Fewer, Better, (Cleaner) Things: Our Collaboration With Cuyana

We’re all about creating clean, high-performing products that make life simpler. So when the opportunity came to collaborate with Cuyana, a brand that’s been living by the mantra fewer, better things for over a decade, we knew it was a perfect match.

Cuyana was founded in 2011 by Karla Gallardo and Shilpa Shah, two women who set out to create timeless, intentional pieces that fit into your life—not just your closet. Their mission? To help women buy fewer things, but better ones. And it’s worked. From their beautifully made bags to their cult-favorite travel cases, Cuyana has built a loyal following by putting quality, function, and thoughtful design first.

Karla and Shilpa are both moms, so they get how busy life can be. Their beloved handbags and apparel are made to move with you—whether you’re heading to a meeting, traveling with kids, or just need something that works (and looks good) on the go. That’s why teaming up with them felt so natural.

Together, we created two limited-edition sets designed to bring a little luxury and ease into your everyday:

• The Color Set: A rosy-toned makeup trio plus Cuyana’s exclusive Mini Heart Case in Dark Coral
  

• The Radiance Set: A glow-boosting skincare lineup with Cuyana’s Mini Heart Case in Nude
  

Both are perfect for gifting—or treating yourself—and were made with intention, just like everything we do.

We sat down with Karla Gallardo to talk about Cuyana’s journey, her design philosophy, and how she’s learned to balance beauty and function—especially as a mom. Keep reading for her thoughts on quality, minimalism, and what makes the perfect Mother’s Day gift.

RMS: Why do you think RMS and Cuyana are a great fit? How does RMS Beauty’s philosophy align with Cuyana’s “fewer, better things” ethos?  

Karla Gallardo: We have a shared ethos of beautiful products that effortlessly support the routines of modern women; the solution to simplicity and elegance.

RMS: Cuyana has built a brand around intentional, high-quality essentials. Why is this philosophy so important in today’s world?  

KG: Intentional, timeless, and functional design is at the core of our fewer, better philosophy so people cherish what they own and our products stay out of landfills.

RMS: How do you personally embrace “fewer, better things” in your daily lives? 

KG: I use beautiful products that help me stay organized throughout my busy schedule, whether it’s work, family time, or travel. Everything has a purpose and function, sometimes more than one.

RMS: What defines a truly high-quality product for you, whether in beauty or fashion?  What should our readers keep in mind when trying to make more intentional purchases? 

KG: High quality is not only in the material selection and origin but also in the design features and intentionality of the product. Buy less on trends and more on what you like and works for your life. 

RMS: What goes into designing a bag that stands the test of time, both functionally and aesthetically? 

KG: We know the modern woman is multi-faceted and leads a busy life with competing priorities. Our bags support her unfailingly and look beautiful. 

RMS: How do you see this limited-edition makeup and skincare bag fitting into the everyday lives of your customers?  

KG: She doesn't have a lot of time, especially if she is a mom. She wants to look and feel put together in maybe five minutes or less with high-functioning, clean products. She can use these products and the case daily for moments of joy.

RMS: What does your go-to minimal beauty routine look like?  

KG: Depending on what my day holds, I use only a few products to keep my skin looking radiant.

RMS: Are there any RMS Beauty products you’ve recently fallen in love with? 

KG: SuperNatural Radiance Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen.

RMS: You are both mothers; how do you think that has changed the way you approach your designs, if at all? What do you keep in mind? 

KG: I always keep in mind that moms often have to carry a lot, but that doesn’t mean they should have to sacrifice beauty for function. My goal is to create pieces that not only make their lives easier but also make them feel put together and confident.

RMS: Mother’s Day is coming up, what makes this gift great for moms? 

KG: Something that speaks to who she is as a person and will remind her of her elegance and strength.

Shop the newly launched collection here.