08:04 Bag Snob Tina- Hello everyone!
08:04 Bag Snob Tina- Good morning Nancy!
08:04 Bag Snob Tina- How are you and where are you?
08:04 Nancy Gonzalez- Good morning!
08:05 Nancy Gonzalez- I'm in Colombia right now, in my studio putting the finishing touches on the F/W 2009 collection.
08:05 Bag Snob Tina- How lovely.
08:06 Bag Snob Tina- Is that where you stay most of the time?
08:06 Nancy Gonzalez- yes, between Colombia, New York, and Paris-
08:06 Bag Snob Tina- I am so thrilled you agreed to do the Virtual Personal Appearance 08:07 Bag Snob Tina- This is a historical event, it's never been done before!
08:07 Margo June- ah loo :)
08:07 Nancy Gonzalez- Thank you, it's my pleasure.
08:07 Bag Snob Tina- Tell me about the new collection, any sneak preview info for our readers?
08:07 Margo June- hello nancy, how are you?..
08:08 Serenalovesbags- Hi Nancy, nice to see you on bagsnob. Love your bags!
08:08 Nancy Gonzalez- Clean lines, permanent shapes, timeless period, the colors of the land - brown, evergreen, aubergine, purple, orange, saffron.
08:09 Bag Snob Tina- What inspired this collection?
08:09 Lauren- Love you Nancy, your fall collection sounds wonderful!
08:10 Nancy Gonzalez- Inspiration actually came from everywhere - from the souks of Marrakesh and the colors of the spices there to the rich colors of Rome and the Vatican. And as always, the exuberant vegetation of my native Colombia.
08:11 Bag Snob Tina- Let's talk for a minute about the Spring collection, it's very colorful! We notice you do not make a lot of black bags. Is there a reason for that?
08:13 guest 9809- Hi Nancy! How do you choose your materials and techniques?
08:14 Serenalovesbags- I noticed that too, the lack of black and brown in you collections. It is always exuberant and colorful which I love
08:14 Lauren- Crocodile skin looks so much prettier on color rather than black
08:15 Nancy Gonzalez- I'm constantly challenging myself to push the limit on what can be done with precious skins. I enjoy using natural precious materials, and I see my design process as a collaboration with nature.
08:15 Bag Snob Tina- We notice you've been using Ostrich skins lately, too. Any other exotics we should expect?
08:16 burnanee- omg this is so kewl! i m talking to nancy gonzalez ONLINE! luv ur bags btw :D
08:17 Nancy Gonzalez- We specialize in all precious skins. For me right now, I'm very focused on the finishes of the skins - such as pearlescent finishes, sueded finishes, patent finishes. I'm also loving python.
08:17 guest437497- What's your favorite piece that you've ever designed?
08:18 Nancy Gonzalez- All my bags are like my children - I could never choose a favorite. I carry a large tote and a couple bright-colored clutches on all my trips.
08:18 guest823780- i saw the gold bag that carrie underwood was wearing!!! she was on fashion police the bag was the perfect accessory for her dress! CONGRATS Nancy.
08:19 Bag Snob Tina- Speaking of children, is Santiago here? Your son is one of my favorite people by the way!
08:19 Nancy Gonzalez- Thank you! I'm very flattered that she chose us once again. She's been very supportive.
08:19 Serenalovesbags- I think it's really cool that you are on a blog. Very forward thinking 08:20 Nancy Gonzalez- My son is in New York, preparing for market. He's one of my favorite people too - and he absolutely adores you!
08:21 Bag Snob Tina- Will you ever do shoes, Nancy?
08:21 Nancy Gonzalez- I'm happy to be here. I was always afraid of computers and never imagined what the people behind the blogs looked like, until I met Tina Craig at a Neiman Marcus event in Dallas.
08:21 Haleh- With all due respect to other bloggers out there, Tina is not your typical fashion blogger! She is the most fabulous one out there!
08:21 Nancy Gonzalez- I'm working on it. I love shoes. I travel in 105mm Manolo Blahnik crocodile stilettos.
08:22 guest437497- Your bags are so classic, yet the designs are always new and creative...how do you combine that creativity with classic style?
08:22 Bag Snob Tina- I love it! I need crocodile shoes to go with my croc bags!
08:23 guest823780- i love the belts too!
08:23 Nancy Gonzalez- What I try to do is combine creativity and function. Aesthetically, all my designs need to be permanent. I see it as one big Nancy Gonzalez collection that started 10 years ago, that is permanent but will never be complete.
