June 12, 2009

Maria Clara

During my recent trip to The Block in SM City North, I chanced upon an exhibit of Maria Clara gowns as interpreted by young Filipino designers—the mall's way of commemorating the Philippines' Independence Day, which is today. Maria Clara is the heroine in the novel "Noli Me Tangere" written by Philippine national hero Jose Rizal. She epitomizes the traditional Filipina: meek, obedient, loving and God-fearing. The name has also come to refer to the type of clothes worn by Filipinas during the late Spanish colonial era—a mestiza dress combining indigenous and Spanish influences. I know that it's another cheeky way of commemorating this day, but I think that it's quite fitting too since we consider our Independence Day as the day that General Emilio Aguinaldo declared our country's independence from Spain in 1898, rather than the day that Americans granted us our independence. This black and white gown was created by Edwin Uy.

black and white Maria Clara gown by Edwin Uy

16 comments:

  1. Hi Hilda, your pictures are very interesting and Manila seems a fascinating city. Thank you for commenting on my blog. I listed your blog on my daily city section.

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  2. It's so pretty Hilda. I especially love the skirt! Very elegant collar and sleeves too.

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  3. cette robe est une partie de votre histoire, et elle est superbe.
    this dress is a party of your history, and it is superb.

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  4. It looks very elegant and original, and now I am curious to read such a famous book...

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  5. Bonjour Madame Hilda! Quel chic photo! Tres sophitique'! Tres belle! Bravo - merci beaucoup!

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  6. If my husband gets me one of those dresses he will not regret it !

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  7. I'm surprised that it's so old. It looks modern to me.

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  8. This is a very elegant gown. I like the style.

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  9. Interesting, special because of traditional overtones although I am not overly keen on it. Fascinating sleeves have often been a feature - perhaps?

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  10. A creative salute and this is a pretty dress.

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  11. very fancy and one-of-a-kind
    I wouldn't have anything to wear this to.

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  12. Hi Hilda,

    This is Edwin Uy. I was browsing about my works and found your site. Thanks for posting my gown and appreciating it. Thanks also for those who liked my gown. It is indeed a modern gown but design with inspiration from the "Balintawak" dress, a dress worn during the 19th century here. That's why you could wear it even today. Female politicians wear outfits like these when attending very important functions. Take care and God bless to everyone.

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