Wednesday 5 October 2011

Beauty and the Barong

Traditionally formal Filipino dress code is characterized by a barong which is a lightweight transparent garment worn over an undershirt. Barongs come in all shapes, sizes and price brackets and many of the more extravagant examples are intricately embroidered with patterns. Kathrina and I recently decided to attend a charity fundraiser at one of Manila's plushest hotels on the waterfront, so in order to be dressed in suitable attire, we both splashed out on a new outfit.

After considerable difficulty finding a barong that was long enough in the arms, thanks to Jacky's never-ending patience I eventually found one 4XL in size that actually fitted me. Kathrina opted for a slinky black number which really brought out the beauty of her incredible figure. We had our mug shots taken by the resident photographer as we arrived on the night, before settling back to watch what I considered a rather lacklustre cultural offering masquerading under the rather inappropriate title of 'Le Cabaret'. At well over $100 a ticket, I was expecting theatrical highlights which somewhat surpassed the show we were treated to, which effectively culminated in the so-called battle of the hip-hop dancers. Kathrina and I both agreed that we had been expecting something vastly different to what was actually on show, and much as the event was clearly in aid of some very good causes, we consequently decided to leave early and put our gladrags away for another occasion.

It will undoubtedly be December 21st before our garments see the light of day again, when Kathrina will be enjoying the biggest day of her life when she weds her sweetheart Paul at a traditional beach wedding ceremony in their hometown province by the sea. Kathrina comes from a family of excellent singers, so I will evidently experience the supreme vocal Filipino performance I was originally anticipating when I'll feel privileged to witness what is sure to be a truly unforgettable occasion four days before Christmas. I can hardly wait for the festivities to begin.

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