Spotted: a baguette bag called Ciriaco
Featured on Essence, Forbes, Paper, and even on Beyoncé’s website, Ciriaco is the fresh fashion brand you should look out for. But here on Fashion On The Beat, we do not suggest you the it products just because they’re trendy and get thousands of likes on social media. We highlight the most vibrant brands and the people behind their items, their admirable projects, and their creative mindset. And once again, the curly flower has spotted an eye-catching, tantalizing piece of fashion. Let’s get to know Ciriaco and the face behind it, Ashley Ciriaco.
With my two sharp hazel-nut eyes I got the chance to spot Ashley’s work with Ciriaco. It all started on social media, specifically on Twitter. Someone in my network was already familiar with the brand and shared a couple of images on the timeline. I couldn’t help but be intrigued by the shape of Ashley’s bag: an upside-down hunched baguette bag with faux cow-inspired leather in light blue, baby pink, chocolate brown, and cloudy grey. Something different, something captivating: I had to know more (and purchase a small gift for myself, because yes!)
I can’t wait to see the flourishing and promising journey this fashion brand has ahead. What I liked about Ashley’s journey is that she took the leap to invest in herself, within adequate means and resources to start her big dream. These are the kind of individuals celebrated here on Fashion On The Beat: courageous people with attentive projects, ready to conquer the world. Before it’s too late, make yourself a favour and start looking out for a Ciriaco bag!
Who's the talent behind Ciriaco?
My name is Ashley Ciriaco owner of Made by Ciriaco/ Ciriaco. I’m originally from Atlanta, Georgia but moved to the Bronx, New York for college at Berkeley College and graduated this year in April with an Associate degree in Fashion and Marketing.
When and where did Ciriaco start?
I started my brand officially in August of 2020, but I’ve wanted to for as long as I can remember. Using my Financial Aid refund, I decided to be “selfish” and invest in my dreams. I stayed up for consecutive nights researching manufacturers, who could do it best in my price range with the best of quality and of course without animal cruelty and which ideas out of my sketchbooks people would love the most, and eventually found what worked for me.
Among all the products that fashion puts out in the market (dresses, t-shirts, pants, lingerie, bracelets, earrings, etc.), why do you feel a stronger connection with bags?
I think designing bags are so much fun. There are so many colors and textures and ideas to choose from. It’s hard to just want to focus on one design at a time, but I’m huge on perfecting my craft. I want the bags to be a statement piece.
How would you describe your business modus operandi?
I want my clients to feel more like a family. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. That’s why I always show love and gratitude towards every post or tweet they share about Ciriaco and show how appreciative I am.
What is the mission you've already achieved with Ciriaco and what are the steps you're looking forward to reaching?
A mission I’ve achieved so far with Ciriaco is my clients feeling beautiful and stylish wearing their baguettes. I love seeing their confidence. It tells me what I’m doing is the right thing. Other steps I’m looking forward to reaching are of course high celebrities wearing my bags.
How do you want your brand to be known?
I would describe my brand as playful chicness. Ciriaco is more about bringing fun and simplicity back into your wardrobe, with just the silhouette alone, adding an abstract element to your outfit. The bag's unique shapes are no accident; the silhouettes are intentionally designed to be unmistakable to the eye. If someone were to see it from afar, they would be like, "Oh yeah, that's a Ciriaco”
