Rafè Totengco Gives An Inside Look At The Candy Clutch

Lifestyle Asia caught up with acclaimed designer Rafè Totengco who offered a glimpse into the craftsmanship and inspiration behind his latest creation, the Candy Clutch.

Multi-awarded Filipino designer Rafè Totengco is renowned for his minaudieres and clutches, not only for their exquisite designs but also for their fine detail and craftsmanship. Based in New York, he has received multiple accolades since he launched his brand Rafè New York in 1997. 

Distinct Aesthetic

The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) describes Rafè Totengco as “one of the most acclaimed of a new generation of American-Asian fashion designers.” A member of the CFDA since 1998, Totengco is recognized for his distinct aesthetic: “Rooted in fashion and inspired by travel, art and architecture, Totengco designs for the woman who chooses the road less traveled. Skilled in balancing fashion and function, he creates products that loyal fans say never go out of style.”

Rafè Totengco, Creative Director and Founder, Rafè New York

Rafè Totengco, Creative Director and Founder, Rafè New York / Photo courtesy of Rafè Totengco

His honors and awards include: Independent Handbag Designer Awards Iconoclast Recipient for Lifetime Achievement in Handbag Design (2013); “Pamana ng Filipino” Presidential Award for Filipino Individuals Overseas for bringing his home country honor and recognition through excellence and distinction in his profession in international fashion design (2010); One of “50 Outstanding Asian Americans in Business” from the Asian American Business Development Center (AABD) (2008); “Asian Entrepreneur of the Year” (AEY) award from Asian Enterprise Magazine (2007);”Achievement Award for Entrepreneurship” from Filipinas Magazine (2005); “Ten Outstanding Young Men” (TOYM) trophy from the Philippine Jaycees, awarded personally by the President of the Philippines (the first time in its 50-year history that this honor was granted to a fashion designer) (2002); “Best Accessories Designer” (ACE award) from the Accessories Council (2001); “Rising Star” award from Fashion Group Internatational (FGI) (2000); Finalist, Perry Ellis Accessory Design Award, CFDA Gala (1999); “Ten Best” award by ENK International judging panel (1997); and The “Fresh Faces in Fashion” award from Gen Art (1996).

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An Inside Look At The Candy Clutch

Lifestyle Asia spoke with the celebrated designer who shared an exclusive glimpse into the artistry behind his latest creation, the Candy Clutch.

Tell us about the Candy Clutch.

“The Candy Envelope Clutch is a sleek and classic style crafted from all over shimmery crystal rhinestones embellished on satin and finished off with a discreet hardware on the flap. It’s fully lined with an inside slip pocket and comes with a removable shoulder chain strap so you can wear the clutch as a cross body. It is the perfect clutch to wear if you want to sparkle all night.”

The Candy Envelope Clutch in Champagne, Fuchsia/Orange Ombré, Silver, and Gold/Bronze Ombré / Photos courtesy of Rafè New York

What or who was your inspiration for this piece?

“I was inspired by my friend Candy Dizon; her sparkling personality, optimism, and brilliance. She has a busy social schedule and is always dressed impeccably. I thought this envelope clutch could complement her jewelry and her ensembles.”

Candy Dizon and Rafè Totengco, October 2021

Candy Dizon with Rafè Totengco, October 2021 / Photo courtesy of Rafè Totengco

Can you take us through the process of creating the bag? From conceptualization to the finished product?

“I knew I wanted to use micro rhinestones because I wanted it to appear like a texture instead of an obvious motif. The envelope clutch is a classic style that I believe every woman should own [at least one]. For the Candy clutch, I elongated the silhouette and added a subtle piece of hardware on the flap to accentuate the shape.”

Measuring 8.5″L x 1.5″D x 5.25″H, the fully lined clutch features a magnetic snap closure with inside slip pocket / Photos courtesy of Rafè New York

What do you love most about the Candy Clutch?

“Longevity and versatility are qualities that I aim for when I’m designing a bag. I can see this clutch worn with jeans and a fab top, a cocktail dress, or an evening gown. And more importantly, I believe this is the kind of clutch that you can wear for a very long time.”

What makes it luxurious?

“The Candy Clutch has a subtle shimmer that catches the light beautifully. It doesn’t scream, it whispers.”

The clutch features a removable chain shoulder strap with a 23” drop / Photos courtesy of Rafè New York

Speaking of luxury, what is your own definition of a luxury bag?

“Luxury is all relative, isn’t it? To me, something made just for you, completely done by hand using the best materials, is luxurious. But anything that makes you feel special, happy, and empowered every time you wear it could be luxurious too.”

Eye Candy: Rafè New York’s Candy Clutch in Gold/Bronze Ombré, Fuchsia/Orange Ombré, and Champagne / Photo by Rafè Totengco

What is true luxury for you?

“Time is the ultimate luxury; it’s free, but it’s priceless. You can’t own it, but you can use it. You can’t keep it, but you can spend it. Once lost, you can’t get it back.

I quote a refrain from Boy George’s song, ‘Time won’t give me time.’”

You are a prolific artist! What fuels your creativity?

“What excites me the most is always the idea of the next collection and process that is involved from conceptualizing, sketching, and selecting the colors to fine tuning the details in the specification sheets to the moment they arrive and I get to see the samples. It’s like Christmas day. It’s so gratifying to see the collection come together as I had imagined it.”

Banner photo courtesy of Rafè New York.

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