WHO: Nancy Gonzalez, designer of the renowned handbag collection, will make a personal appearance at Saks Fifth Avenue New York.

WHEN: Thursday, October 1, 2009 from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

If you are in NYC make sure to stop by Saks to check out the Fall 2009 handbag collection from Nancy Gonzalez. There will also be three styles designed exclusively for Saks Fifth Avenue New York.

This may be one of my favorite Nancy Gonzalez bags of all time, which says a lot, given my penchant for exotics. This particular shade of blue-undertoned grey is fantastic for highlighting scale and texture differences on exotic skins and bringing out their natural patterns and variations, which is exactly what a well-designed exotic bag should do. Python is the main event here, making up the front and back of the bag, while the sturdier crocodile skin forms the bag’s gussets. I’d be interested to see what the bag would look like if the material usage was flipped, but either way, it’s still beyond gorgeous. The neat rows of studs that run on either side of the bag’s front panel are the perfect finishing touch and something slightly out of character for the designer – I hope we see more of it in the future. Buy through Saks for $3100.

What bothers me, though, is that the beauty of the crocodile skin is somewhat lost in the strips of leather and suede. My feeling, as I have explained before, is always that a bag made out of an exotic leather should use that leather’s natural texture to its greatest advantage. In tiny strips, it’s basically impossibly to do that. Stamped croc would have probably been a more cost-effective and appropriate material to use here, even though I’m not generally a proponent of stamping anything on high-end handbags. The price is somewhat reasonable for a bag that does use a great deal of exotic leather, though, so when that’s combined with the bag’s sleek beauty, I can’t hate it too much. Buy through Saks for $2750.

There are two things that I hope to do before my handbag career is over: own an Hermes bag and own something in crocodile or alligator. Those two dreams are both far off in the distance, but that doesn’t mean my wandering eyes can’t check out the merchandise. And lately, I can’t get the image of the Nancy Gonzalez Large Crocodile Tote out of my head.

I first covered this bag in a different color for Bag That Style, and this is another one of those situations where seeing it on a person makes all the difference. The pink looks like a wonderful sugary confection, but I’m more interested in the super-dark, shiny black option. What is it with me and giant black bags lately? I’m not sure, but if this is wrong, I don’t want to be right. The finish of the crocodile gives the bag a younger, edgier slant than most similar exotics, and the price could be a lot worse – Nancy Gonzalez charges for croc what a lot of other brands charge for python. Buy through Saks for $3350.

The Nancy Gonzalez Green Croc Tote accompanied us down South to Key West two weeks ago. Braided, spacious, exotic luxury, all new for Fall 2009. This bag was one of our favorites from an assortment sent to us to review from Nancy Gonzalez. The braided handles really added a nice touch along with the rouched crocodile body. The inside of the bag is lined with light green suede and features many usable pockets. Another perk is the weight of the bag, which will not weigh you down and is light and almost airy compared to many other bags I own. This bag will be $3300. Nancy Gonzalez bags are available via Saks.com.

Not only did this Nancy Gonzalez bag look out over the water for ships with us but also took a seat at a table with a sculpture. Very stoic and chic I tell you.

We are slow at deciding on our new category name for our exclusive photography section for Purse Blog, but we will be announcing our favorites this week from our giveaway! Until then, we still have more photos to share with you all that we know you will enjoy.

WHAT: Come Meet Designer Nancy Gonzalez and Bergdorf Goodman Fashion director Linda Fargo

WHERE: Bergdorf Goodman

WHEN: April 3rd and 4th. 2-4 pm

WHO: Nancy Gonzalez, synonymous for creating luxurious exotic-skin handbags introduces its first named handbag: “The Linda bag”. This bag is available exclusively at specialty store Bergdorf Goodman, the bag is named after Linda Fargo, the retailer’s Senior Vice President, Fashion Office & Store Presentation. The celebration of “The Linda Bag” will be at Bergdorf Goodman on April 3rd and 4th with the chance to meet Linda Fargo and Nancy Gonzalez on the 3rd from 2-4 pm. Clients will be given the rare opportunity to custom make a bag, choosing from over 30 colors and finishes, while receiving design help from both Linda Fargo and Nancy Gonzalez themselves. The Linda bag comes in three sizes and ranges in price from $2,950 to $5,000.

