ELIE SAAB Named Marina Raphael As Artistic & Design Director Of Handbags
by Angela Chan-Danisi · ForbesA global icon in the making: Marina Raphael's Trailblazing Rise in the Luxury Accessories Universe
Marina Raphael, the creative mind behind her eponymous handbag brand, is embarking on an exciting new chapter in her journey. Her appointment as the Artistic and Design Director of Handbags at the world-renowned fashion house ELIE SAAB is a significant milestone. At just 26, Raphael has achieved a position that exemplifies her hard work, creativity, business acumen, and commitment. Her journey inspires aspiring designers, showcasing how individuality and dedication can lead to success in the luxury fashion industry.
Raphael's story to success began with a strong foundation in creativity and early exposure to craftsmanship. As a sixth-generation member of the Swarovski family, she grew up in a culture rich in artistry and innovation, which fuelled her fascination with quality and design. Despite being part of Swarovski's 125 years of established influence, Raphael boldly created her company from the ground up. At 19 years old, she launched her luxury handbag brand, Marina Raphael, while studying business management at King's College in London. She was determined to make her mark in the fashion industry.
Although Raphael did not pursue formal education in fashion design, she possessed a natural creative talent combined with business acumen. These skills became invaluable as she navigated the challenges of the fashion industry. Traveling between Greece, Austria, Florence, London, and New York to build every aspect of her company, Raphael took on the role of a hands-on entrepreneur, learning all facets of design, production, supply chain, and global brand-building.
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As a young entrepreneur, Marina Raphael faced many challenges. Some doubted her due to her age, but she was determined to prove herself through the quality and uniqueness of her products. Her focus on creating exceptional quality handbags with powerful statements of individuality and elegance, inspired by architecture, nature, and her global travels, immediately drew attention to the luxury space. This determination and focus on quality set her apart in the industry. Her design philosophy is deeply personal, with each piece inspired by elements she encounters during her travels or in nature, such as the ombre hues of a sunset and the clean lines found in architectural details. Many of her items feature Swarovski crystals, which enhance their elegance and appeal.
The Marina Raphael brand has made a name for itself in the accessible luxury goods market by emphasizing high-quality, handcrafted items priced between $700 and $1,500. This pricing strategy effectively positions beautifully crafted products at a lower price point than those of other major luxury brands, which Raphael believes gives her a competitive advantage and has contributed to the success of her business. Her vision is to develop the next generation of luxury handbags and build an accessories universe.
Raphael's first big break came when Moda Operandi hosted a trunk show for her bags, only weeks after she launched her brand, opening international markets and establishing her as a promising young designer. Her commitment to precision and quality caught the attention of retailers like Harrods, Neiman Marcus, Luisaviaroma and El Corte Ingles and attracted a loyal following. Celebrities and royals, including the Queen of the Netherlands, Emma Roberts, Jennifer Lopez, Alicia Keys, and Priyanka Chopra, have been spotted carrying her pieces, further solidifying the brand's position in the luxury market.
Raphael's appointment as Artistic & Design Director of Handbags for ELIE SAAB is a significant milestone and a perfect alignment of vision and values. Her approach will be to design collections that meet the needs of modern women while staying true to ELIE SAAB's DNA of timeless elegance and exceptional craftsmanship. Raphael's first designs are set to debut at the brand's Haute Couture Show in Paris in January 2025.
Elie Saab Jr, CEO of ELIE SAAB Group: “We are excited to pursue the handbag category with Marina, whose impressive track record and proven ability to translate the brand's vision will enhance our potential for success. Her past achievements and dedication to excellence assure us that she is the perfect partner for this endeavor. Marina has consistently demonstrated her capability to innovate and drive results, aligning seamlessly with our brand's goals and values”.
"Working with Mr. Elie Saab, who has cultivated my passion for exceptional quality and craftsmanship, is a humbling experience," she shared. "He has been a revolutionary in the world of couture and fashion, and his unparalleled creativity and attention to detail have always left me in awe." Raphael's journey has come full circle, from her early fascination with luxury craftsmanship to leading a division within one of the most esteemed names in high fashion.
Marina Raphael's appointment at ELIE SAAB is a testament to her journey from a young designer with a dream to a respected leader in the luxury fashion industry. Her story showcases a profound passion for design, a solid commitment to quality, and a belief in creating pieces that transcend trends. She advises young designers to "remain confident and stay dedicated to your vision," a lesson she has fully embraced throughout her journey. She says, "The hardest thing about creating a successful brand is establishing an identity that people love and recognize." Through her work, Raphael is building a brand and a legacy that speaks to the modern, empowered woman and reflects her unique vision. With ELIE SAAB, she will continue to push the boundaries of luxury design, crafting handbags that embody her dedication to beauty, innovation, and authenticity. This journey marks an exciting new era for Marina Raphael and ELIE SAAB, bringing together two powerful forces in the luxury fashion industry to redefine the future of luxury accessories.
MARINA RAPHAEL BIO
Marina Raphael, a modern power player, is renowned for her eponymous luxury handbag brand. Seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with heritage craft, she transforms strong, architectural shapes into accessories that empower and elevate. Her innovative designs push the boundaries of what is expected from a handbag, exploring the power of a single transformative accessory. Championed by notable names, celebrities and royalty, Marina has established a formidable presence in the fashion industry.
Focused on building a heritage brand, Marina aims to create legacy pieces that will shape the next generation of luxury handbags. As a sixth-generation member of the Swarovski family, her DNA is rich in creativity, craftsmanship, and brilliance. Her precision and pursuit of perfection are exemplified by her signature use of Swarovski crystals.
Remaining the Creative Director of Marina Raphael, she now also embraces the role of Artistic & Design Director of Handbags at Fashion House ELIE SAAB.