The Filipiniana attire, and its many iterations in history, is constantly reinterpreted in contemporary ways for various occasions. From butterfly-sleeved tops for everyday wear, to ornate, couture-like pieces by our local designers, there’s a wealth of sartorial creations that give traditional looks like the terno and the baro’t saya a modern spin.
That said, why not consider donning something proudly Filipino for your wedding? Aside from the oft-referenced butterfly sleeves, you can draw inspiration from the Maria Clara and its voluminous sleeves or the delicate embroidery that often adorn the baro or panuelo. You could even just start with our beloved fabrics like piña or jusi. Below, we’ve rounded up all the gorgeous Filipiniana-inspired looks you can pin on your bridal boards!
1. A Barong Tagalog with a full skirt
Mix the feminine with the masculine a la Pia Wurtzbach by donning a slim Barong Tagalog with a midi-length full skirt. We love how the sash accentuates her figure and makes it look like a ball gown!
2. A serpentina terno gown
Update a terno bodice with modern skirt silhouettes like the serpentina for subtle drama or a column dress for something streamlined yet sophisticated.
3. A terno gown with appliques
Turn a simple semi A-line gown into something regal with texture in the form of appliques on the butterfly sleeves or along the hemline.
4. Embroidered terno
Add dimension to a terno gown with a fully embroidered bodice whose pattern trails down to the skirt’s romantic tulle inserts.
5. Complete the look with a veil
Play off the gown’s geometric embroidery by completing the look with a delicate tulle veil trimmed with embroidered piña or jusi.
6. A minimalist midi-length dress
For civil weddings, consider a simple yet extremely elegant midi-length dress like Heart Evangelista’s. The sweetheart neckline with the butterfly sleeves and the soft movement of the pleated skirt, create an elegant and feminine feel.
7. Add some fringe
Inject some fun by way of unexpected details like '20s-inspired fringe that will add texture and drama to the bridal look. Imagine layers of fringe swaying with you as you walk down the aisle!
8. An empire-waist terno gown
Take the traditional terno’s slim silhouette and turn it into a shocking empire-waist column dress that will elongate your figure. Take cues from this Marlon Tuazon creation and keep the bridal look modern with embellished layers of tulle.
9. A two-piece gown
In case you missed it, two-piece bridal looks are a thing, so why not add a patriotic touch like this JC Buendia number with butterfly sleeves? It’s perfect for civil weddings or intimate ceremonies. Plus, the ease and comfort of a two-piece set means you don’t have to change into a reception outfit.
10. A sweeping train
If a heavily appliqued terno gown is your dream bridal look, take it up a notch with a sweeping train and a frothy tulle overlay like this design by Michael Leyva. It’s a Filipiniana version of the grand, red-carpet worthy wedding dress!
11. A peplum top and trousers
If donning pants is in the cards for you, consider a terno top with a subtle peplum and draped sash that will add a luxe touch to sleek, slim trousers.
12. A cage terno with a jumpsuit
For something wonderfully modern and showstopping, consider flaunting a cage terno top with a simple pantsuit. The geometric pattern of the cage terno is a minimal way to achieve maximum impact. Perfect for those who aren’t into beading, appliques, or embroidery.
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