On every red carpet occasion, there’s something about guys in suits that makes them ooze with manly gorgeousness. But when they level up their looks by donning their most patriotic yet stylish Barong Tagalog outfits, boy, do they look extra dapper and classy.
Just when we thought the classic Barong Tagalog all look the same, we witnessed some of the hottest men in the industry showcase the most chic and interesting takes on the traditional attire at the ABS-CBN Ball 2019. Revisit these refreshing, debonair looks by launching the gallery.
The Ball was truly a feast for the eyes, given the appearance of some of the most handsome gentlemen in showbiz. But they didn’t go there with their perfect faces alone, as they also made sure to honor the “Modern Filipiniana” theme in the most stylish way possible.
Joshua Garcia brought a youthful spin to the traditional Barong Tagalog by wearing one in black, an unconventional take on the usually beige or white national costume. Enchong Dee and Diether Ocampo likewise came in black barong.
From the Gen Z batch, Seth Fedelin made patriotism look extra cool by going for a cropped-top-like Barong Tagalog; while Donny Pangilinan wore his in black.
Others went for something contemporary without dismissing the barong’s romantic vibe. Coco Martin incorporated intricate, eye-catching embroidery into his Barong Tagalog. The same goes with JC De Vera, Dominic Roque, and Arron Villaflor.
It was truly a night of creativity, of redefining the traditional Filipino menswear. Richard Gutierrez tapped fashion genius Joey Samson to make a reconstructed barong.
Jericho Rosales’ barong was artfully handwoven with elements that depict the life of harvest. Francis Magundayao took the “harvest” theme to the next level by having his barong embellished with real palay as a tribute to Filipino farmers and raising awareness about their plight.
Also among the most show-stopping, unique, and fashionable Barong Tagalog attires belonged to Albert Martinez, Erik Santos, and Jed Madela. Of course, Gary Valenciano brought his “pure energy” and love for fashion to the star-studded affair.
Robi Domingo owned the nationalistic look by wearing a coat that calls to mind former President Manuel L. Quezon’s sartorial taste.
Others were faithful to the original form of the Barong Tagalog but added modish details to make it stand out. Among them were Ian Veneracion, Paulo Avelino, JM de Guzman, Miko Raval, and Sam Milby. RK Bagatsing played with colors and wore his barong in the shade of rich blue. Arjo Atayde, Zaijian Jaranilla, McCoy de Leon, and Igi Boy Flores were part of the event too.
Raise your hand if you’re looking forward to seeing these fine gentlemen at the next Kapamilya red carpet event.
This year, the ABS-CBN Ball embarks on a new chapter that celebrates stories of gratitude and togetherness shared by the whole Kapamilya community – artists, employees, and collaborators.
Watch out for the grandest showbiz affair of the year! The ABS-CBN Ball 2023 happens on Saturday, September 30, for the benefit of the ABS-CBN Foundation.