MANILA, Philippines - Many Filipina brides still opt to adopt a Filipiniana motif for their wedding ensemble. Apart from the cultural and nationalistic vibe, Filipiniana-themed gowns impart elegance and timelessness.
Teodora “TG” Gonzales, owner of Tygie Corporation, says that the Filipiniana attire is no longer limited to outdated terno with the signature puffy sleeves preferred by older women decades ago. “Today’s Filipiniana-style gowns can sport a modern cut or silhouette but still use indigenous fabrics,” she explains.
Tygie Corporation offers ladies and men’s wear fashioned out of piña, the banana leaf-based jusi, organza and pinukpok derived from abaca plant.
From her late father’s cousin’s shop in Bulacan, TG moved to work under great Filipino couturiers like Pitoy Moreno and Ben Farales. While working for them, she also took sewing orders on the side. When these ventures grew, she decided to set out on her own. In 1970, she started her own line of gowns, dresses and blouses through the help of her godmother, Segundina Vizcarra.
She met her husband and future business partner Danilo Gonzales in 1974. Together, they tended Tygie Corporation, a name derived from her nickname, “TG.” The husband-and-wife tandem rented a three-door apartment in Marilao, Bulacan where they put up their first shop and also served as their house.
As their business flourished, Danilo and TG were able to purchase a property in Marulas, Valenzuela where they put up a house. It also became the new address for their business. Soon after, the company was supplying most of the stores located at the Pistang Pilipino in Ermita, Manila.
Modern Pinays have come to appreciate the classic beauty of Filipiniana wear as evidenced by the constant clamor from customers.
Before, the Filipiniana style was identified only with mature women attending civic affairs and tourists who want a slice of Pinoy culture. Now it can be spotted in all kinds of occasions, including weddings and debuts, and worn by women of all ages.
TG concludes, “Because of this, we always come up with fresh designs and cuts to satisfy our discriminating clientele who always want something new.”
Tygie is at the upper ground floor of Ever Gotesco along Commonwealth Ave. in Quezon City. For information, call Teodora Gonzales or Delia Nario at 932-3028 or 293-6188.