While Filipinos are commonly known globally for their warm hospitality, resilience, rich cultural heritage, fantastic cuisine, and exceptional talent in arts and entertainment, Filipino designers are also gaining recognition in the global luxury fashion market with their remarkable creativity and craftsmanship that impress high-profile clients from European royalties to Hollywood celebrities. Brands like Aranáz, Filip + Inna, The Tannery, and Celestina have put the country on the map with stylish and unique bags that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.
Owning a luxury bag from a Filipino designer means carrying a piece of the Philippines with you. These bags are a great example of Filipino culture, often drawing inspiration from everyday Filipino life and symbolisms, like iconic jeepneys, neighborhood traditions, and even the country’s stunning landscapes. By choosing these locally made bags, you’re not just getting a stylish accessory but also supporting the local communities and celebrating Filipino heritage.
Related article: Embracing Evolution: The Jeepney’s Choice Between Modernization and Extinction
Looking for a special piece to add to your collection? Here are some luxury bag brands that are proudly Pinoy:
Aranaz: Tradition Meets Contemporary Chic
Aranaz is a renowned Filipino brand specializing in handcrafted bags and accessories, founded by a mother-daughter trio. The brand started in 1999 when Becky Aranaz teamed up with her daughters Amina and Rosanna to create a line of handbags that quickly gained popularity in Manila’s exclusive weekend bazaars.
Aranaz’s designs reflect the rich Filipino culture, featuring intricate weaving, beading, and embroidery handcrafted by talented local artisans. The brand incorporates traditional materials into polished, modern designs, offering a wide range of options from basket bags and beach totes to elegant clutches and handbags. From its humble beginning in the late 1990s, Aranaz has expanded internationally, with its collections available in Neiman Marcus, Farfetch, and Selfridges.
Related article: Cultural Treasures that are Distinctively Filipino
Celestina: Elegance and Innovation
Celestina, a Manila and New York-based brand founded by Celestina Maristela Ocampo in 2006, is celebrated for its elegant designs and innovative use of exotic materials. Known for her refined taste and fashion background as a former model, Ocampo creates statement pieces, including minaudières, totes, and handbags.
The brand’s originality shines through in their meticulous craftsmanship and the use of exotic materials such as rare skins, stones, and metals. Celestina has gained popularity in high-end markets abroad and has garnered a celebrity following, including Hollywood A-listers Halle Berry, Drew Barrymore, and Sandra Bullock. The brand’s collections combine traditional Filipino techniques, contemporary aesthetics, and exotic materials that embody sophistication and iconic styles perfect for the modern-day girl boss.
The Tannery: Mastery in Leathercraft
Currently led by sisters Mariel and Macy Lazaro, The Tannery Manila is a cornerstone of the local leather industry. Spanning four generations of tanners, the company has evolved from being a leather supplier to creating signature bags that combine style, functionality, and versatility. The Tannery Manila is known for its expertise in leather-making, meticulous processes, and artisanal techniques that help ensure high quality.
Aside from a wide variety of leather bags for men and women, The Tannery Manila also offers accessories, such as wallets, passport holders, luggage tags, key holders, cord organizers, eyeglass cases, and more. Their services also include monogramming, made-to-order designs, corporate gifting, and leather repair services.
Filip + Inna: A Fusion of Culture and Couture
Filip + Inna, founded by Len Cabili, is a brand rooted in her love for Filipino culture and a mission to uplift local weavers, embroiderers, and beadworkers from across the country. Len Cabili’s upbringing in Mindanao, surrounded by indigenous weaves and fabrics, instilled in her a deep appreciation for local textiles. Filip + Inna is dedicated to celebrating Filipino craftsmanship by incorporating age-old techniques into modern luxury items.
Each locally-made piece is crafted by talented artisans from various indigenous groups across the Philippines, ensuring that traditional crafts are preserved while improving the livelihood in these communities. Filip + Inna’s designs, from their iconic beaded clutches to their hand-embroidered leather bags, draw inspiration from the country’s cultural heritage, showcasing intricate beadwork and embroidery that reflect the beauty and depth of Filipino traditions.
Related article: Why Buying Local Filipino-Made Products is Important
Other Designers To Watch Out For
The Filipino luxury bag scene is flourishing, with several designers making waves internationally by blending traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics to create unique, high-quality pieces. Here are other Filipino luxury bag designers to watch out for:
Carl Jan Cruz
Carl Jan Cruz is known for his innovative designs, which have gained international recognition. His colorful and versatile totes, relaxed hobo bags, placemat-shaped bags, bucket bags, and bowling bags are popular among fashion-forward consumers. His collection of rib bags sold out in minutes upon its release—a true testament to Cruz’s creative expertise and influence on the modern market.
Zarah Juan
Zarah Juan’s handbags symbolize cultural continuity and support for artisan communities. Her wearable art designs, such as the Jeepney Tote, Islaw Kalabaw, and Takatak Bag, are inspired by the vibrant Filipino culture. Zarah’s brand emphasizes collaboration with Indigenous communities, ensuring each design is unique and meticulously handcrafted.
Neil Felipp
Neil Felipp San Pedro launched his label in 2010 and has since earned acclaim from the local and international fashion scene. He won the Accessory Category of the British Council’s Look of Style Awards in 2014, and his one-of-a-kind handcrafted pieces gained further international attention when they were featured in the movie Crazy Rich Asians.
Final Thoughts
So, if you plan to buy a new luxury bag, don’t hesitate to go local! Opting for a piece crafted by Filipino artisans will give you a unique, beautifully crafted piece representing the best Filipino creativity and craftsmanship. This provides the perfect opportunity to own a luxurious, distinctive fashion piece while celebrating Filipinos’ phenomenal talent and creativity.
Related article: Fashion Brands You May Not Have Known to Be Filipino
–
Featured Image by www.thetannerymanila.com