08:23 Serenalovesbags- I like how you just focus on bags though
08:23 Bag Snob Tina- How did you start? Can you give us a brief history?
08:24 Nancy Gonzalez- Belts are a great accessory, and a colorful belt is a very affordable way to completely make an outfit.
08:26 Nancy Gonzalez -The president of Bergdorf loved the bags and placed a small order, which we hand delivered to the store. The bags sold out in a day, and the rest is history. 08:27 Bag Snob Tina- But how did you make the first bag? What was the inspiration to be a handbag designer?
08:27 Serenalovesbags- How long ago was that?
08:29 Baglover- Hi Nancy, since Tina only asked about your son... How is your daughter Cristina these days and what is she up to ?
08:30 Nancy Gonzalez- I started in Colombia in 1988. I started making belts, and all my belt clients asked for bags to go with them.
08:30 Nancy Gonzalez- Cristina is great - she is in Los Angeles and had a baby, Antonio, in June. So I'm a new grandmother.
08:30 guest823780- what are the characteristics and traits of colombian culture that you translate in your creations?
08:33 Nancy Gonzalez- This tradition of giving value to the hands fascinates me and inspires me to produce objects that are handmade, that have textures that tickle the hands, that are handheld...
08:33 Bag Snob Tina- We love that there is no hardware on the bags. Was that intentional? 08:35 guest437497- Do you carry other brands of handbags? and if so, which ones?
08:36 Baglover- Wow, that's fantastic, congratulations to you and Cristina! Do you get a lot of negative feedback/press for using animal skins for your handbags?
08:36 Nancy Gonzalez- I only wear Nancy Gonzalez bags!
08:37 Bag Snob Tina- Tell me what bag you're using today
08:38 Serenalovesbags- Nancy, how many bags do you own?
08:39 Nancy Gonzalez- Today I'm wearing a black Nancy Gonzalez Leaf Tote.
08:40 Nancy Gonzalez- I don't own many bags, as I just borrow them from the company press closet!
08:40 guest437497- what type of woman wears your bags...do you have a typical client? 08:40 Bag Snob Tina- When you get dressed, do you start with the bag first, and then choose the outfit? Or does it start with the outfit?
08:41 Nancy Gonzalez- My client is every woman that wants a universal, unique, true, exciting, joyful, sincere experience.
08:41 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, where do you go on vacation?
08:42 Nancy Gonzalez- If the accessory is strong enough, as I believe my bags are, you should be able to put the outfit on first and then choose the bag, and it will go with anything. 08:42 guest437497- Your aim is to convey joy, how do engrave a smile in a bag in a way a woman could feel it?
08:43 Nancy Gonzalez- My favorite place in the world is Cartagena, Colombia, and Marrakesh, Morocco. Both are magical, colorful, and with incredible light.
08:43 guest 9809- how many hours/people does it take to make one bag?
08:44 Serenalovesbags- How many bags do you produce a year?
08:44 Nancy Gonzalez- I believe in inspiring style - the style comes from the freedom to exercise your own style. I believe a product should amplify who you are instead of altering it. 08:46 guest437497- It seems that you have bee incredibly succesful-- what does it/ did it take to succeed?
08:46 Nancy Gonzalez- We produce 35,000 bags a year.
08:47 Bag Snob Tina- You are launching your website today! We are all so excited. Will you be selling bags on the site? www.nancygonzalez.com
08:47 Nancy Gonzalez- Success is the ability to maximize the good and minimize the bad. 08:47 Serenalovesbags- Wow! 35,000 bags a year?
08:47 Serenalovesbags- How long does it take to make one bag?
08:49 guest543772- hi 08:49 calisally- Hi Are you hiring? seriouslyy??
08:49 calisally- /:)
08:50 Nancy Gonzalez- The average is 20 hours but it all depends of the level of expertise. For a clutch, the average training time for one of our artisans can be 6 months, and for really complex bags, such as the handwoven ones, it can be 6 years.
08:51 Nancy Gonzalez- We are launching our website today and won't be selling bags on the site. It's purely information and inspirational, and I felt it was important to share the values of my company with my clients.
08:51 Bag Snob Tina- Amazing, 6 years for a handwoven bag!
08:51 Haleh- Nancy, I'd like to ask you my earlier question again please! What advice would you give to a budding female entrepreneur?
