In celebration of the Philippines' 113th year of independence, Metrowear Filipiniana gathered 100 designers from the country's major design associations to present their individual interpretations of the terno, baro't saya, and barong Tagalog. The momentous event was a celebration of Filipino talent, art, and heritage that brought together the Philippine fashion design community to illustrate that Filipino dress is as timeless and traditional as it is current, stylish, and relevant.

Joining the 90+ apparel designers were accessory and shoe designers Amina Aranaz-Alunan, Rocio Olbes, Ana Rocha, Nicole Whisenhunt, Michelline Syjuco, Cesar Gaupo, and Mich Dulce, whose Filipiniana-themed pieces—jewelry, clutches, hats, and shoes—were on display that night. Patis Tesoro's Ninay dolls were also on exhibit.

Read on for a breakdown of the hundred-strong looks that were presented during Metrowear Filipiniana.

DITA SANDICO ONG

The show started with a ten-piece presentation from Dita Sandico Ong, who's best known for her pioneering work with handmade Filipino textiles. She showed her mastery of indigenous fabrics in her manipulation of the woven materials—pliant piña and jusi were rolled this way and that to give dimension to her streamlined and stately ensembles. Particularly riveting in its simplicity was a striped and leaf-print outfit with an extended top that reached past the head and swooped down gracefully on one side to frame the face.

Click here to view the collection.

THE MASTERS

Following Dita were veteran designers who have mastered the art of Filipiniana dressing. Mike dela Rosa, Loreto, Patis Tesoro, Danilo Franco, Efren Ocampo, Gregg Centeno, Nolie Hans, and Steve de Leon showcased dramatic creations that varied from the elegantly simple to the glitzy and elaborate. Chic standouts include Gregg Centeno's noir traditional terno with golden accents on the bust, and Mike dela Rosa's understated black and white one-butterfly-sleeved terno, which a fearlessly stylish, modern-day Filipina might dare wear to a formal ceremony. The bare shoulder updates the dress and hints at a sexiness that does not disrespect the sanctity of the terno silhouette. In all, these masters showed that they've truly conquered the reverent design and execution of Filipiniana through the years.

Click here to view the collection.

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