The Philippines is filled with various cultures including different costumes, this was because the Philippines was a melting pot for traders and merchants bringing in an eclectic mix of cultures from different parts of the world; Asia in particular. You can see the influences in their clothing and I decided to do my own interpretations of the different costumes you may find around the country.
THE MARIA CLARA
The most classic of the dresses, the Maria Clara was named after a Filipino heroine found in literature.
THE SINGKIL DRESS
This outfit is often seen being worn during a Filipino dance called the Singkil, a famous dance of the Maranao people.
THE MESTIZA DRESS
A formal dress which is known for its high shoulders and embroidery. This dress is a more popular piece to wear especially by modern Filipinas.
THE KIMONA
The Kimona is a more relaxed formal item of clothing often worn in the Visayan area. The skirt is known as the patadyong.
INSPIRED BY THE IGOROT
Inspired by the Igorot, there were so many ways I could have designed this dress, but I decided to incorporate the patterns found in clothing and the tattoos that represent strength and nature, depending on the tribe.
