About Marina Raphael
The Business
Pushing the boundaries of what is expected from a handbag, Marina Raphael establishes a powerful mindset through designs that inspire and embolden today’s woman.
Founded by Marina Raphael, a sixth-generation member of the Swarovski family, the brand is shaped by a legacy of precision and a pursuit of perfection, elevated by a distinctive touch of sparkle. From a subtle accent of a single Swarovski crystal to fully embellished creations, her vision reinterprets heritage through a modern lens.
Designing the next generation of luxury handbags, Marina Raphael creates objets d’art that become modern heirlooms. Crafted by Italian artisans, each piece merges craftsmanship with innovation, where strong architectural forms serve as canvases for creativity, quality, and a responsible ethos.
Inspired by the visionary women in her family, Marina Raphael is a modern power player for women who move through the world with purpose.
The Design Philosophy
Marina Raphael constructs collections in adherence with architectural design principles. An analytical approach to function and form underpins the design ethos, resulting in statement pieces with a commitment to bold and powerful self-expression.
A Modernist approach is grounded in a strictly rational use of materials. Precision and architectural lines create minimalist formations in structured and graphic shapes for an imposing and empowering accessories line-up that pushes back against predetermined rules.
The Marina Raphael design vision is a careful balance of innovation and tradition, blending the two worlds to build a heritage brand driven by a groundbreaking mindset. Daring creations and ambitious styles meet classic handmade Italian craftsmanship and quality, produced by skilled artisans.
The Designer
An equally strategic and creative energy sees Marina operate as CEO and Creative Director of her eponymous brand. Marina also holds the position of Artistic and Design Director of Handbags for the world-renowned fashion and couture house, Elie Saab. Through her design expertise, Marina plays a pivotal role in shaping the expansion of this category.
Born to a Swiss-Austrian mother and a Greek father, Marina has an innate affinity for exploration that informs her brand. Exposure to architecture, art and a variety of cultures has instilled a global vision that shapes the business.
Marina approaches her work with a strong belief that designs should excite and engage the mind. Always looking for the unexpected, Marina takes the design path less travelled resulting in pieces that are unique in both fabrication and concept. Creating with driven and dynamic women in mind, these values along with her entrepreneurial spirit have earned her a place on the Forbes 30 under 30 Europe list.
Our Sustainable Vision
Marina's personal respect for the environment and humanity is translated into a responsible and sustainable business.
The design ethos ensures that the creation of each handbag is the result of impeccable craftsmanship made to last. All Marina Raphael designs are timeless and defined by an intergenerational appeal.
A commitment to partnering with local artisans, situated in Tuscany, infuses every step of production with a skillset passed down from generation to generation. The passion for artistry is embedded within each statement piece created.
Rigorous monitoring and absolute precision ensure a near-0-waste policy coupled with the upcycling of leftover material. Tanning small quantities of leather uses less water and energy, and through selecting top quality textiles such as napa, suede or eco-wool, Marina Raphael handbags incorporate naturally biodegradable properties.
Core partner, Swarovski, known for their unrivalled sustainability agenda, oversees the Marina Raphael production.
The Iconic Riviera
Marina Raphael is recognized around the world for the RIVIERA. Designed to be timeless yet avant-garde, the RIVIERA is a modern classic, emblematic of the brand's design ethos.
One of the first Marina Raphael styles, the signature silhouette is created in a variety of sizes and variations. Value is placed on function and form for a bag that can carry you through day to night.
Recognized for the juxtaposition of glossy, angular handles against soft leather, The RIVIERA speaks to Marina's love of architecture. Melding both modern and classic design principles, the graphic shape is recreated in an array of fabrications, perfected by craftsmen who employ heritage techniques for lasting quality.
The RIVIERA has been worn by Jennifer Lopez, Katie Holmes, Queen Maxima of The Netherlands, Candice Swanepoel and many more. Shop our selection of classic Riviera handbags here.