About

 

BÁRÛ MU is a collection of apparel and accessories intentionally curated for the new generation, bridging the diaspora to their motherland. 

BÁRÛ (bah-roo) means “clothing” in Kapampangan. In Ilokano, Indonesian, and Malay, it means “new.” MU (moo) simply translates as “your/s” - that which belongs to you. In ancient script Kulitan or Baybayin, the MU symbol ᜋᜓ signifies the womb, where we all come from. BÁRÛ MU is an expression of style, rooted in cultural identity. 

Marybelle Bustos is the creative behind Bárû Mu. Born and raised on Tataviam land also known as San Fernando Valley in a large Kapampangan family, fashion has been a prominent influence since she was young. She has fond memories of receiving hand-me-downs from aunts and cousins, attending fittings for special occasion dresses sewn by her grandma's neighbor Apung Feling, and thrifting throughout her teens. This led to her appreciation for fashion as a form of self expression and attending FIDM straight out of high school. Marybelle’s diverse career led her to styling music videos for Filipino American artists in Los Angeles, the Bay Area, and Manila, costume designing, product development and international sales. 

After 20 years of experience in fashion, Marybelle was inspired to create Bárû Mu after her designs were recognized at the 2022 Comic-Con premiere of the FilAm action comedy "Lumpia With a Vengeance." Since then, Bárû Mu has been a community-led and family-driven passion project. As an artist and conscious consumer, Bustos intentionally designs and chooses unique pieces that tell a story.  She enjoys collaborating with creatives with shared values and are rooted in Kapwa (shared identity).

Beyond clothing, Marybelle is also passionate about discovering common threads connecting us to our Austronesian roots and the role it plays in shaping our newfound identities. The combination of storytelling, slow fashion, sustainability, community-building, and cultural awareness is the essence of Bárû Mu.

Thank you for joining us on this journey, as we celebrate your style, your culture with BÁRÛ MU. 

Dakal a Salamat! Luid Kayu!

Kapwa Mu,

Marybelle

 

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