Rafe New York 'Isla' large studded tote

Biker 'tude.  This heavily studded tote from Rafe New York is nothing but.  It is funky, chic and ready to take on a journey of a woman's busy and complicated life.  You can get this at Endless for $475.  This is also available in black and beige.

Rafe New York 'Kim' minaudiere

Remember the 'Karolina' clutch by Rafe New York?  Also from the same designer, here is the super cute 'Kim' minaudiere that can fit your date essentials--lipstick, credit card, cash and cellphone.  It has a gold tone chain handle for easy carrying and a push lock closure for easy access of your belongings.  This minaudiere, like the 'Karolina' clutch is made of Tinalak--a fabric that is carefully weaved by the T'boli tribe of South Cotabato in the Philippines.  You can have this at Zappos Couture for $279.

Rafe New York 'Karolina' clutch

One of the many reasons why I am proud to be a Filipino is because of the many Filipinos who are making their name in the international scene like Rafe Totengco who is one of the established leather goods brand in the US.  His first collection of bags were featured at Bergdorf Goodman, a posh shopping site in in New York, and the rest is history.  An example of his work is this 'Karolina' clutch with intricate tribal-inspired beading details on the magnetic snap closure flap. 

To see more of Rafe's handbags and other leather goods, click here.