I like barongs better when it's not so see through, as I think the white undershirt makes for a weird shape under the long sleeves. I never really thought of wearing barongs outside of formal functions but after a quick search on the net I think it can be done? I think most of our reservations stem from growing up in a culture that considers it as something you only wear for super special occasions like weddings, inaugurals, the like.
![Image](http://i.imgur.com/dWKRfAxl.png)
This looks like what you have in mind, eskdc?
I think layering can modernize the barong and I agree with teck, the translucent quality of the shirt can be an interesting thing to play around with. Personally, I dont think using barongs as a layering piece is inappropriate because technically it's just a shirt, albeit mostly reserved for formal wear. Bowtie guy there in the back looks like he has a barong under the blazer and it's not a bad look, save for the bow tie. Lots of different options in that photo too.
![Image](http://i.imgur.com/6RxUscDl.jpg)
The boots here are an unexpected choice here and without the silly accessories and switching the pants with a pair that's less office slacks-y I think it's a fresh take on the barong.
![Image](http://i.imgur.com/znqMnaMl.jpg)
For womenswear, here's a Valentino look from a couple of years ago that heavily references the barong. I like this look a lot, with the smaller collar and the absence of buttons on the placket. I think it's easier to like because sheer materials are much more commonplace on female clothing and from an aesthetic point of view it's not very different from lace, a material heavily associated with femininity.