Aya Fernandez's Top 10 Picks to #WearYourPinoyPride

I love using this, whether working from home or bringing my laptop to a meeting, because I always get compliments for this laptop case's eye-catching colorful design that looks "very Pinoy!" I've been using this laptop case for two years now, and I can prove that it is really durable, plus, the finishing is clean and nice.

The banig design of this laptop case features a pattern adorned on the skin of the Pintados, who hail from the region of Visayas. Banig-making is one of the main livelihoods of Samar and a traditional Filipino craft that they are known for, but sadly, it is slowly dying.

This brand connects with the local communities in Samar who weave banig and develops programs to hone their talent, support and empower them. Through this, more opportunities are being created for local artisans, and it keeps the tradition of weaving banig alive!

Some people have a misconception that wearing indigenous weaves is only for formal events, Buwan ng Wika, or it makes you look out of style. But this crop top with a weave from Cordillera definitely proves us wrong!

This top is perfect for our tropical climate, and I like how versatile this piece can be. Sometimes, I wear it with layers, under a suit, or simply backless, as it is! It can be worn for beach trips, a quick lunch out, when you're running errands, or even under a suit for business endeavors.

The brand, Amianan, also offers other tops with different weaves like Inabel for your daily casual wear. I'm sure that there one piece that will tickle your fancy. 

T'nalak is made by the indigenous tribe, T'boli from Lake Sebu, Mindanao. The women who make T'nalak are called "dream weavers" for it is believed that the unique designs and patterns come from their dreams.

When I hold my passport, I often remember this as a good metaphor for my travel because I feel like I go to places with a deeper sense of purpose, like how the T'nalak is woven from a considered sacred dream by our Indigenous Peoples. 

In addition, in terms of the quality, I like how the product has inside pockets for cards, ID, and wallet-size photos so it's quicker and more convenient, especially when different requirements are asked at the airport counter. Also, I've been using mine for three years now and it still looks the same as when I first used it! Very good quality of finishing indeed!

This necklace will surely catch attention whether in events or Zoom calls! It's bold but not too loud and all you need is a plain top to match it with. I like that there's no need to spend extra time searching in the closet for that signature look!

These necklaces are intricately woven by the Kalinga community in the North using upcycled beads that are made from used plastics. You will never find two pieces that are the same since they are handmade.

There's so much meaning in wearing this necklace and honestly, although I am not a huge fan of accessories, this one is an exemption and definitely a personal favorite.

This multi-purpose bandana is my favorite OOTD piece when I go for an adventure. It can be worn on the head, neck, arm, or even as a belt! There are also two types of weaves that you can choose fromーthe one woven from the North (Kalinga) or South (Yakan).

Part of the proceeds goes to Cancer Warriors Foundation who supports underprivileged children who battle cancer. They provide not only medical intervention but also care from the community, such as emotional support, awareness, health care rights, and more.

I had been invited to some events held by the foundation and personally witnessed how a purchase of this product goes a long way.

When did denim jackets ever go out of style? With added patches of Inabel, the Filipino textile from the North, denim stands out even more! In Ilocano, "inabel" directly translates to woven. 

I really think adding this to your wardrobe is a must and an essential! It is not just chic but also durable. Just be careful when you wash it or put it in the laundry because the Inabel weave might loosen if not washed with caution. 


I was able to personally visit the weavers in La Union in 2019, and sadly, I learned that Inabel weavers are becoming less and less today. To prevent the tradition from dying, let's support Inabel more and as much as we can!

These blankets represent pride for gender equality among the LGBTQ+ community and pride as a Filipino. Aside from what it represents, I love its vibrant colors, which make it perfect for beach photos! 

When I sit on it on the beach, the sand does not go through the blanket, unlike other beach towels. It is lightweight but not too thin nor too thick. I also love that the use isn't just limited to the beach. I like to take it with me to work and use it as a shawl or seat blanket.

Wearing this is like carrying the unique heritage of Yakan, the indigenous community from Basilan and Zamboanga who have woven them. Patterns in the Yakan weave are inspired by nature: bamboo, sun, flower, and more. 


For the Yakan tribe, the weave is a metaphor for lifeーbeneath all beautiful things and people are knots and ties, evidence of the hard work and struggles that make us who we are. By wearing these Yakan masks, we not only protect ourselves from the virus, but I believe that we also have this mindful thought about the Yakan's value for the environment and life.

I like how this washable face mask fits well on the face and it doesn't slip down the nose. However, when you order, you can message the brand for a smaller or bigger size to be sure it won't be too tight nor too loose. 

The Yakan primarily came from Basilan, but because of the political and war conflict in the 1970s, they had to relocate to Zamboanga. To help the community develop their livelihood, preserve and promote the traditional craft, this brand works with the communities in Zamboanga. 


May it be casual or formal wear, there is a kind of weave fit for any kind of occasion, and I really feel happy about having at least a piece that I can wear to show how chic traditional weaves could be!

When I feel lazy to think about layering, and mixing and matching clothes, this is my go-to top with Yakan weave. All I need is a pair of jeans, shoes that go with my mood for the day, and a ponytail to complete the look. 


I think that this top is perfect for the empowered modern Filipina. It exudes power and confidenceーready to take on whatever challenge may come her way.

When we're asked to dress in cultural nights, most of the time, we're more likely to wear either barong and baro't saya or Filipiniana. Sometimes, I wonder why the representation of the Filipino identity is usually always from the Spanish colonization era. 

We have over 100 ethnolinguistic groups from all over the 7,641 islands in our country, and I think our indigenous peoples need more spotlight on their arts and craftmanship. 

When I discovered Kandama's custom-tailored suits made from indigenous fabrics from Ifugao, I was more than thrilled to try on their pieces! They make neat, elegant and flattering suits, and I love how the design gives an illusion of taller height.

I always contact them whenever I have talks, events, or even weddings to attend to! You'll also be glad to know that some of their pieces can be rented out for as low as Php 2,000!