Design icons work with Jean Goulbourn to create limited-edition barongs

MANILA, Philippines - Celebrating its 18th year at New World Hotel, Silk Cocoon launched a special limited-edition barong collection  artworks by National Artists Arturo Luz and BenCab, and artists Manuel Baldemor, Gabriel Barredo, Lor Calma, Ed Calma, Kenneth Cobonpue, Ramon Diaz, Impy Pilapil, Claude Tayag and Wig Tysmans.

Jean Goulbourn, founder of Silk Cocoon, says, “It has been a privilege and honor for me to work with wonderful artists who have a unique approach to functional art used for fashion. Interpreting each painting or drawing and concept has been a delightful experience — as I can create three, four or five variations in color combinations and embroidery techniques.”

Redesigning the art of handweaving, appreciation for Filipino artistry, and raising the bar for a Philippine-made product was foremost in Jean Goulbourn’s mind when she envisioned Silk Cocoon. 

In its first textile exhibit in Paris in 1996, Silk Cocoon in its tiny space was the talk of the big brands. Piña, abaca with silk for home interiors opened a new horizon totally unknown then. 

With interior fabrics used by internationally renowned architects, interior designers and fashion design houses and five-star hotels, it was natural to serve a niche market locally for fashion for women and men with the innovative handwoven textiles, particularly the barong tagalog, which Goulbourn has moved forward into the modern era with her daring, artistic eye and flair for embroidery.

The handwoven silk fabric for the barongs is original, unique and intricate requiring hours of skill and talent.  To create the gazar-like fabric, to obtain the crispness and unyielding strength of this fabric was worth the years of experiment.

The signature barongs have been worn by APEC world leaders in 1996 and international names and celebrities including Nelson Mandela, Prince Albert of Monaco, Michael Buble, diplomats and influential business leaders here and abroad.

“We invite our clients and friends to wear or bring their 16- to 18-year-old handwoven barongs because these have passed the test of time,” says Goulbourn.  The artwork of these innovative artists in their different field makes this limited edition more precious than ever for future generations to inherit suchheirloom piece indeed!

* * *

The artists’ limited-edition barongs are available at Silk Cocoon at Shop 12, ground floor, New World Hotel, Esperanza St. corner Makati Ave., Makati City.

For inquiries, call 811-6856.