When it comes to traditional Filipino clothing, it is hard not to imagine the elegant silhouette of the terno. The round sleeves made of eight to 12 pleats perfectly mirror the heritage and history of the Philippines with its East-meets-West style. After having their moment in Manila last January, the butterfly sleeves fly to Cebu as the province hosts the Philippine Terno Gala.
Reimagining the terno this time are noted Filipino fashion designers Philip Rodriguez, Rajo Laurel, Mark Bumgarner, and Cary Santiago as they send down the runway their take on the traditional garb that could rival the couture creations of international fashion houses. Through the lens of photographer RJ Juarez, we get a glimpse of the glorious metamorphosis of the Philippine terno.
Pieces from Philip Rodriguez's collection
Bold colors, rich embroideries, and a myriad of patterns are what Philip’s collection is all about. His show explores separates with muses donning full-length skirts, lace tops, and terno boleros all depicting the romanticism of Spanish style. His final piece is just immaculate. Inspired by the country’s national flower, Sampaguita, the look features a two-piece crop top and a serpentine skirt decorated with cordings and flower appliqué. Completing the look are vintage pineta and a pair of South Sea pearl earrings.
Pieces from Rajo Laurel's collection
Rajo’s interpretation of the terno is a mix of his and her aesthetic. Dubbed “Tern-tux,” the collection plays with the contrast of masculine tailoring and hyper-femininity of the butterfly sleeves. The element of movement is also alive in his collection with terno garbs imbued with a multitude of fringe. Adding to the drama of his collection are the ethereal floral headdresses—simply breathtaking.
Pieces from Mark Bumgarner's collection
It’s all about flower power for Mark’s collection. Muses in black and white dresses and pastel garbs parade on his runway. Among our favorites from his collection are optical illusion-like black and white ombre with floral motif terno cocktail dresses. Making his dreamy pastel pieces shine under the lights are his large rosettes and geometric crystal embellishments, producing classic visions of sophistication one dress at a time.
Pieces from Cary Santiago's collection
When it comes to silhouettes beyond imagination, one can expect that Cary will deliver. For his Philippine Terno Gala collection, the Cebu-based fashion designer releases a flock of glamazons wearing terno dresses in glimmering gold, art deco prints, and moody lace. Serving a true spellbinding moment is his magical white lace garb with butterfly wings design. Adding to the whimsy of the look are the 3D butterflies, making his muse look like a diwata ending his show on a spectacular note.
Hello, readers! Do you have a story you want us to feature? Send us a message on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, and Twitter and let’s talk about it.