Can I Tell You...about Clair Concepcion-Barberis.

Clair wearing her namesake bag, the #ClairSlingCrossbody. Photo : Iñigo Arce (@iac.arce)

Can I Tell You…I have known Clair Concepcion-Barberis since the late 80s when I started my fashion brand in Manila. She and her best friends were rebellious teenagers who dared to defy the rules of their strict Catholic school to model for me. We had so much fun going against the status quo in those days. We kept in touch after I moved to New York and whenever I was in Manila, I would always make time to see her and the gang for a proper catch-up.

About twenty years ago, Clair and her husband purchased an island in Palawan as a private family retreat. Slowly over time they built a few more cottages to accommodate more people and eventually due to popular demand opened it up as a boutique resort called Bamboo Private Islands, available to rent for the entire family or a group of friends. The next time I’m back in the Philippines, it’s definitely going to be on top of the list of places to go for a long weekend.

But Clair isn’t one to sit still. She had been dabbling in creative projects over the years and finally decided to launch a design workshop called Artifeks. The goal is to partner creative individuals with artisans who can realize their designs using local materials. Case in point, if you want a chic umbrella similar to the one Clair is holding in the photo, they can make it for you.

On a recent trip to New York, Clair had expressed her desire for a bag that she could wear with everything and wear anywhere, a bag that could dress up even her most casual looks. The #ClairSlingCrossbody I designed with her in mind is crafted from handwoven leather in a super neutral color I call stucco. It’s a grab and go kind of bag that compliments Clair’s easy breezy style.

And judging from these photos, it looks like she loves the bag. It’s so her!

Photo : Iñigo Arce (@iac.arce)

Read our Q & A below :

1.    What is your idea of happiness? That moment or time of deep, real connection.

2.    What is your greatest extravagance? Travel is priceless.

3.    What is your current state of mind? Thunderous!

4.    Whose style do you most admire? Carmen Dell'Orefice and Isabella Rossellini.

5.    What do you consider your greatest achievement? I wouldn't go so far as calling it my greatest achievement (yet!) but certainly an achievement. Starting Artifeks, a design and manufacturing business at an age when one typically slows down. 

6.    What is your most treasured possession? Printed photographs of family and friends.

7.    Who is your favorite writer? Too many!

8.    Which living person do you most admire? I admire a few people, many of them are friends. Each one possesses a particular quality I am inspired by which I try to consciously apply in my life. 

9.    Where is your dream destination? Bhutan and Machu Picchu.

10. What is your motto? Amor Fati.

Clair working on a new project at Artifeks. Photo : Iñigo Arce (@iac.arce)

Can I Tell You...Mom would Love This!

Berna clutch

Can I tell you… I don’t know any mother who doesn’t love flowers. And if your Mom is like mine, she would love the Berna clutch. I have childhood memories of her going to her garden everyday; checking on her flowers and communing with them. I could see how much they made her happy, especially when they were in bloom. To this day whenever she sees flowers in bloom she cannot resist taking a photo.

Berna clutch

The Berna clutch is crafted from natural raffia and embellished with a variety of hand-embroidered floral motifs. Each clutch is fully lined and includes a drop-in gold chain strap so you can wear the clutch on your shoulder.

Berna clutch

Can I Tell You...add some Pops of Color This Season!

Rocio Flap Clutch in fuchsia.

Can I tell you…do you want an instant mood booster this season? Add a colorful bag to your wardrobe this spring. It’s a fun and stylish way to express your personality and add some excitement to your looks. Spring is a season associated with renewal and rejuvenation, and incorporating bright, cheerful colors into your wardrobe can help you embrace that energy and positivity.

Joanna clutch in emerald green.

Wearing colors that you feel confident in, and love, can boost your self-confidence, lift your mood and have a positive effect on those around you.

Lila Top Handle bag in lilac.

It’s always best to choose versatile accessories that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Whether you're heading to a wedding or a casual brunch with friends, a colorful Rafe bag can add a touch of chicness and sophistication to your outfit. And who doesn’t want a little bit of both?

Can I Tell You...Wear White Now!

Small Fernanda woven clutch.

Can I tell you….it’s time to think about wearing white now. As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, we naturally gravitate to lighter and brighter colors. White, in particular, is a popular choice because it represents freshness and new beginnings. White bags can be a great way to add a pop of brightness to your outfit and give you a fresh start for the season.

Kaya woven tote.

The Kaya woven tote and the Small Fernanda clutch are a some of the white bags in the collection that are handwoven by skilled artisans. By choosing one of these handwoven styles, you're not only supporting the craftsmanship of talented individuals, but you're also getting a beautiful accessory that you’ll keep wearing season after season.

Small Fernanda clutch.

White is a versatile and timeless color that complements a wide range of other colors and styles. Unlike bold or bright colors, white is understated and can be paired with almost any outfit without clashing or overpowering the other elements.

Small Fernada clutch.

In addition to the color, these Rafe bags are designed to hold all of your essentials; such as your phone, wallet, sunglasses, and keys, but they’re also compact enough to carry around comfortably. Whether you're running errands or heading out for a night on the town.

KAYA woven tote with crossbody strap.

Ultimately, these white Rafe bags are the perfect bags for the season because they’re stylish, versatile, and beautifully crafted. Whether you're dressing up or keeping it casual, these bags are sure to be a go-to accessory for any occasion.