Why the “genggeng” culotte is the new king of Manila streetwear

The A-Frame silhouette: Reclaiming the culotte for the modern Filipino male.

Whether you call them “genggeng pants,” “balloon crops,” or “wide-leg trousers,” the male-centric culotte has become a staple in the Philippine streetwear scene recently.

In the local hip-hop and “geng” scenes, these pants, extreme wide-leg crops that offer the architectural volume of a skirt with the “tough” utility of trousers, offer the ultimate tropical hack. Sitting typically at the mid-calf, they bring heavy-duty style while allowing maximum airflow in Manila’s humidity.

From aristocrats to the “stunna” scene

The word “culotte” comes from the French “knickers” worn by 18th-century European male aristocrats. In the 1970s, it was the “power suit” of the liberated Filipina. Fast forward to today, and the trend has been reclaimed by the local hiphop and “stunna” scenes.

The 2026 male culotte is defined by the “A-frame” silhouette. Unlike the female version that prioritizes “flow,” the male version is boxy and stiff. 

Essentially, there are two types: the genggeng look with heavyweight 300gsm+ waffle or terry fabrics that hold their shape. It’s usually paired with an oversized “Pro Club” tee and chunky kicks. Then, there’s the stunna look with high-fashion linens or weighted cottons. It’s usually paired with a cropped jacket and boots or loafers.

You have probably noticed that most genggeng pants use waffle-knit fabric. There’s a reason for this beyond style: The honeycomb texture creates a “micro-climate” between the skin and the fabric, making it surprisingly breathable for the Manila heat while remaining heavy enough to keep that “A-frame” structure without looking like a skirt.

When it comes to male culottes, are you team genggeng or team stunna?