LOOKBOOK | Barong Tagalog and sneakers for 'Buwan ng Wika'

Looking oh, so dignified here.

Although the celebrations are normally concentrated in elementary schools, August is Buwan ng Wika (Language Month) in the Philippines. Along with dressing up in various traditional Filipino costumes, schools usually hold programs and contests showcasing the national language and traditional Filipino songs and dances.

Our department decided to join in the fun by designating a special day yesterday where everyone was required to wear a traditional Filipino costume reinterpreted for modern times. Two years ago when we first held this event, I found myself wearing an ethnic-designed shirt with a malong.

This year I decided on a Barong Tagalog, considered our national formal wear for men. But no one wants to go all formal on a Friday, so I wore my Barong Tagalog with sneakers. I thought, if a full-on suit works just fine with sneakers, a barong would be just as perfect with this type of footwear.

I was torn between wearing it with joggers and tucking it in jeans but laziness kicked in and I no longer tried which one worked better. So I ended up with green pants with a slightly cropped length.

I thought of folding the sleeves up for a more relaxed look but I wasn't sure it would work and I didn't want my barong all rumpled if it didn't. Nevertheless I gave it a try at the end of the day. Not bad, I'd say.

Mabuhay ang kasuotang Filipino! Mabuhay ang Wikang Pambansa!
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Barong Tagalog (Kingsmen); white shirt and pants (Uniqlo); sneakers (Adidas).