Filipiniana, also called the Maria Clara gown or traje de mestiza, was traditionally worn by aristocratic women in the Philippines. It has evolved into modern versions – the most popularly worn today is the terno – with many designers incorporating the elements of the formal dress to fit the dynamic preferences and needs of wearers.
The modern Filipiniana pieces from Kultura Filipino, for example, feature fresh and exciting contemporary styles.
The collection consists of both classic and modern silhouettes – tops, skirts, and dresses that can be worn together or mixed and matched. The iconic butterfly sleeved terno gets a fresh new look worn with pants and other modern pieces.
The pieces are made of natural materials like piña silk and jusi, embroidered or hand-painted by artisans in Kultura’s partner communities of weavers, embroiderers, farmers, and workers. The inabel fabric from Ilocos region is updated with innovative designs.
The contemporary Filipiniana pieces are ideal for small intimate events and online affairs – wear the cropped terno top with silk pants or whatever trousers one deems comfortable to wear at home, or put an exquisitely embroidered capelet over a silk gown, or opt for a hand-painted silk cocoon barong top with puffed sleeves.
Shop online at www.kulturafilipino.com or through the store’s call to deliver service (0917-517-4096).
Fair features local designers’ take on pambahay, panlakad
At the mall-wide fair DamaKoLahiKo, organized by Ayala Malls and the Philippine Fashion Coalition, local labels and designers showcase collections that revolve around the theme “Kalye”. The featured pieces thus reflect the current social realities of communities, such as the rise of loungewear, streetwear, and activewear.
The Filipino Fashion Fair mall pop-ups coming to Ayala Center Cebu on July 2-4, Ayala Malls Manila Bay on July 9-11, and U.P. Town Center on July 16-18 will be categorized into pambahay, panlakad, pangtrabaho, panglibangan, and pang-exercise, among others.
Featured creations are made by local designers including Adante, Ai-she Fashion, Alchemista, Amano Crafts Creations, Ann Casas Designs, Anya Lim, Basil Malicsi, Beatriz, Dexter Alazas, Dino Lloren, Earl Gariando, Hanz Coquilla, Jessica Ouano of Damgo, Jun Escario, Mjorian, Niño Angeles, Philip Rodriguez, Regina Aquino, Rhett Eala, Tina Campos Jewelry, Harley Ruedas, Bezza Resort Wear, Heritage Accessories, Tina Magistrado, Anthill, Filippo by Philip Rodriguez, Vic Barba, and Virtucio.
During the fair’s first showcase at Alabang Town Center on June 25-27, local merchant partners that participated included Kamiseta, Plains and Prints, Collezione, Lazy Fare, Worship Generation, Annie & Lori, Just G, and Straightforward.