Native Filipino Costume Ideas, and How to Wear Them Respectfully

Looking for a native Filipino costume for a cultural event or school day? Here are ideas, plus a few things to avoid.

Good choices

• Barong Tagalog or camisa de chino with a salakot

• Baro't saya or Maria Clara with a panuelo

• Patadyong or balintawak for a lighter, fiesta look

• A malong, worn as a skirt or wrap

• Folk dance costumes for performances, like Tinikling or Maglalatik

What to avoid

• Wearing sacred or ceremonial Indigenous items as a casual costume

• 'Tribal' costumes that mix random elements from different communities

• Darkening skin or exaggerated features

Do this instead

Pick a specific tradition, learn its name and origin, and buy from Filipino makers and weavers when you can.

Everyday option

Not dressing up? A Filipino heritage tee or jersey shows pride any day of the year.

Wear the story

Wear your culture year-round. Shop UGAT. UGAT means roots. Know yours.