Who We Are
Llamanzares Barongs is an emerging Filipino menswear label dedicated to creating elevated barong shirts that showcase traditional needlepoint works of Lumban’s artisans.
Every garment from the brand honors the storied past and the promising future of the Embroidery Capital of the Philippines.
Founded and developed by entrepreneur, journalist, and author Brian Poe Llamanzares, Llamanzares Barongs was envisioned as a unique men’s retail experience that is stitched in heritage and tailored for modern living. Having grown up in a family with deep roots in Lumban, Brian has always wanted to build a brand that would honor his paternal lineage. he expresses. “I also wanted to create a brand that would bring the beautiful tradition of Lumban embroidery front and center in modern Filipino menswear.”
Our Storied Past In Every Stitch
Our artisan’s intricate needlepoint work is unlike anything in the world.
Their craft has been around for decades, and passed down from generation to generation. Their work is a testament to the province’s storied legacy
Embroidery traditions in Lumban date as far back as the colonial era, when the Spanish missionaries recognized the provincial town as a strategic trade hub. They initiated the construction of a church, which engaged most of the village’s men. Meanwhile, the Franciscan nuns taught the women the art of embroidery. While the men labored in construction, the women of Lumban created intricate patterns on delicate veils which were exported to Spain. This period marked the beginning of the town’s enduring relationship with embroidery
Fine needlework is regarded as one of the province’s main sources of income. It is also the cornerstone of its cultural identity. Generations of embroiderers have helped to establish Lumban as the Embroidery Capital of the Philippines.
At Llamanzares Barongs, we honor the passing down of tradition and craft by working with families who have nurtured and kept the art of calado embroidery alive.
Imbued with Intention,
Crafted for Generations
“We were very intentional
about partnering with artisans.”
He also added “Our goal was to create ripples that would leave a positive impact not just on the local creative industry, but also the future generation. Passing down of knowledge and skills as well as education for the youth continue to inform the work we do at Llamanzares Barongs.”
–Brian Poe Llamanzares, Founder
The Barong Journey
Designs are largely inspired by the rich tapestry of designs popular in Lumban.
They are refined and reimagined by the Llamanzares Barongs creative team into garments fit for the modern gentleman. This symbiosis between contemporary tailoring and time-honored traditions of craft distinguishes the brand in the men’s wear category.
There are several touch points in the journey of every Llamanzares Barongs. Handwoven piña fabrics are sourced from Aklan and used as the base for the brand’s barongs. These textiles are then sent to Lumban, where artisans Rose and her son Alex begin their artistic process: Alex envisions the embroidery patterns, while his mother brings it to life.
Once embroidery is completed, fabrics are transported to Manila. Working closely with highly skilled tailors, fabrics are cut, patterned, and sewn into exquisite barongs.