Want to add a bit of retro flair to your style? Take some style cues from the fashionable actresses of Philippine cinema’s Golden Age. Here’s a list of local icons donning fits we’d love to cop.
Gloria Romero
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Gloria Romero built a reputation as one of the most beautiful faces during the golden age of Philippine cinema. Born Gloria Galla, she started her acting career as an extra for “Ang Lumang Bahay sa Gulod” (1949) before joining Sampaguita Pictures. The 87-year-old actress has won multiple accolades for her work in films like “Dalagang Ilocana” and “Tanging Yaman.”
During the ’50s, Romero was declared Miss Visayas at a Miss Philippines International Fair and she also became the face of Coke. She was among the list of actresses who wore Pitoy Moreno’s reinterpretations of the saya and Ramon Valera’s terno creations. She exuded grace and subtle elegance.
Nida Blanca
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Although Nida Blanca played a wide range of roles, starring opposite Nestor de Villa in comedy-musicals catapulted her to stardom. Born Dorothy Acueza Jones, Blanca’s 50-year career started in 1951 with LVN Pictures. Among her most notable works are “Waray-waray” and “Grand Finale,” while the sitcom “John en Marsha” made her a household name.
Blanca’s style was more on the playful side. She rocked multi-colored ruffles, sweetheart necklines, studded bodysuits, and even floral bathing suits. She knew how to have fun.
Rosa Rosal
Rosa Rosal was dubbed the “original femme fatale of Philippine cinema.” Born Florence Danon, she made a name for herself for taking daring, kontrabida roles. She’s starred in films such as “Virginia,” “Sumpaan,” and “Amor Mio.”
Her signature look included bright red lipstick and hair with lots of volume that emphasized her widow’s peak. She wore mermaid-cut dresses and skirts with off-shoulder tops that showed off her midriff. Her outfits would still be considered pretty sexy today, TBH.
Lilia Dizon
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One of the most sought-after actresses at the time, Lilia Dizon, who was born Claire Strauss, was known for both her sex goddess status and acting chops, which won her the title of Asia’s Best Actress at the 1954 Cambodia Film Festival.
Some of her notable films include “Bathaluman” and “Kandelerong Pilak.” From tube top dresses and retro bikinis to butterfly sleeved tops and engkantada-worthy attires, Dizon shined in all her outfits. We love a versatile queen.
Tessie Quintana
Having started out as a dancer slash singer at the Life Theater at a young age, it was natural for Teresita “Tessie” Quintana to move to the big screen. She’s best known for her tandem with Armando Goyena in films such as “Virginia,” “Talisman,” and “Tia Loleng.”
Though we see her in a fun summer fit in “Hawayana,” Quintana’s go-tos were knee-length dresses or the polo and straight-cut pants combo. Her outfits perfectly showed how women of the ’50s fashion were trying on more modern silhouettes while keeping a dainty flair.
Who’s your favorite among these actresses?
Art by Pammy Orlina
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