08:52 guest437497- Nancy gonzalez was awarded brand of the year, what is the reputation of your brand that led to the title? 08:52 Nancy Gonzalez- I would say to stay true to the core values of both your company and yourself.
08:52 Haleh- PS. I loved what you just said about maximizing the good and minimizing the bad -- truly words to live by!
08:53 Haleh- Thanks, Nancy!
08:53 Bag Snob Tina- You know, that is what Kelly and I follow. We never waver in our dedication to bags, to provide good content, and most importantly-- to entertain our readers and our selves!
08:54 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, how many styles do you do each season?
08:54 Lauren- believing in what you are doing and enjoying every minute of it (or at least almost every minute) :D
08:55 guest19852- can we request a certain bag in a different color? how? how long?
08:55 Nancy Gonzalez- We do more than 150 new styles per season.
08:55 Bag Snob Tina- And for the Spring season, what should we buy if we can only buy one bag at Saks
08:56 Haleh- The website looks amazing, Nancy. Congratulations!
08:57 Serenalovesbags- Yes! thsi is why I love the snob sites. you ladies are so fun and entertaining. and hello! i'm chatting with NANCY GONZALEZ! i am saving up for my first NG bag!
08:57 Lauren- oh yes, what is the one bag for Spring that we shouldn't live without :)
08:58 Nancy Gonzalez- For spring, the Saks exclusive tangerine hobo with a brown handle - that I will actually be wearing myself this spring.
08:58 guest823780- what is the relationship you have with celebrities?
08:59 Nancy Gonzalez- We have been lucky enough to have many celebrities as our loyal clients. Among my favorites are Salma Hayek, Oprah Winfrey, Eva Longoria, and of course Carrie Underwood!
08:59 Bag Snob Tina- Ohhhhhhhhh, how fab. I just got my hot pink tote-- I'm wearing it to Fashion Week!
08:59 guest437497- Are there are specific designers you admire and are inspired by?
08:59 guest823780- are you going to be in NY for fashion week?
09:00 Bag Snob Tina- A reader asked about custom colors, I believe you may request the order from Saks or Neiman Marcus.
09:00 Baglover- Hello, any reason why Net-A-Porter does not carry your collection? It would give me the opportunity to buy your bags online since I don't live in the US!
09:00 Nancy Gonzalez- Rei Kawakubo, Yohji Yamamoto. I admire their constant ability to move forward without losing their focus and essence.
09:00 Bag Snob Tina- Yes, where can our international readers buy your bags?
09:00 Nancy Gonzalez- Unfortunately, I will not be in New York for Fashion Week. I go to New York tonight and will only be there for 36 hours.
09:03 Nancy Gonzalez- International readers can buy my bags in Harrods in London, Corso Como in Milan, Theresa in Munich, Harvey Nichols in Dubai, Lane Crawford in Hong Kong, Montaigne Market in Paris. We're opening a monobrand boutique inside the Galleria in Seoul. 09:03 Bag Snob Tina- Seoul! A Nancy Gonzalez boutique? Is this the first? Why Korea? 09:04 guest2198151 hiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
09:04 Haleh- We are so lucky, the Harvey Nichols here in Dubai stocks the very best Nancy bags! :)
09:05 angle- hi
09:05 Nancy Gonzalez- We keep our distribution very exclusive, and starting this spring, you will be able to find my bags on Couture Lab. They're also available at NeimanMarcus.com, BergdorfGoodman.com, Harrods.com, Saks.com, and MyTheresa.com online.
09:05 Haleh- When the sale first started, women were clamoring over your bags and fighting to get them!
09:05 angle any girl chat with me
09:05 Nancy Gonzalez- Harvey Nichols Dubai is actually one of my favorite clients. I was there in November and I believe their handbag department to be one of the best in the world, if not the best.
09:06 Nancy Gonzalez- The Nancy Gonzalez boutique in Seoul is the first Nancy Gonzalez monobrand boutique.
09:06 Nancy Gonzalez- Please don't tell me about the sales, I'll start crying!
09:06 Nancy Gonzalez- :)
09:06 Bag Snob Tina- Haha, I believe women in Dubai pay whatever it takes to get their NG bags! 09:07 L.xo- Hi Nancy lovely to meet you. I shop in Harrods and the collection of larger bags is no where near as good as Bergdorf or Nieman...do they just ask for evening rather than large clutches and totes?
09:07 guest437497 what is the deisgner's responsibility in these economic times?
