Celestina at Lane Crawford

Me, Tina Marsileta-Ocampo (Celestina ), my lovely friend Liv

Last night I went to the Celestina trunk show at Lane Crawford. Celestina is the full name of the accessories and handbag designer Tina Marsitela-Ocampo. Tina is a native (and former model) from Manila, and she uses her heritage as inspirations for her pieces. Actually, Tina combines her vision with the talents and craftsmanship of artisans from the Philippines to take her visions to reality. Tina is most recognized for her incredible box like clutches-Minaudieres, which were in fashion in the 1960s, are tiny jeweled cases that can hold a woman’s lipstick, powder and a little cash for an evening affair, these do not have straps and are hand-held. They are created out of some of the worlds most precious metals, gems, stingray (rawhide), jade, crocodile, and much more.

I had the chance to meet and chat with Tina last night. She filled me in on a little secret....some of her inspirations come from things that she finds around the house. Tina picked up the most beautiful clutch, of course handmade with incredible precision, she explained to me that the design of the shape came from her sons pencil case from school! I thought that was really neat!!

You can pick up your own Celestina clutch from places like Barneys and Bergdorf Goodman in New York, and Lane Crawford here in Hong Kong. Interestingly though, they are not sold in the Philippines!

Natural Mother of Pearl and Brass Clasp


Padded Shagreen with Carved Animal Clasp





Cracked Mirror Clutch