Barong Tagalog Sampler

The barong Tagalog is the national costume and the pride of the Philippines. Filipinos had a hand-woven garment fabricated from, pina, cotton, jusi, and abaca fibers which had a “front opening, white color, and loose, tucked-out style” (Lynch. 20). During Spanish colonization from 1556 to 1898 the barong Tagalog was to remain untucked, pocketless, and transparent so Filipinos could not steal or smuggle weapons (20). In addition,

Lumban, Laguna saw high levels of Franciscan missionary work which resulted in the introduction of embroidery that now adorns the barong Tagalog today (Adalla. 30). The embroidery that adorns this garment ties the skills of women to their female elders who passed down this skill and the lessons associated with being a proper lady, such as grooming, manners, and cleanliness (40-44).

"Bruha" translates to "witch", it also insinuates that one's hair is untidy, dirty, and coarse like that of a witch - I have been called this on more than one occasion. This name tag esk brooch is a representation of my identity and pride for my heritage and hair.

I resonate with embroidery because I was taught to embroider by my grandmother. Although we are not from Lumban, the lessons taught to new generations of embroiders were taught to me. I am pleased with the outcome of this brooch, this was my first attempt to blend metal and textiles. In the future, I would like to explore the idea of making wall hangings inspired by the barong Tagalog and other jewelry forms.

Work Cited

Adalla, Kristine K. “Shaping Lumbban Women Hand Embroidered’ Identity.” Diliman Review, Vol. 62, No.1, 2018. pp 29-50.

Henderson, Matthew. “Barong Tagalog.” Dressmaker and Design, Global Media. 2006, pp 117 - 120.

Lynch, Annette et al. “Barong Tagalog.” Ethnic Dress in the United States: A Cultural Encyclopedia, Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Incorporated. 2014, pp 19-21.