From reimagined piña fabric Safari jackets to barong Tagalogs inspired by Filipino heroes, LLAMANZARES BARONGS showcases a vision that honors tradition
The Spring/Summer 2025 showcases have never exuded this much Filipino spirit. LLAMANZARES BARONGS made its mark at New York Fashion Week where the brand delivered a cultural statement that encapsulated a community. Founder Brian Poe Llamanzares described the journey from Lumban, the heart of Filipino embroidery, to Fifth Avenue as both surreal and gratifying. “It’s an incredibly humbling experience,” he shared. “Lumban is the heart and soul of Filipino craftsmanship, especially when it comes to embroidery, and bringing that heritage to the global stage is beyond exhilarating.” This brand debut paid tribute to Filipino artisans whose work, long admired yet underrepresented globally, shone brightly as every barong on the runway showcased their tradition, skill, and heritage.
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A Modern Look with Heroes and Jackets
LLAMANZARES BARONGS’ collection featured two prominent designs: the Luna and Bonifacio barongs. These items, named after Filipino heroes Juan Luna and Andres Bonifacio, were more than simply just aesthetic reverence. Luna’s barong showcased his attention to detail with delicate needlework, but Bonifacio’s design exuded power and tenacity with prominent details. Llamanzares concurs: “Luna’s barong draws inspiration from his mastery of detail, as reflected in the intricate embroidery, while Bonifacio’s symbolizes strength and resilience with bolder design elements.”
The collection continued from there, incorporating more of a unique Filipino touch. A safari jacket with piña fabric and callado embellishments was a standout piece. LLAMANZARES BARONGS’ concept of adaptability combined a classic style alongside conventional Filipino materials. “We wanted to reinterpret it using piña fabric and callado details, infusing it with our Filipino roots but giving it a contemporary edge that resonates globally,” Llamanzares adds.
Sustainability with Filipino Pride
When it comes to blending old and new, LLAMANZARES BARONGS walks the fine line between innovation and preservation. The brand’s fine needlework, done by artisans from Lumban, is key to its identity. But how does Llamanzares balance tradition with the demand for modernity?
“We work closely with the artisans, ensuring that the designs are a collaboration between modern aesthetics and age-old techniques,” he explains. The goal isn’t to reinvent the wheel but to adapt the craft to new designs, while still honoring the traditional techniques that make it special.
As the global fashion industry shifts toward more sustainable practices, LLAMANZARES BARONGS is doing its part to ensure that its designs are not only beautiful but also ethical. “Piña fabric is not only a sustainable material but also deeply embedded in our cultural identity,” Llamanzares points out. By using natural, biodegradable materials and supporting local artisans, the brand aims to lead the conversation on how heritage-based design can contribute to a sustainable future.
The Sun Shines
With a successful New York Fashion Week debut under its belt, LLAMANZARES BARONGS is looking to the future—and it’s as bright as our sun. “We hope that this exposure opens more doors for Filipino craftsmanship and culture to be recognized on the world stage,” says Llamanzares. The brand has plans to expand its collections, incorporating even more traditional Filipino design elements. And that’s not all: LLAMANZARES BARONGS is exploring partnerships to support more artisans in Lumban and beyond.
Ultimately, the brand’s mission is simple yet profound: to be a bridge between tradition and modernity, sustainability, and style. And if the New York Fashion Week debut is anything to go by, Brian Poe Llamanzares is well on its way to achieving that.
Photos: LLAMANZARES BARONGS
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Source: Insta News Pinoy
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