Terno: A Century of the Philippine Dress

This volume offers an unparalleled visual chronicle of the transformation throughout the past century of the terno, a traditional Philippine dress distinguished by butterfly sleeves.

Featuring over 300 photographs, the book gathers together historical documents, restored portraits, and newly commissioned images that capture the terno’s distinctive silhouette, textiles, craftsmanship, and detailed embellishments, from the Roaring Twenties to the 1950s Golden Age of Haute Couture, all the way to the contemporary creations of the new millennium.

Ternos have been worn by First Ladies at presidential inaugurations, society belles at weddings and galas, and many Filipinas in daily life. The publication includes creations by National Artists Ramon Valera and Salvacion “Slim” Lim Higgins, celebrating Filipino artistry and craftsmanship, and traces the terno’s evolution through local traditions, cultural milestones, and global fashion influences. It also showcases the creativity of emerging talents through competitions and the contemporary interpretations of early twenty-first-century fashion designers.