This year’s SONA (State of the Nation Address) may have demanded restrained elegance from attendees, but some guests turned modesty into mastery—using modern Filipiniana as a bold statement of heritage, identity, and quiet defiance. Despite protocol urging simplicity, these looks dominated headlines and stirred debate—so who made the unofficial best-dressed list?

Here’s an exclusive breakdown of the Top 10 standout styles at SONA 2025, curated from fashion experts and viral chatter across Philippine entertainment media:

1. Heart Evangelista – Michael Leyva

The Senate spouse delivered a study in understatement and surprise. She opened with a crisp barong-inspired top paired with a woven Filipiniana skirt, then transitioned into a sleek terno with wave-like structural details from Michael Leyva, styled by Iza Sim. The craftsmanship spoke louder than any sparkles.

2. Atty. Margarita Gutierrez – Mark Bumgarner

Draped in liquid-gold elegance, Gutierrez wore a butter-yellow terno with sculpted butterfly sleeves and a flowing mermaid silhouette. The gown landed squarely in the limelight, exuding power dressed in poise.

3. Tootsy Angara – Rajo Laurel

Rooted in Abra’s abaca silk, her ensemble showcased subtle sculptural pleats that blended tradition with modern grace. A soft, romantic interpretation of Filipiniana couture.

4. Em Aglipay–Villar – Ivar Aseron

With a structured square neckline and asymmetrical tiered skirt, Em Villar’s piña calado gown echoed Filipino craftsmanship while amplifying her ambassadorial stance.

5. Pia Wurtzbach–Jauncey – Mark Bumgarner

OWWA Ambassador Pia stunned in a sequined butterfly-sleeved blazer like barong paired with a shimmering skirt. Her ensemble included symbolic brooches representing both the Philippine flag and her LoveYourself advocacy. A look that balanced style with statement.

6. Dr. Aivee Teo – Paul Cabral

She fused French lace panels with polka-dot fabrics in a timeless black-and-white terno. The result: a sophisticated nod to heritage and personal expression.

7. Yassi Pressman – Anthony Ramirez

A powder-blue sculpted terno draped elegantly, complete with ruched butterfly sleeves and pearl clutch. Minimalist yet dramatically striking.

8. Cong. Kathy Gorriceta – Ram Silva

Inspired by the Iloilo Baje weaving community, her terno employed banig weaving for subtle texture and cultural pride—a wearable art piece with meaning.

9. Senator Risa Hontiveros – Michael Leyva

A romantic suit in lace and structured suiting, combining feminine elegance with political authority. She proved fashion could reflect both style and substance.

10. Gladys Cruz–Villanueva – Michael Leyva

A modern terno jumpsuit in black with floral appliqués angled along one shoulder—a sleek but expressive choice that grounded tradition in contemporary tailoring.

What made these looks unforgettable?

** symbolism over spectacle**: Designers used traditional textiles in modern cuts that carried stories of communities, advocacy, and cultural identity.

** protocol vs. personality**: Despite the House directive discouraging ostentation, these women balanced formality with flair—making heritage their headline.

** emotional resonance**: From advocacy pins to locally woven silk, each look affirmed value beyond aesthetics.

Why readers care

More than mere red carpet fashion, these standout ensembles transformed SONA into a subtle runway of socio-cultural commentary. In times of calamity and national trial, attendees used attire to say: we honor tradition—even as we evolve.

What’s next for SONA fashion?

As political narrative and creative expression merge, expect next year’s address to spotlight thoughtfully curated looks with purpose. If designs can shout louder than words, this list proves they can also heal, represent, and inspire.

Stay tuned: industry insiders hint at unpublished behind-the-scenes fashion stories—like designer collaborations with artisan communities that could deepen the cultural layers behind each look.