09:07 Fara- When are you bringing your bags here in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia?
09:07 Haleh- Nancy, you're right, HN here truly is one of the best in the world! Tina, you would be surprised to know that the economy has affected even us! Exotic bags are 60% off and still on the shelves (not many of Nancy's are left though!)
09:08 Nancy Gonzalez- To interpret the times with imagination, artistry, and daring, and to be sensitive to price points.
09:08 sharon_hui87 angle
09:08 Serenalovesbags- wow- so many international readers.
09:08 angle any girl chat with meeeeeee
09:08 Bag Snob Tina- I'd just like to apologize for the spam bots and the people leaving weird comments. Our tech team is removing them as fast as possible but some of them are fast. 09:09 Nancy Gonzalez- At Harrods, usually the larger bags sell out first. It's nice to hear your input as I will be meeting with them soon and will tell them your advice.
09:10 shanghai_dude- Nan, is it me or its true that your bags are more expensive in Asia than in US? is Joyce your distributor in HK and China?
09:10 Nancy Gonzalez- How is the weather in Dubai? The beach is always so beautiful there! 09:10 Haleh- Nancy, I would have loved to meet you when you came to Dubai! You are such an inspiration!
09:11 Nancy Gonzalez - Joyce is a very special client to me. Joyce Ma was my first client in Asia and one of my dearest friends.
09:11 Haleh- The weather is lovely right now, it has been raining for a few days but back on track. We are slowly heading into our dreadful summer however! Do you visit often, Nancy? Do you like it here?
09:11 Bag Snob Tina- We should organize a Bag Snob Nancy Gonzalez PA in Duba and Hong Kongi!
09:11 Nancy Gonzalez- I see Joyce as my flagship in Asia.
09:11 shanghai_dude- lol
09:11 Bag Snob Tina- Let Nancy pick out our bags and drink champagne ;)
09:12 shanghai_dude- sounds gooda Tina
09:12 Nancy Gonzalez- I love Dubai and will make sure next time I am there to have an event at Harvey Nichols to which you are all invited. Please contact the store so they will have your information! Tina, you should come too.
09:12 Haleh- Yes Tina, sounds good! You should head over here too!
09:13 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, do you find any difference between your Asian or International clients as opposed to the American clients? Do they buy smaller bags outside of the US? 09:14 Bag Snob Tina- Yes, please keep all messages here directed to Nancy and make sure it is topical to our conversation or you will be removed. Thanks!
09:16 guest 9809 Nancy, how would you define your aesthetic?
09:16 guest329973 when do you think you will viist HK?
09:16 guest329973 and how did you get that amazing shade of blue?
09:16 Nancy Gonzalez- Purity, balance, and composition are the aesthetic pillars of the Nancy Gonzalez brand. Dignity, optimism, and joy are the essence of it. My aesthetic is brought together by affection more so than taste or culture.
09:17 Haleh- Nancy, do you incorporate as much color in your personal dressing as you do in your bags?
09:17 L.xo -Tina help where are all the spammers coming from!!
09:17 guest823780 What are your main considerations when designing bags?
09:18 Nancy Gonzalez- All my colors are naturally dyed - therefore, we retain the brightness. I usually only wear navy blue and black. My only color is through the bags!
09:18 Bag Snob Tina- They are spam robots
09:18 Bag Snob Tina- I am so sorry Nancy!
09:18 Nancy Gonzalez-My main consideration when designing new handbags is providing new options without invalidating prior pieces.
09:18 shanghai_dud-e gee...who'd know hose who love pricy bags would spam too...:D
09:19 Haleh- I also wear practically only black -- but love adding a pop of color through your beautiful bags!
09:19 Nancy Gonzalez- Haleh, it seems like you and I have a lot in common!
09:19 Bag Snob Tina- Today I am wearing a hot pink dress with your dark blue crocodile bag. I am a very colorful person-- which is why I think we got along so well :)
09:19 guest437497 every season most people look for the "it" bag, do you think bags have an important position in the fashion industry?
09:20 Haleh- Nancy, that is such a wonderful compliment! I would only aspire to be like you! 09:20 Haleh- I have a feeling that if I knew Tina in real life, we'd be BFFs as well :)
09:20 Nancy Gonzalez- I think accessories are the MOST important - they are what closes the deal, they complete an outfit. Bags need to address a functional need but more importantly, they need to provide a joyful, exciting, unique experience.
