Modern Bahag

The Modern Bahag – A Diasporic Dialogue of Honor and Innovation

The bahag, a traditional loincloth worn by many Indigenous peoples of the Cordillera, holds deep ancestral significance. In recent years, its use beyond sacred and cultural contexts has sparked important conversations about cultural appropriation, respect, and authenticity. At Elle Karayan, we don’t shy away from these conversations—we enter them, we lean into them --with care.

As a Pinay living in the diaspora I believe that it’s possible to honor tradition while fostering innovation—so long as it's done with cultural grounding and community collaboration. The Modern Bahag was born out of this principle.

Developed alongside longtime Elle Karayan partner and Ifugao culture bearer Marlon Martin of Kiangan, each piece is co-designed and rooted in cultural respect. This is not a costume. This is not fast fashion. This is an offering—contemporary, yes, but deeply connected.

Patterns and motifs are inspired by different Cordillera communities, with color stories that reflect the present day. Designed with today’s bodies, rhythms, and needs in mind, the Modern Bahag is versatile—perfect for the beach, a day of rest, or simply feeling at home in your skin.

It’s something you wear. It’s something you carry—with reverence.

PS: Want something made just for you? We gotchu. Custom Modern Bahags are available—designed in dialogue with you, and always with respect.

Dimensions: 152x11 inches