We ask New York-based Filipino fashion designer Rafe Totengco, known for his vibrant accessories, our 21 questions.
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When I get dressed in the morning I think…of which printed shirt I’m in the mood for.
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The item of clothing I’m currently wearing most is…a printed piped pajama shirt from Michael Bastian.
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The last thing I Googled was…the myth surrounding Machu Picchu; I love reading about ancient cultures and mythologies.
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If my days had one extra hour I’d…end up working longer.
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I knew I was meant to work in fashion because…when I was in 5th grade I started tweaking the fit and details of my school uniform, much to the chagrin of the school principal.
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The reason I’m so passionate about accessories…is because they have the ability express a woman’s personality and lifestyle all in one.
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When I’m looking to get inspired I…walk out of my apartment. Inspiration is everywhere especially in New York City.
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When I’m stressed I…go for a yoga class.
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My beauty essentials include…sleep and a good moisturizer from Aesop or Tata Harper.
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I’d never travel without…my Muji sketchbook and my Leica camera.
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The best advice I ever got…was if you can make someone happy because of your design then you’re doing something right, and you need to keep doing it!
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When hiring someone the qualities I look for…are poise, eloquence, innate style and talent.
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My fashion pet peeve is…clothes that are too tight, too short and nothing is left to the imagination. I want to be seduced, not assaulted.
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On a typical Saturday night I…chill at home with my partner, enjoy a good dinner and watch an old movie on Netflix.
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The one electronic I couldn’t go a day without is…my iPhone.
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If I could have dinner with anyone it would be…Tzu-Hsi, the Empress Dowager of China. She was a very powerful and largely misunderstood woman in history and I loved her ceremonial costumes.
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I’m dying to splurge on…a Safari trip at the Okavango Delta.
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The last book I read was…Answered Prayers: The Unfinished Novel by Truman Capote.
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The song I’m currently listening to most…Get Lucky by Daft Punk.
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I’m happiest when…traveling to somewhere new.
- My guilty pleasure is…Instagram! I’m obsessed!