09:21 guest19852 i know you can re-dye? other bags (like chanel) after, can you redye exotics too to make it look good again?
09:21 Serenalovesbags- i never view Nancy bags as "it", they're so elegant and pretty, not fleeting
09:21 Fara- Hi Nancy, what does your private collection of designer bags consists of? Tons of Chanels, etc.? :)
09:22 shanghai_dude- ditto, Tara:D
09:22 Nancy Gonzalez- You can reglaze exotics, but you need to be very careful as the skin might lose its softness.
09:22 L.xo- not sure if my question got missed because of all the spam or is it something that can't really be answered? thank you.
09:22 Haleh- Tina, where is Kelly? Is she not joining us today?
09:23 Nancy Gonzalez- My private collection of designer bags are actually vintage. I have more than 6,000 designer bags stored in warehouses.
09:23 Bag Snob Tina- L.xo please repeat your question for Nancy
09:23 Bag Snob Tina- OMG! You are my idol. 6,000 bags!?!? May I come over and play with them?
09:23 Hale-h 6,000! That is impressive!
09:23 Fara- Wow. Extravagant ;) Would love to take a peek at it ;)
09:24 Lauren- Nancy you are a bag snob!
09:24 Bag Snob Tina- Kelly is on PST time and she has to take her kids to school. I took mine earlier
09:24 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, perhaps we should do a pictorial of your bag collection one day! 09:24 guest823780 what is the most special bag your recall designing?
09:25 Haleh- I love that you and Kelly are so devoted to your children as well as your careers! Nancy, how did you balance working life with being a mother? You seem to have raised wonderful children!
09:26 Nancy Gonzalez- A collaboration with my friend, artist Michele Oka Doner. We unveiled it during Art Basel in 2007. It is currently in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York! It had hardware inspired by driftwood and sponges from the ocean.
09:26 shopaholic- what inspires your designs?
09:26 L.xo- Tina that Pictorial sounds great, We chould have a bagsnob wall of fame...Nancy is top of it with 6,000...is this a collection handed down to her or collected by her own bare hands?
09:27 L.xo- actually make that a bagometer and Nancy rings in at the top!
09:27 Fara- Nancy do tell us your favourite bag from your vintage collection *curious*
09:27 Nancy Gonzalez- I don't believe one can give what one doesn't have, so I think the fact that I was able to be happy and feel fulfilled allowed me to provide emotional stability for my children.
09:28 shobi_dhobi hey
09:28 shobi_dhobi heeelo
09:28 Bag Snob Tina- I agree, happy parents produce happy children.
09:28 Nancy Gonzalez- I have vintage dealers all over the world that know what I'm looking for, and they're constantly buying on my behalf. The bags are usually in pristine condition and one day will be given as a gift to one of the New York museums.
09:29 Haleh- That is profound. Thank you!
09:29 Fara- Omg, please donate one vintage bag of yours to me! He he :)
09:29 shopaholic what design is your classic
09:30 L.xo Wow how fabulous...why have you decided to donate them to a museum...will you not leave some to your children...does your collection have a particular designer that you are fond of?
09:30 Lauren- Am I sensing Hermes?
09:31 guest823780 today what does nancy gonzalez dream of?
09:31 L.xo- Well I didn't want to ask if that was in Nancy's collection, but with 6000 i'm sure one features?
09:31 Nancy Gonzalez- I would not want to separate my collection, and I wouldn't want to share it - therefore, I think its logical home would be in a museum. In my vintage collection, there's a strong presence of all designer brands you can imagine and even those you can't! ;) 09:31 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, when you design a new collection what is the first step of the process? Do you sit with Santiago and brainstorm or do you like to be alone?
09:32 L.xo- ooh the those you can't sound interesting!;P
09:33 love man jjj
09:34 Nancy Gonzalez- Today I'm focused on the fall winter collection that I have to present in New York this week! And I'm seeing the Hiroshi Sugimoto show at the Gagosian Gallery in New York.
09:34 shanghai_dude -Nancy, in history of fashion many successful women take pride in terming themselves as 'biz women', take Coco chanel n DVF for instance. do u think you are one desigenr with a lot of biz sense?
09:35 Nancy Gonzalez- I usually start with colors as the first step of my design process, and I'm usually alone.
09:36 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, you mentioned that all women who work for you are provided with daycare. I think that is amazing! How many employees do you currently have?
