Meet the Handbag Designer that caught the eyes of Blue Ivy Carter and more!
Her sold-out designs went viral! Meet the Designer behind Ciriaco
New York designer Ashley Ciriaco has revolutionized the accessories market with innovative designs. Her brand first caught my attention through a VOGUE editor’s post showcasing her favorite handbags. Recently, Ashley’s creations gained popularity when Blue Ivy Carter wore one of her leopard leather handbags at the 2025 Super Bowl during her mother’s halftime show. The bag quickly became the “it-bag” of the season, trending across social media and even selling out (twice). While trends may fade, Ashley’s timeless designs, reminiscent of Marc Jacobs’s Tote bag and Coach’s Tabby, have carved a unique niche in a competitive landscape. Ashley’s unapologetic approach to design sets her ahead of her peers. I got the chance to Interview Ashley and chat about her success, her brand, and where she’s headed next.
Shop Ciriaco HERE
Blue Ivy Carter carrying her Ciriaco handbag
FEATURED INTERVIEW
Hi Ashley! I’m so excited to chat with you. How are you?
I’m well! So nice to finally speak with you. I’m super busy with getting orders out, it’s one of the busiest months for me.
Your brand has kicked the year off in style with Miss Blue Ivy sporting your “Ashley Minimalist Baguette.” How did that moment feel for you, especially during Black History Month?
This moment was incredibly special and powerful. Seeing such an influential young icon like Blue Ivy wear the Ashley Minimalist Baguette was a surreal experience—it truly reaffirmed that all of my hard work is paying off. It was also deeply meaningful to have this moment happen during Black History Month, a time of honoring resilience, excellence, and cultural impact. It reminded me to keep pushing forward, no matter the challenges of building a business from the ground up.
Has fashion and design always been part of your childhood life? What was it like growing up?
Absolutely! Fashion has been a passion of mine since childhood. I grew up watching fashion-based shows and sketching designs whenever I had the chance. I also loved helping my mom put together outfits for special occasions in the early 2000s—it was such a fun and creative process. Those experiences shaped my love for styling and design and made fashion feel like a natural part of who I am.
Ashley Minimalist Baguette 2.0 – Available HERE
With scaling any business, you’re forced to listen to your customers—how has your business evolved over the years?
I truly value feedback because it shows that people care about and respect Ciriaco. Being open to learning and improving is essential for longevity in this industry. Over the years, my brand has evolved in so many ways—from enhancing quality and refining our marketing to elevating photoshoots and branding. I started this journey at 20, turning 21, and now, at 25 going on 26, my mindset has completely transformed. Growth has been a continuous process, and I’m always striving to take Ciriaco to the next level.
Often, people aspire to run a business but may not understand the challenges that come with it. How do you remain positive in the fast-paced world of e-commerce?
I believe in taking risks on yourself and not being afraid of failure. There’s only one you, and that uniqueness is your strength. Success doesn’t happen overnight—good things take time. I’ve learned to stay focused on my journey and not compare my progress to what I see on social media. Perspective is everything, and understanding that challenges are part of the process helps me stay motivated and positive.
What does a “day off” look like for you?
I handle almost everything myself, so true days off are rare! But when I do get the chance to slow down, it usually means sleeping in past 8 AM and spending the morning watching My Wife and Kids. It’s the simple moments of relaxation that feel the best.
I’ve been eyeing your dip into clothing! We love the bomber jacket—can customers expect more clothing selections this year?
Yes! Clothing has always been part of my vision. Many people don’t realize that I started with handbags and accessories as a way to establish Ciriaco’s name first, but I’ve always wanted to expand into apparel. This year, you can definitely expect more clothing pieces as I continue to grow and evolve the brand.
Do you have a favorite item on the site?
Right now, my favorite piece is the Ashley Minimalist 2.0. The Ciriaco hardware on the handle is so chic to me—it’s a beautiful, refined detail that makes the bag feel extra special.
Can you share advice for any young girl or boy who may want to follow in your footsteps?
Embrace your journey—every step, every challenge, and every success is shaping you for what’s to come. As cliché as it may sound, everything happens for a reason. I truly believe that the obstacles we face prepare us for the blessings ahead so that when we receive them, we don’t take them for granted. Stay persistent, trust the process, and never stop believing in yourself.
