Our Story
Since her childhood in Peru, Carla Testino has been surrounded by an awareness of aesthetics and art, which she has cultivated thanks to her close relationship with her mother and her brother, fashion photographer Mario Testino. She worked for the US Embassy and the World Bank for several years, but her passion for the arts never ceased to be present, so much so that she created her first fine jewelry atelier in 2006.
This experience allowed her to explore her creativity to the fullest, working with different Peruvian artisans. All this synergy quickly led to success and the exportation of her pieces to Europe and the United States.
In 2015, she started a local brand of fashion bags - Sideral - for women who value the know-how behind indigenous crafts. The brand originated through the symbiosis between the designer and Amazonian communities such as the Shipibo-Conibo, as well as others in the Andean Region.
As part of her journey, Carla Testino was interested in giving back to women living in vulnerable conditions in Peru. She worked closely with women in jails and other underprivileged groups where she recognized the vital role that training and empowerment can play in improving their lives.
Over the following 6 years, Carla reaffirmed her aesthetic vision, which can be described as a mixture of organic and architectural elements. She continued her exploration and experimentation in the world of premium accessories with a new namesake brand: Carla Testino Peruvian Handmade.
Our Purpose
We believe in women empowerment through training and education. We believe in the value of women and in generating equal opportunities. Our commitment is to improve the quality of life of women we work with and their families in Peru and everywhere.
Our Philosophy
Ethical Brand
Our handbags are designed in Peru and manufactured with a high level of technical expertise and detail, crafted to provide comfort and lasting quality. We use LWG-certified leather and Peruvian natural materials such as organic cotton and Suri alpaca fiber.
At the heart of our products is a commitment to social responsibility. Our handbag straps are hand-knitted in organic cotton by Peruvian artisans from the Puskarumy community in Puente Piedra, Lima, Peru. Through fair compensation, training, and visibility, we contribute to improving their economic independence, leadership, self-esteem, and overall quality of life. We also help preserve and revalue Peruvian ancient knitting techniques and cultural knowledge, encouraging their transmission to future generations.
By developing ethical production practices, we promote responsible consumption and help raise awareness among our customers about the importance of shifting consumer habits toward ethically produced, purpose-driven brands.
Sustainability
Our alpaca suppliers are certified in the use of cruelty-free alpaca. In addition, we use organic Tangüis cotton in our straps. As a company, we are constantly looking for environmentally friendly materials of the highest quality.
The philosophy behind Carla Testino Peruvian Handmade is built on these values.