09:36 Haleh- And how does the inspiration for that particular color come about?
09:38 guest437497 it seems you have many fans and loyal customes. how does that make you feel as a designer?
09:38 L.xo- What can be found in your handbag?
09:38 Nancy Gonzalez- I'm flattered, blessed, humbled, and very grateful.
09:38 Haleh- Nancy, would you ever consider doing a cheaper line?
09:40 Nancy Gonzalez- In my bag, I have a sketching notebook, colored pencils, a picture of my grandson, a cosmetic case with an M Lab moisturizer...
09:40 L.xo- ooh good question Haleh! Would you actually consider collaberating with H&M in the UK like many designers do...and I think is it Target in the US?
09:41 Nancy Gonzalez- And yes, we do provide daycare for all our employees' children under 5 years old. I am grateful that we have been able to do this.
09:41 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, I thought you were Santi's sister when I met you. Do you have any beauty tips for staying so young and exuberant?
09:41 L.xo- No wallet.....actually does your line offer wallets?
09:42 Serenalovesbags- Gosh I don't know if I would want a NG target bag. Her exotic skins are so amazing and making them for Target would mean pvc? No thanks. I'd rather save my money and buy the real thing!
09:43 Nancy Gonzalez- It's very difficult to create a lower-priced line when we're selling something REAL, like skins, at a fair price. Thank you Serena, that is exactly how I feel! 09:43 Serenalovesbags- The status of having Nancy Gonzalez bag would be lost I think if she were to do a cheap line... her brand is very luxurious and not like the young and trendy designers who do Target
09:43 Haleh- That's precisely why I ask, Serena! I am curious to know how she would go about it if she accepted.
09:44 Nancy Gonzalez- We do small leather goods such as wallets and the collection is getting bigger. You should see a larger assortment for the fall.
09:44 Haleh- I am so happy to know that you would never consider it, Nancy!
09:44 guest2080335 hi
09:44 sexyluke18 hi
09:44 L.xo I'm fromk the UK so not sure what target is...I just know that Anya Hindmarch did a collaberation.
09:44 sexyluke18 there
09:45 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, we have 15 minutes left in our live chat VPA
09:45 Bag Snob Tina- Anything you'd like to share with our readers?
09:45 Nancy Gonzalez- M Lab anti-aging serums and lots of laughter are my beauty secrets...
09:45 sexyluke18 what up
09:45 Serenalovesbags For me, my mother and now my grnadmother (we bought her a NG bag for Christmas) Nancy Gonzalez stands for the ultimate in luxury!
09:45 sexyluke18 girls
09:45 guest823780 what is luxury for nancy gonzalez
09:46 Nancy Gonzalez- Luxury is Fantasy without limitations!
09:47 guest437497 most high fashion brands design many great bags each season, what do you do to make your designs stand out?
09:47 lampard- hellow to all of u
09:47 L.xo- Wow this has gone quick...Nancy seemed to miss my question of whether she thinks certain sized women should not wear larger totes or oversized clutches?
09:47 Nancy Gonzalez- My designs are anchored in the fundamental values of quality, craftsmanship, value and design... the trick is to achieve all of the above attributes at the same time.
09:48 Nancy Gonzalez- Lxo, I'm not so tall myself and I only wear the largest bags. So no, I don't think size matters.
09:48 thewho19- any girls out there?
09:48 thewho19 just pm me asap
09:49 love man rrrrr
09:49 Lauren- thank you so much nancy for taking the time to be with us. Hope you have a safe flight, and I can't wait to see more of your Spring and your Fall collection
09:49 guest437497 which of your designs have been the best seller this season and which signature model will your brand sell every season?
09:49 Fara- Nancy do you have your new collection pictures up on your website?
09:49 guest431016 Hi Nancy, when and how was your ''Big Break''?? What got you in the spotlight?
09:49 Fara- I'd love to learn more about your bags
09:49 Nancy Gonzalez- As we don't produce more than 40 bags per style per color, it's difficult to pinpoint best-sellers. Large, soft, colorful totes and oversized clutches have been very popular.
09:50 Haleh- Thank you so much Nancy for being such a pioneering designer and for agreeing to do this! As a big fan, I really appreciate that you spend the time to chat with us. And thank you for all your amazing responses to my questions! Have a safe flight!
09:50 Bag Snob Tina- How do you make the crocodile skins so soft?
09:50 Nancy Gonzalez- My website is linked to BergdorfGoodman.com and NeimanMarcus.com, which have all the new collections on sale.
