Celestina Maristela-Ocampo introduced her eponymous label two years ago with signature boxlike minaudieres and clutch bags, handmade from indigenous, natural materials.
Dedicated to adopting age-old craft techniques, Celestina works closely with artisans in her native Philippines: "I am passionate about reviving a dying art. These are old men and women who are willing to work with their tired hands in order to pass on their skills to the next generation”.
Celestina utilizes organic forms sourced from the exotic beaches and mountains of the Philippines. Abalone shells are transformed with silver mounts and semi-precious stones, shagreen and crocodile skins are combined with handcrafted frames to create exquisite clutch box bags.
“With Celestina bags you can not only see that they are carefully handcrafted by artisans, but when you hold one in your hand, you can feel the work and love that has gone into creating it.”
