How Emerie Studios is Reimagining the Barong Tagalog

The Barong Tagalog, a symbol of the Philippines' rich cultural heritage, has long been celebrated and worn for its intricate embroidery and distinct fabric. As one of the most iconic pieces of Filipino clothing, the Barong Tagalog has evolved over generations, with local designers offering fresh interpretations of its design.

Emerie Studios, a rising brand founded in 2022 by Em Adizas and Bengt Enrique, is reimagining the barong with a modern twist. Both Adizas and Enrique share a deep appreciation for Filipino culture and traditional craftsmanship, which influences their creative process. Their approach aims to enhance the garment's versatility and broaden its appeal to a younger and more global audience. Their Barong Jackets, in particular, have captured significant attention, earning them the Best Product for Menswear award at ArteFino 2024. Talking with L'Officiel Philippines, the two share how the design came to be.

"After graduating from the SoFA Design Institute in 2015 and working in various fields, we felt a calling to create something that honors our roots while pushing the boundaries of contemporary design," shares Enrique. "We wanted to bring a fresh perspective to Filipino fashion, crafting pieces that resonate with modern sensibilities while staying deeply connected to our cultural heritage."

Emerie Studios made a deliberate decision to reimagine the Barong, driven by a desire to create a distinctly Filipino piece that could transition seamlessly between formal and casual occasions. "The Barong Jacket perfectly encapsulates our brand ethos — respecting tradition while innovating," Enrique explains.

In designing the Barong Jackets, the duo focused on creating a garment that would fit effortlessly into modern wardrobes. The designs, like the Catalino, are crafted from handwoven piña fabrics sourced from Aklan and feature intricate sinuksok designs created in collaboration with their partner weavers. They also incorporated their in-house designed Piña Seda Stripes, adding a sporty edge while still honoring the craftsmanship behind each piece.

"By blending tailored, structured silhouettes with subtle modern details, we've transformed the Barong into a versatile piece suitable for contemporary fashion." 

The response to the Barong Jackets has been overwhelmingly positive, even inspiring new designs. "Our introduction of the Piña Seda Stripes fabric and the Crispiñano flight jacket silhouette was partly due to customer interest in more unique, sporty designs that still carry the elegance of the traditional Barong," Enrique explains. "Listening to our customers ensures that we stay true to our roots while continuing to innovate in ways that resonate with our audience."

Feedback from wearers has highlighted their pride in sporting something that feels authentically Filipino yet fresh and relevant. “Their insights have been crucial in shaping our designs. We’re now exploring additional styles and materials based on this feedback.”