Founded by lifelong friends Queenie Fan and Day Lau in Hong Kong in 2015, Cafuné is a modern accessories brand that celebrates craftsmanship and quality materials. Fan, a former Coach, Rag&Bone and 3.1 Phillip Lim designer, partnered with long time friend Lau upon her return from New York to start something of their own; one took on product development and creative direction, while the other business and management duties. Their debut collection includes three styles – the Camber Satchel, the Cube Tote and the Edge Crossbody – crafted with Italian calfskin and finished off with intricate details; see bespoke hardware and marble elements. Read on as Fan elaborates on her young brand and its promising future.
What were you doing before Cafuné, and what was the turning point that made you decide to start your own brand?
Before Cafuné, I was a handbag designer in New York with experience at various brands such as Rag&Bone and Coach. The idea to start my own brand started from a conversation I had with my best friend Day, who is now my business partner. We’ve always wanted to do projects together, and at that time, we felt like we were ready to start a brand.
Where do you source the materials you use and where are your products made? Can you please explain this decision?
Our leather is sourced from Italy and our bags are made in China. In my previous job, I had great experiences working with factories in China. Their skill sets are very advanced, and I can communicate well with them. So, we feel comfortable and confident to have our products made in China.
How did you decide on the shapes and materials to include in your debut collection?
I’m always drawn to simple forms and silhouettes when it comes to accessories, so I explored how geometric shapes bring out the functionality of different handbags. In our debut collection, we introduced real marble stone as key element. Therefore, I picked smooth cow leather to contrast it with the natural marble texture.
How easy was it making a material like marble fit into a functional piece?
It is more challenging to use marble as a material for handbags. During the design process, we have to take into account its characteristics, form and texture. We want to highlight the beauty of marble whilst keeping in mind the functionality of the bags.
What are some manufacturing practices that are important to you, and why?
Given the geographical proximity, we are able to visit our factory quite often, hence maintaining a strong relationship with them. We believe having a good working condition and environment, with a clear policy towards recycling, energy efficiency and reducing waste, are important principles that are fundamental to Cafuné.
Looking back to when you left New York to return to Hong Kong, do you think that launching your business in your home country was a wise decision?
I think it was a right decision to launch our business in Hong Kong. The city is at a stage where art and design is growing and gaining more recognition. It is exciting, and we are honured to be part of the community as a Hong Kong-based design brand.
You recently introduced your capsule collection in New York. Tell us a few words about the criteria based on which you decide on the events that work for promoting your brand.
I feel that New York will be a good place for newcomers. People are very open to new things, and there are many established shows and events that are catered to emerging brands.
I read in a previous interview that you believe in the power of social media. What are some other channels that could bring organic growth for an emerging designer?
Doing pop-ups in the beginning was good for us. People were excited to see and try on the collection in person. We got to engage with them and share our concept.
What are your future plans?
We would like to expand internationally. Potentially expand categories in the future as well.
www.ca-fune.com
Images © Cafuné