Taking the ‘pambahay’ out

Carl Jan Cruz and Univers join forces for a collection that celebrates contemporary Filipino wear

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When we think of Filipino fashion, what often comes to mind are images of Filipiniana.

Whether it’s a pristine terno, a modern barong, or a contemporary piece featuring local tapestries, it can be difficult to shake off that vision of Filipino wear. While there is no fault in that, it represents only one layer of a larger story.

Contrary to popular belief, Filipino fashion isn’t confined to formal occasions or historical silhouettes. It is also embedded in everyday life, where dressing becomes a dialogue between ease, humor, and sustainability. In recent years, designers and brands have reimagined the “pambahay,” creating playful pieces from fabrics like katsa and kumot.