The skin is the inherent design of any exotic bag, and it seems counterproductive to take a piece of leather that is naturally beautiful and that has it’s own intrinsic design elements and cut it up, no matter how beautiful the cutting is. As a result, I wouldn’t recommend this as anyone’s first croc bag, but it may make a nice special occasion bag for warm weather, particularly with Easter approaching. Also, it’s lined, so the cut croc won’t expose all of your loot inside your bag. Buy through Saks for $3700.

Is Valentine’s Day celebrated in Colombia, if so how is it similar/different from the US? Valentine’s Day in Colombia is on September 16 and it is actually called the day of Love and Friendship (Dia de Amor y Amistad).

What would be the most romantic Valentine’s Day, from start to finish, for you? Most romantic would definitely be in Marrakesh at the Amanjena Hotel, spending the day getting lost through the streets of the souk and ending with dinner at Le Yacout restaurant.

What is the best Valentine’s Day gift you have received? Best Valentine’s gift I ever received is definitely a Buccellati diamond cuff.

Are you a romantic? I am a romantic…

Your favorite romantic meal? Favorite romantic meal depends with who?

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day this year: I like to be surprised for Valentines day plans.

The best Nancy Gonzalez bag for a Valentine’s Day gift, why?: Best Nancy Gonzalez bag for a Valentine’s day gift is a small, soft, pouch clutch in colorful crocodile skin. It’s like candy but much better

If you are looking to splurge for a classic tote, go into the realm of exotics. One of our favorite exotic handbag designers is Nancy Gonzalez. The Nancy Gonzalez Extra Large Crocodile Tote is plenty large for daily use and the black crocodile skin is a timeless option. The leaf tassle accent offers a special touch, which can make the bag stand out among other totes. There are double top handles and a hidden magnetic closure. This handbag should fit comfortably over your shoulder and not be too heavy as far as the bag itself goes. The inside has compartments to aid in practicality and usability along with lush suede lining. Dimensions are 15″W X 13″H X 4½”D. This would be an investment piece if you were looking to add one tote to your collection that could be used day in, day out and for many years to come. Buy through Saks for $3,380.

WHAT: Nancy Gonzalez Trunk Show and Personal Appearance by designer, Nancy Gonzalez
WHERE: Neiman Marcus, DC
WHEN: December 5, 2008 from 11: am – 4:00 pm

Another Trunk Show and Personal Appearance by the famed Nancy Gonzalez is happening today. Again we will not be able to attend (can she please please come to Florida!!!?!). If you are in the DC area, be sure to stop by and check it out and meet the fabulous Nancy Gonzalez.

Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Box Clutch

And here is a designer that needs no introduction. You all know her for her exotic skins and vibrant colors. This clutch was raved about before on Purse Blog and now the price is marked down $300. Berry, fuchsia, green, and lime green are available on the Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Box Clutch. This clutch is truly meant to be handheld, as the dimensions are merely 6¾”W X 3½”H X 2″D. But this is a quintessential piece. It is perfect for dressing up, it is a staple for your wardrobe, and now the price is even better! Buy through Saks for $450.

WHAT: Nancy Gonzalez Trunk Show and Personal Appearance by designer, Nancy Gonzalez

WHERE: Saks 5th Avenue, Bala Cynwyd , PA

WHEN: November 14th, 2008 from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm

Nancy Gonzalez bags have become highly coveted accessories, focusing on exotic materials and popping color palettes. Nancy’s bags have graced the arms of handbag lovers worldwide who turn to her for a beautifully made bag, with a luxurious material, that sets an outfit apart from the rest. Her focus on color comes from her Colombian roots, as not only the culture affects her designs but so does the climate. “The 365 days a year of brilliant blue sky, the incredible plumage of birds, a green like nothing I have seen anywhere else – that is the beauty of Colombia,” says Gonzalez. The collection is designed and produced in Colombia and is available at retailers including Harrod’s of London, Aizel of Moscow, Isetan of Japan, Joyce of Hong Kong and Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue.

Unfortunately, this PA is not near us, so we can not attend. But those of you in PA should make sure to check it out, it is an opportunity you do not want to miss!

