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Local menswear brand Llamanzares Barongs makes its global runway debut, showcasing barongs known for their exquisite needlework made by craftsmen from Lumban, Laguna
MANILA, Philippines – Filipino craftsmanship has made its way to the global runway!
The traditional barong made a bold fashion statement during September’s New York Fashion Week, where local menswear brand Llamanzares Barongs — known for its exquisite needlepoint creations made by Lumban, Laguna’s craftsmen — made its grand debut.
Last September 7, the company launched its first capsule collection of contemporary barongs at the Annex 417 on Fifth Avenue, during the FILIPINXT show.
The Luna and Bonifacio, two of the collection’s hallmark styles, represented the classic barong tagalog.
Llamanzares Barongs debuted a redesigned piña fabric safari jacket with the brand’s signature callado details, using the finest piña fabrics from Aklan. Every item demonstrated the brand’s commitment to fusing traditional Filipino craftsmanship with contemporary menswear.
“We’re thrilled to have debuted Llamanzares Barongs on a global stage at this year’s New York Fashion Week,” said Brian Poe Llamanzares, the brand’s founder.
“This global debut is our homage to Lumban and the artisans who have poured their hearts into every piece. Every barong that was sent down the runway of New York Fashion Week is a celebration of their craft and artistry.”
From Laguna to New York
Llamanzares Barongs celebrates the intricate craftsmanship of Lumban, Laguna, known as the “Embroidery Capital of the Philippines.” The brand’s founder wanted to uplift historical methods using modern clothing, merging cultural preservation with design.
The brand serves as a tribute to Llamanzares’ paternal lineage and the rich heritage of his hometown, devoted to working with local artisans.
The third-generation Lumban embroiderer Miss Rose is at the core of the brand’s artistry. Her son Alex, who now creates embroidery patterns for Llamanzares Barongs, helps her preserve her artistic talent, which has been passed down through the generations.
Miss Rose’s elaborate callado needlework is based on handwoven piña fabrics from Aklan that are ethically produced. Each barong takes up to 30 days to make, from the procurement of the fabric to the last thread, after it has been embroidered and delivered to skilled tailors in Manila.
Llamanzares Barongs was part of FILIPINXT’s second New York Fashion Week show, organized by fashion designer Bessie Besana and Filipino-American entrepreneur Rob Mallari-D’Auria. The event featured designs from other prominent Filipino designers, including Chynna Mamawal, Wilson Limon of NiñoFranco, and Gabby Garcia of Tagpi.
Founded in 2023 in New York City by fashion designer Bessie Besana and Filipino-American entrepreneur Rob Mallari-D’Auria, FILIPINXT is a platform that highlights Filipino designers by offering them a global stage to showcase their unique styles. Its curated collection features outstanding designs from renowned Filipino creators, celebrating the rich cultural heritage and modern innovation of Philippine fashion.
Held twice a year, in February and September, New York Fashion Week is a major fashion event in Manhattan that spans seven to nine days. It showcases the latest international fashion collections to buyers, media, and the public. – Zulaikha Palma/Rappler.com
Zulaikha Palma is a Rappler intern studying AB Journalism at the University of Santo Tomas.
