Philippine Wedding Dress Codes: What to Wear to Your Wedding Event (2024)

Wedding dress codes are an important consideration when attending weddings in the Philippines. These events are not only a celebration of love but also steeped in tradition and culture. As a guest, it’s crucial to dress appropriately and respectfully for the occasion, whether it’s a traditional Filipino wedding, a modern one, or a fusion of the two. Knowing what to wear can make all the difference in ensuring that you’re dressed to impress and feel comfortable throughout the wedding event.

Traditional Filipino Wedding Dress Codes

In traditional Filipino weddings, men commonly wear a Barong Tagalog. This is a lightweight, embroidered shirt made of pineapple fibers or jusi fabric. It is often paired with dress pants or dress shoes. Women wear a Baro’t Saya, a two-piece ensemble consisting of a skirt and blouse made from indigenous fabrics. The blouse is typically short-sleeved and adorned with intricate embroidery, while the skirt can be floor-length or knee-length.

These traditional dress codes have significant cultural and historical importance, and many couples still choose to incorporate them into their wedding ceremonies. By wearing these traditional garments, you show respect for the couple and their cultural heritage.

How to Wear a Barong Tagalog

The Barong Tagalog is a traditional Filipino garment worn by men on formal occasions such as a wedding. Here’s how to wear it:

1. Put on an undershirt. This helps keep you cool and comfortable beneath the Barong Tagalog.
2. Put on the Barong Tagalog shirt. Make sure the shirt fits well and is not too loose or too tight.
3. Tuck the shirt into your pants.
4. Put on dress pants or dress shoes. The Barong Tagalog is usually paired with black or brown dress shoes.
5. Accessorize with a tie or cufflinks, if desired.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to wear the Barong Tagalog with confidence and style.

Modern and Traditional Filipino Wedding Dress Codes

Filipino weddings are a beautiful celebration of love and tradition. While many couples still adhere to the classic Filipino dress code, which includes the Barong Tagalog for men and the Filipiniana dress for women, there is also a growing trend towards Western formal attire. This allows guests to choose from a broader range of options, such as a suit and tie for men, or a cocktail or evening dress for women.

It’s important to note, however, that even if a more modern approach is taken, cultural traditions should still be respected. For example, guests should avoid wearing revealing clothing or anything that could be considered too casual for the occasion. By balancing modern trends with traditional customs, guests can truly embrace the beauty and diversity of Filipino culture on this special day.

Fusion of Tradition and Modernity: Examples of Unique Wedding Attire

As Filipino weddings become more modern and diverse, the trend of combining traditional and contemporary elements in wedding attire is becoming increasingly popular.

One way to achieve this balance is by incorporating traditional materials and techniques into modern designs. For example, a bride may opt for a white wedding gown made from indigenous fabric or a groom may choose a Barong Tagalog with modern embroidery.

Another way to fuse tradition and modernity is by blending styles and silhouettes. For instance, women may choose to wear a modern dress with a traditional terno sleeve, while men may wear a suit with a traditional patadyong pattern.

It’s important to note that the fusion of tradition and modernity in wedding attire should be done with respect and sensitivity to the cultural significance of each element. By striking the right balance, couples can create a unique and memorable wedding experience that celebrates both their heritage and their modern sensibilities.

Attire Examples for a Philippine Wedding

Here are some examples of attire that you can wear to a Philippine wedding:

For Men:

• Traditional Filipino Wedding – Barong Tagalog with dress pants or dress shoes
• Modern Filipino Wedding – Suit and tie

For Women:

• Traditional Filipino Wedding – Baro’t Saya
• Modern Filipino Wedding – Cocktail or evening dress with appropriate length

For Both:

• Semi-formal – Dress pants or skirt with a dress shirt or blouse
• Formal or Black-tie – Tuxedo for men and evening gown for women

Dressing Appropriately at a Philippine Wedding

Here are some tips to keep in mind when dressing for a Philippine wedding:

• Consider the Venue and Time of Day: The venue and time of day will play a big role in what you should wear. For example, a beach wedding may call for more casual attire, while an evening wedding may require more formal wear. In a church wedding, guests should dress modestly and avoid showing too much skin.
• Follow the Dress Code on the Invitation: Many Filipino weddings will include a dress code on the invitation. Be sure to follow it accordingly. The dress code may require a specific kind of attire such as a semi-formal, formal, or black tie.
• Avoid Wearing White or Black: White is typically reserved for the bride, while black is associated with funeral attire. It’s best to avoid wearing these colors to a wedding. Other colors like red, which symbolizes bad luck, should also be avoided.
• Dress Modestly: Weddings are a time to celebrate the couple and their union, so it’s important to dress modestly and respectfully. Avoid revealing clothing and anything that may be considered inappropriate. For women, dresses should not be too short or too tight, while men should avoid wearing shorts or sandals.

Conclusion

By adhering to appropriate wedding dress codes, guests can demonstrate respect for the cultural traditions of the couple. It’s important to consider the venue and time of day, follow the dress code stated on the invitation, and dress modestly. Guests should avoid wearing black or white, and instead choose from a variety of options, such as the traditional Barong Tagalog for men or the Baro’t Saya for women, a modern suit and tie, or a cocktail or evening dress. By following these wedding dress codes, guests can enjoy the celebration in style while respecting the newlyweds’ cultural heritage.