Nancy Gonzalez Flat Clutch

I’ve seen a lot of clutches lately with this new-fangled (old-fangled? Seems like it might be a vintage throwback) cut-out handle, and I’m not sure I support the idea. It looks cute, naturally, but I’m an under-the-armpit clutch carrier, not an in-my-hand one, and clutches with the cut-outs might present a problem for me. They tend to be a bit taller, and I’m not sure that my armpit can handle that. Take the Nancy Gonzalez Flat Clutch, for example. Surely, it’s beautiful. The color is, somehow, both silver and gold, which makes it both unexpected and neutral (and how often are neutrals unexpected?). It’s also quite roomy, and I could probably fit my keys in it, something that a lot of clutches don’t accomplish. It’s also crocodile so, you know, points for that. Logistically, however, I think that this clutch carries its load too low to work for us armpit enthusiasts, although those of you out there that prefer the hand-held method surely could not find a better day-to-night bag than this beauty. Buy through Saks for $2500.

Nancy Gonzalez Medium Crocodile Hobo

Somehow the massive Hurricane Ike trekked his way up to Ohio and put out power and took down trees right in time for Vlad and my’s arrival. Kid you not. So while Texas felt the wrath of Ike, so did Ohio. Now that we have internet back up and I can be in touch with the outside world, I have to tell you that the weather here right now is beyond amazing!!! High 60’s low 70’s during the day and high 50’s at night. Crystal blue skies, clean fresh air, ahh just amazing. Soon the leaves will turn and it will be a wonderland here. And while not everyone in Ohio is incredibly chic (it’s true, but they are all overly nice!), I have seen quite a few people pulling out their greys, purples, and greens waiting for fall.

A must have color for Fall is a rich hue of green, an emerald shade. And I have a new stunning option for you to choose from, the kind of stunning that is hard to pass up. The Nancy Gonzalez Medium Crocodile Hobo has a pleated pocket surprise on an otherwise well-know and much loved shape. But it is the color and skin that has my total attention. Nancy Gonzalez continues to tantalize our senses, with sight and touch, in this beautiful color and material. There is not much else to say, other than this bag had me in love at first sight. It reigns in a feeling of Fall which is in the air right now in Ohio. There is a front and back magnetic pocket, an inside zip and cell phone pocket, and chamoise lining. Buy through Saks for $4,100.

Bottega Veneta vs Nancy Gonzalez

The battle of the designer look-a-like bags continues! I have always been a self-pronounced lover of Bottega Veneta bags. Yes, of course I am. Soft and buttery leather, intricate weaving, timeless classic designs. And when it comes to exotics, Nancy Gonzalez handbags top my list. And why wouldn’t they? Nancy Gonzalez uses bright bold colors on rich exotic skins. Both designers are known for different looks and both designers have highly sought after handbags.

A long time ago I professed my undying love of the simple fold-over clutch that so many adore from Bottega Veneta. Many times referred to as a cosmetic case, the Bottega Veneta Pyramid Clutch combines a simplistic approach of a small pouch with a fold over top and divine woven leather. There is a longer version ($400 more and twice as long), which is not considered the cosmetic case, but either way this one doubles over as a clutch. Either way, I have always loved this clutch. Buy through Saks for $580 or larger version through Net A Porter for $980.

We all know the above mentioned Bottega Veneta clutch. But did you know that Nancy Gonzalez created a clutch very similar? Almost eerily similar, just done in exotic skin (of course it is in exotic, it wouldn’t be Nancy Gonzalez if it were not!). The Nancy Gonzalez Large Crocodile Clutch is also a fold-over style clutch designed in silver crocodile. Her skins are not rigid, rather soft and user friendly. This clutch features an inside zip pocket, inside cell phone pocket, and leather lining. Buy through Saks for $2800.

If you’ve never seen and held a Nancy Gonzalez bag in person, I have a homework assignment for you this weekend: go to the mall and spend some time with Ms. Gonzalez’s bags. They’re exceptionally pricey, no doubt about it, but hear me out on this one, mmkay?

Almost every bag she puts her name on is made of crocodile, at least partially justifying the steep price. There are no filler materials, and the exceptional skins take center stage with very limited visible hardware and few outward accouterment. It’s almost as if she’s saying, “Hey you guys, look how much croc I’m giving you for the money!” If there’s any sort of rhyme or reason to my bag selections, it’s probably that I want a gorgeous piece of leather, a great shape and not a whole lot of extras, and Ms. Gonzalez seems to be right with me.

Take, for example, the grey Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Hobo (I disagree that this bag is a true hobo – it has two straps, and as a connoisseur of hobos, I think that the word implies one strap!): there are no outside pockets and no hardware to be found. The straps are actually attached inside the top opening, giving just enough visual interest to handbag aficionados that are used to seeing outwardly affixed handles.

