They say home is where the heart is, but it’s also so much more. “Take a little piece of home with you no matter where you go” is the mantra of the new collection by CFDA member Rafe Totengco and Filipino clothing and lifestyle brand BENCH/.

Totengco may be based in New York, but he is a native of the Philippines, and this collection – featuring both clothes and accessories – is inspired by the country’s Siargao Island. As the press statement puts it, it is “all about loving and living local” – think neutrals, colors, prints, patterns, sporty, and playful. The 26-piece lineup, which is not gender-specific, includes polos and fanny packs in yellow gumamela flowers and T -shirts and zip pouches emblazoned with words like “mahal kita” (which means “I love you” in Filipino) and “Pinoy surfer.”

It is a joyful nod to Totengco’s home country and its beautiful beaches.

The collection was inspired by the designer’s 2016 trip to Siargao. He had heard a lot about the island from friends and wanted to shoot his Spring-Summer 2017 campaign there.

“I am a beach bum at heart and I loved the laid back vibe and the eclectic mix of nationalities all coming together to ride the waves,” he said. “The collection reflects the carefree attitude I felt while I was there. The silhouettes are boxy and loose with some pieces that can be worn by men or women.

“Filipinos now more than ever are the first to appreciate and support Filipino talent,” he added. “The response to the collection has been overwhelmingly positive.”

Check it out!