barongs are made of pina and they have hand embriodered patterns on them. These patterns usually have floral or leaf motifs and have been passed down through the generations of embroiderers. Unfortunately for me, I would prefer a design that is more modern such as a geometric pattern.

When I have more free time, I shall take a photo of my barong and post it here.

GB

[migrbau]

I am a new member and was going through the various topics and my eye noticed this topic being a Philippine diplomat on overseas posting.

It would indeed be appropriate to wear a Barong Tagalog in Europe or North America at semi-formal and formal events (indeed, there are officially prescribed regulations on the wearing of decorations with Barong Tagalog at semi-formal and formal events)

Nevertheless, it is possible that some smaller cities may not be cosmopolitan enough to recognize the propriety of national dress.

Some discretion should also be exercised when wearing Barong Tagalog in cold weather, as it does not give as much warmth as conventional black or white tie - this point is one of physical comfort more than anything else.

I would encourage you to wear Barong Tagalog when possible, I do so myself. As for the possibility of embarrassment, I join the other commentators in the view that aplomb and a smile will get you over almost anything.

[edhayes]

At the risk of being criticized, I think if you brought a Filipina with you-anyone would overlook anything just to have her in the place

[bluscuro]

I especially admire a Barong Tagalog made from Pina or Banana if left in natural shades.

The one thing that I do not like is the wearing of a white "T" shirt under the Barong. I feel that doing so destroys the elegance and grace of the garment. Would it not be better to double face the front of the Barong (with self material) to overcome the sheer nature of a fine Pina? This method is often employed when swiss voile is used for a classic dinner shirt.

bluscuro

[geebee]

I especially admire a Barong Tagalog made from Pina or Banana if left in natural shades.

The one thing that I do not like is the wearing of a white "T" shirt under the Barong. I feel that doing so destroys the elegance and grace of the garment. Would it not be better to double face the front of the Barong (with self material) to overcome the sheer nature of a fine Pina? This method is often employed when swiss voile is used for a classic dinner shirt.

bluscuro

Dear bluscuro,

It can be done. The barong can be lined or double-faced so you do not have to wear a camisa china underneath. That is a matter of preference.

IMHO, one must wear only the pina or banana fiber in the natural shades. I find colored barongs distasteful.

Now that you've mentioned it, my next barong will be done that way. Thanks.

GB

[bluscuro]

Senor GeeBee,

You may be able to advise where I can have a top quality Barong made on my next visit to Manila. Only Pina or top level banana are of interest.
Salamat po !

bluscuro

[MTM]

Hi GB,

I would agree with those above that an off-white pina, banana, or jusi Barong is appropriate for formal or semi-formal wear in larger US cities. I'm half-Filipino and have lived for extended periods in the Philippines. I apply Filipino standards to the US, ie wearing a pina or jusi barong with black or oxford grey pants and black oxford shoes to formal events and a linen or viscose barong to semi-formal events, again with dark pants (maybe midnight blue) and black oxfords.

While I agree that the traditional ecru or off-white color is best, and I really dislike green, blue, etc. barongs, I do have a nice light grey "polo" or short-sleeved linen and viscose barong that I like.

Another option to the doubled barongs is a long-sleeved undershirt. I had a Zimmerli one that was very fine and didn't get too hot.

I would like to know, as well, who are the best custom barong tailors, or the best tailors in general in the Philippines. Has anyone had any experience with Cornelio Cubon on Kalayaan Ave, Makati? He's made me some very nice things.

Mark

[S.Otto]

Hi GB,

I would agree with those above that an off-white pina, banana, or jusi Barong is appropriate for formal or semi-formal wear in larger US cities. I'm half-Filipino and have lived for extended periods in the Philippines. I apply Filipino standards to the US, ie wearing a pina or jusi barong with black or oxford grey pants and black oxford shoes to formal events and a linen or viscose barong to semi-formal events, again with dark pants (maybe midnight blue) and black oxfords.

While I agree that the traditional ecru or off-white color is best, and I really dislike green, blue, etc. barongs, I do have a nice light grey "polo" or short-sleeved linen and viscose barong that I like.

Another option to the doubled barongs is a long-sleeved undershirt. I had a Zimmerli one that was very fine and didn't get too hot.
Mark

I do a very similar thing with my East African National Dress( Uganda to be particular). Sometimes I also wear toned down colors, decorations, and head dress to be respectfull of others and the mood of the ocasion. Living in the US, I can tell you will I definately get a fair share of ignorance, and stares. A smile, some humility, and the utmost respect will usually win you some admiration for representing your heritage. I've even inspired other immigrants in the US to wear there National Dress; oh, how numbers can add confidence in these situations. Good luck.

Stephen In Atlanta