The Filipino National Costume: Barong Tagalog and Baro't Saya

Ask most Filipinos to name the national costume and you'll hear two answers: the barong Tagalog for men and the baro't saya, or its gown form the terno, for women.

How the barong became national

The barong developed during the Spanish colonial period. In the 20th century, leaders began wearing it to formal events, and President Ramon Magsaysay famously wore one to his 1953 inauguration. It became the formalwear of the nation.

The baro't saya and terno

The baro't saya evolved into the Maria Clara gown and later the terno, with its butterfly sleeves. Together they became the visual shorthand for Filipiniana.

A note on 'national'

Both garments come mostly from lowland, Christian, Tagalog-region tradition. The country's Indigenous and Muslim communities have their own equally important dress. A fuller picture of Filipino national dress includes them too.

Wearing it today

You'll see the barong and terno at weddings, graduations, state events and cultural celebrations around the world.

Wear the story

For a casual take on the national look, shop our barong-style jerseys. UGAT means roots. Know yours.