about our designers
RafeIn 1989, Rafe Totengco left behind his successful business in Manila to pursue a career in fashion design. He moved to New York, enrolled in the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) and gained experience working as a design assistant. In 1994, a Soho boutique asked him to produce a collection of belts and watchbands. When they sold out instantly, the boutique requested for Rafe to design a grouping of handbags to sell alongside the small leather goods. One year later, the first collection of Rafe handbags debuted. Since then, the Rafe brand has grown to include women’s handbags, shoes and small leather goods. Known for its balance of fashion and function, Rafe blends uptown sophistication with downtown edge while remaining classic enough to be worn for many seasons to come. Over the years, Rafe Totengco has become one of the most acclaimed of a new generation of American designers. He has been recognized in his field with numerous honors including: FRESH FACES IN FASHION TOYM (Ten Outstanding Young Men) THE “TEN BEST” AWARD ENTREPRENEURSHIP AWARD FINALIST, CFDA ASIAN ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR RISING STAR AWARD OUTSTANDING 50 ASIAN AMERICANS IN BUSINESS AWARD BEST ACCESSORIES DESIGNER
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