Can I Tell You ... about my collaboration with Mestiza New York.

We all know that feeling you have when you meet someone and you just know you’re going to get along. That’s exactly how I felt when I met Alessandra years ago. We have a shared heritage and it’s something we are very proud of. We just get each other.

"I am so thrilled for the opportunity to collaborate with Rafe Totenco, whom I’ve long admired since my early days in New York, when I dreamed of becoming a fashion designer. I first got to meet him back in 2016 at a Christmas party thrown by a mutual friend, and he doesn’t know this but I felt like I was meeting a huge celebrity! Ever since starting Mestiza I always knew I wanted to partner with him in some way, especially since we are both so closely tied to our Filipino heritage and always reference it in our collections. This collaboration has truly been a full circle moment for me, because getting the opportunity to partner with a fellow Filipino designer who paved the way is such an honor." - Alessandra Perez-Rubio

I admire how their clothing continuously reference Alessandra’s Filipino heritage akin to what I do when I design my handbags. Alessandra had approached me last year about doing a collaboration and it was an immediate yes for me. From start to finish, collaborating with them was so harmonious and stress-free. I’m thrilled that the clutches compliment their clothes perfectly.

“This was a match made in heaven, a tropical heaven.” - Rafe Totengco

Can I Tell You...Think Warm Thoughts.

Berna clutch embroidered with Spring blooms.

Thinking about Spring and Summer always fills me with excitement. The prospect of going to a warm and sunny destination makes me visualize day and evening looks and what to pack.

Conchita Shell Minaudiere

When planning which accessories to bring, my advice would be to take a bag that you can wear with most of your clothes and one that also makes the most visual impact I.e. Instagram worthy.

Katie clutch in sea foam.

Here are a few of my favorites from the Spring / Summer collection. These are statement pieces that will be sure to set you apart from the crowd and guaranteed to get the most envious side glances. And let’s face it…who doesn’t enjoy a little bit of that kind of attention?

Gen Wicker Clutch

Each Rafe bag incorporates handwoven elements, locally sourced materials and handcrafted techniques that not only provide artisans a livelihood but also preserves the various skilled labor required for each piece.

If you love any of these clutches or other styles from the collection, use code LOVEU at check out and receive 20% less.

So, what are you waiting for?

Sofia Clutch in Lavender and Cerulean Ombre.

Can I tell you...about Tracy Reese.

There are some people that you instantly connect with the moment you meet each other. That’s how it was when I met Tracy. Through the years as members of the CFDA we’ve been each other’s date for so many fun events. At one point we collaborated on a capsule collection of bags for her runway show. I have always admired her feminine style; the way she uses color and print. Women look chic and carefree in her clothes.

When I began designing my Spring - Summer collection I envisioned a kind of bag that would complement Tracy’s style. I think the #tracywickertote trimmed in white leather fits the bill. It’s so neutral that it goes with everything and is surprisingly capacious.

A few years ago, Tracy bought a house in Detroit and has been shuttling back and forth from New York while she embarked on new projects. The most recent is a responsibly designed clothing brand Hope for Flowers. In the meantime Tracy has been building her network of supporters and collaborators to support the core of the brand’s mission, which is to produce a portion of the styles in Detroit and offer free arts education for Detroit public school children.

Read our Q&A below:

What is your idea of happiness? A beautiful day!

What is your greatest extravagance? Taking time each morning to meditate and exercise.

What is your current state of mind? Pensive

Whose style do you most admire? My Mother and Grandmother.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Having a fruitful career doing work that I love.

What is your most treasured possession? My home (s).

Who is your favorite writer? Toni Morrison

Which living person do you most admire? Michelle Obama

Where is your dream destination? The south of France.

What is your motto? Be authentic.

If you love the #TracyWickerTote or any other style from the Spring-Summer collection, use the code RAFELOVES at checkout and receive 20% off.

Offer only valid for US residents and good until June 30, 2021.

Can I Tell You...Say Hello to Summer.

Nothing says summer like blue and white. It’s such a classic combination that always looks fresh on everyone. I love it in everything from small ditsy prints, stripes, ombre’d to patch-worked denim. Now would be a good time to start switching out your wardrobe; store those chunky knits and cozy sweats and replace them with lightweight and easy pieces. Here’s a few items s that I’ve chosen from my collection and from other designers.

If you like any of the Rafe bags from this edit or any other style from the Spring-Summer collection, use the code : LONGWEEKEND and get 25% off.

Offer only valid for US residents and good until June 15, 2021.