When Rafaela returned to Portugal after her accessory design studies in Florence, she launched her own line of accessories. She shares her post-program impressions of Florence and FAST below.
Where is Rafaela now?
ELLA MONTCORDOVA
Luxury Accessories
My background is very different from what I am doing now, considering that I have a dentistry degree. After six years of studying dentistry at college, I worked for two years in hospitals and clinics here in Portugal.
Soon after, I realized that I was professionally unhappy, and after some deep reflection I decided to enroll in a fashion program. I’ve always loved to create since childhood and even during college I was constantly drawing accessories. After seeking and researching many schools, I chose Florence University of the Arts. It was the only place that really had what I was looking for - a solid accessories design program.
I have to say that my time at FUA was the most special and happy period of my life. For the first time, I felt at home at a program thanks to the institution, and not only because I learned important subjects pertaining to my field and gained invaluable knowledge from the faculty. Most importantly, FUA was the place where I met new people, including former instructors who are now dear friends. Every single second was priceless and I took away this experience in my heart. It is present in my life and in my work every single day.
UPDATE: Since launching ELLA MONTCORDOVA, I have already made 2 collections of my own, but am now searching for a new partner/investor to help my brand grow!
