Can I Tell You...who can resist a Happy Bag?
Rafe Totengco
Merging craft, color and culture is something I have always been passionate about and try to incorporate in my collections. While I was conceptualizing my Spring / Summer collection I was serendipitously introduced to Reese Fernandez, the founder of Rags2Riches.
They’re a Philippine based brand that has made a name for themselves for their use of upcycled and overstock fabric and turning them into beautiful accessories while lifting Filipino artisans out of poverty.
There was an immediate synergy between our brands and our shared ethos of giving back to the community and working with locally sourced materials.
Over the course of a few months of Zoom calls, countless emails and WhatsApp messages, I am proud to present a capsule collection that celebrates Filipino culture, creativity, and compassion.
Each Michelle bucket tote is handwoven by artisans using overstock textiles that would have otherwise been discarded. The body is constructed from handwoven abaca and a macrame cage from upcycled fabrics. The stripe drawstring closure keeps all your belongings from falling out and an inside zipper pocket for items you want to safely tucked away.
Photo : Angeline Angeles
R2R provides 200 urban artisans from Metro Manila with sustainable, regular, and dignified livelihood. As a result of the consistent livelihood of artisans, R2R is able to sustain the education of their children, provide better food on their tables, and help them plan for a brighter future.
The Michelle Macrame Bucket Tote in Yellow / Peach. Photo : Angeline Angeles
Can I tell you…these totes are going to put a smile on your face. Say hallelujah, come on get happy.
In a world where fashion and design are often seen as excessive, this Rafe X Rags2Riches tote is proof that style and sustainability can happily and beautifully co-exist.