Introduction to Barong Tagalog

Choosing a Barong Style

This page presents the main Barong Tagalog styles and their practical differences.

Style selection depends on the occasion, required formality, and fabric. Below are the most common Barong styles and where they are typically used.

A man wearing a traditional cream-colored Barong Tagalog with intricate embroidery and a mandarin collar

Classic Barong

This style is defined by a closed front construction with decorative buttons.

The barong is worn over the head rather than fully opened. The buttoned panel does not function as a complete fastening and serves a visual purpose.

This cut is traditionally used for formal ceremonies and events that require a classic Barong Tagalog form.

A man in a beige coat-style Barong Tagalog with embroidery, sitting on a vintage motorcycle

Coat Barong

A Barong with a full front opening and functional buttons.

It is worn and removed like a jacket rather than pulled over the head.

This cut is used for formal and semi-formal occasions that require a closed front construction.

A man wearing a light blue, short-sleeved Barong Tagalog with embroidery, paired with silver pants

Modern Barong

A Barong category that allows variation in cut and construction.

Unlike classic styles, it is not limited to a fixed form and may differ in proportions, sleeve design, and detailing.

This category is used when a Barong is appropriate, but a strictly traditional structure is not required.

Man wearing a custom Barong Tagalog with intricate embroidery

Full Custom embroidery Barong

A Barong made to order with custom decisions applied to both cut and ornamentation.

The base form may follow a Classic, Coat, or Modern Barong, with changes to construction, proportions, and overall shape. Decorative elements and embroidery are defined individually and adjusted to the chosen form.

Depending on the selected fabric, including pure piña, this type of Barong can be produced for different purposes, from weddings to evening events.