It’s also nice to see a leather that is almost always used in super-structured, rigid bags be gathered into something slightly more soft and casual – it’s an exotic that can easily be worn with jeans.

Plus, it’s grey. And we all know how Amanda feels about grey, now don’t we? Buy through Saks for $3,150.

* Amanda must have been reading my mind, because this is a Nancy Gonzalez bag that I previously coveted and is now sold out. Check back in to see if it is re-stocked or for other Nancy Gonzalez goodies!*

Household names like Prada, Gucci, Hermes, and Marc Jacobs resonate as designer handbag brands, but the exotic market of handbag designers is well-known and the pontiff is Nancy Gonzalez. Her name is known by the handbag world. Her exotic handbags speak for themselves. And while she loves many exotics, her forte is crocodile in a wide array of eye-catching colors and silhouettes. I have always loved crocodile skins but tend to want them in smaller pieces. I am just going to be honest, it is because that is more affordable (relatively speaking). A large exotic skin bag is not always fitting in my handbag budget, so I tend to stick with small exotics and large leathers. But after seeing the price of the Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Hobo, it seems that I can have the best of both worlds, a spacious hobo designed with crocodile that is also on the affordable side. This spacious bag, 20″W X 11″H X 7″D, features pleated and ruched detailing on the outside. The inside features a zip and cell phone pocket along with suede lining. I know Nancy Gonzalez bags, I know I love them. What I also know is that the price point on this bag is right. While many simple leather bags from the household designer names are now starting around $2,000, this crocodile hobo comes in at $3,150. The price is at my exotic sweet-spot, so I have no qualms with it. Buy through Saks.

WHAT: Nancy Gonzalez Trunk Show and Personal Appearance by designer, Nancy Gonzalez

WHERE: Neiman Marcus, Atlanta

WHEN: April 10th, 2008 from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm

Nancy Gonzalez bags have become highly coveted accessories, focusing on exotic materials and popping color palettes. Nancy’s bags have graced the arms of handbag lovers worldwide who turn to her for a beautifully made bag, with a luxurious material, that sets an outfit apart from the rest. Her focus on color comes from her Colombian roots, as not only the culture affects her designs but so does the climate. “The 365 days a year of brilliant blue sky, the incredible plumage of birds, a green like nothing I have seen anywhere else – that is the beauty of Colombia,” says Gonzalez. The collection is designed and produced in Colombia and is available at retailers including Harrod’s of London, Aizel of Moscow, Isetan of Japan, Joyce of Hong Kong and Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue.

If you are in the Atlanta area, be sure not to miss an opportunity like this. This designer has an amazing outreach and story to tell. We will be bringing you more news and images of Nancy Gonzalez bags this week. Stay tuned!

The Colombian based designer, Nancy Gonzalez, has taken the accessory world by storm. Her use of bold colors and rich exotics has left us yearning for more. While Nancy Gonzalez offers the necessary neutrals, it is her adventurous colors that win her audiences over. Just in time for spring, the Nancy Gonzalez Shiny Croc Tote is available in the most eye-catching violet Caiman fuscus crocodile. While this tote also comes in black and blush, it is the violet that stands out and grabs your attention, reeling me in and making me fall hard. Nancy Gonzalez is audacious in her color choices and it pays off time and time again. This tote is perfect for the bright colors spring craves and a great everyday bag, measuring 8 1/4″H x 10 1/2″W x 4 1/2″D. There is a flap top that opens to lush suede lining along with a zip and cell phone pocket. This bag is bold, beautiful, and brag worthy.
$2,950 via Bergdorf Goodman.

The deep hues of blues, reds, and purples that appear almost black but in the right light give a hint of color are drop dead gorgeous. There is no need to be decked out in black at all times. Rather, for an event that most will wear black to, pop a hue of color that makes everyone do a double take. The hottest nail polish right now is the Chanel Blue Satin Nail Polish, which is such a deep blue hue that only with a touch of light does it appear blue rather than black. Going along the same trend, the Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Clutch shows off a deep shade of purple on shiny crocodile leather. The clutch is structured and has a front flap which leads to suede lining. While this Nancy Gonzalez bag is also available in red and black, the purple is by far the best color option. Dimensions are perfect for a night out, measuring 4 1/2″H x 8″W x 2″D. I find this bag to be elegant, stunning, and timeless. Buy through Saks for $1,050.