09:50 Fara- Trying to appreciate bags other than the Bottegas, Chanels, Balenciagas :)
09:50 Nancy Gonzalez- Haleh, I'll see you in Dubai!
09:50 lampard hellow nancy
09:51 Fara- Thanks Nancy for sharing your time with us here
09:51 Nancy Gonzalez- For the crocodile skins, we start from the very beginning and raise them to be that soft.
09:51 Fara- You should come down to Malaysia one day :)
09:51 Bag Snob Tina- What do you mean? Do you feed them different food?
09:51 Haleh- Daily massages? Haha :)
09:52 Nancy Gonzalez- Exactly! They are also naturally dyed, which makes them very subtle in their touch.
09:52 Serenalovesbags- Thank you Dear Nancy! From San Francisco.. hope to meet you one day in person. You are lovely and kind to indulge us on our favorite blog!
09:52 guest437497- clutches and exotic leather nags have been bery popular in recent years...do you desihgn bags by followinh fashion trends?
09:52 Nancy Gonzalez- I will be in San Francisco on March 11, doing a personal appearance at Saks. Hope to see you there!
09:53 Nancy Gonzalez- On BagSnob, Tina always lists the dates of times of my PAs - I have a lot coming up and look forward to meeting all of you!
09:53 Bag Snob Tina- Everyone, we will be making a transcript of this chat (without the spams) and posting it up later so you can read everything Nancy said.
09:53 Nancy Gonzalez- Following fashion trends is not a priority of mine, as I feel a well-designed bag should have permanent appeal. Trends are of the moment...
09:53 Serenalovesbags- how great!
09:53 guest431016- That's great Tina!
09:53 Haleh- A big thank you to Tina for doing this as well!
09:53 Serenalovesbags- i will bring my mom and granma! they will be thrilled
09:54 Haleh- I hope to meet you the next time you are in Dubai, Nancy!
09:54 guest431016- I would love to hear more about how Nancy started her line!
09:54 Fara- I must agree with you on that Nancy
09:54 Bag Snob Tina- I have to credit Nancy Gonzalez for agreeing to be the first Bag Designer to ever make a Virtual personal appearance on a Blog. We've made history today my friends :)
09:54 Nancy Gonzalez- I would like to thank everybody for coming to the chat and would like to leave everyone with one last thought - a quote from the Dalai Lama that says being happy is not only an act of discipline, but a responsibility.
09:54 Nancy Gonzalez- Looking forward to our next chat!
09:54 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, will you come chat again?
09:54 Nancy Gonzalez- Absolutely!
09:55 Bag Snob Tina- Next time we will know how to deal with the spam robots!
09:55 Lauren- Thank you Tina and Nancy!
09:55 Bag Snob Tina- Thank you so much! I just want to tell everyone that Nancy Gonzalez Spring 2009 bags are at Saks Fifth Avenue!
09:55 Haleh- Thank you, Nancy and Tina!
09:55 Fara- Thank you Tina, you're awesome :) Big HI to Kelly from me
09:55 Bag Snob Tina- Go check them out-- I got 2 already and plan to get a few more. Must shop smart in this economy and Nancy's bags are so well priced!
09:55 guest891511- Thank you Nancy! 09:55 Bag Snob Tina- Kelly will be reading this later. 09:56 Bag Snob Tina- Remember to check back to read the entire transcript later! And don't forget to log onto www.nancygonzalez.com
09:56 Serenalovesbags- Bye Nancy!!!
09:56 Serenalovesbags- I feel like i made a new friend today!
09:57 Serenalovesbags- A famous and fabulous friend :)
08:04 Bag Snob Tina- Good morning Nancy!
08:04 Bag Snob Tina- How are you and where are you?
08:04 Nancy Gonzalez- Good morning!
08:05 Nancy Gonzalez- I'm in Colombia right now, in my studio putting the finishing touches on the F/W 2009 collection.
08:05 Bag Snob Tina- How lovely.
08:06 Bag Snob Tina- Is that where you stay most of the time?
08:06 Nancy Gonzalez- yes, between Colombia, New York, and Paris-
08:06 Bag Snob Tina- I am so thrilled you agreed to do the Virtual Personal Appearance 08:07 Bag Snob Tina- This is a historical event, it's never been done before!
08:07 Margo June- ah loo :)
08:07 Nancy Gonzalez- Thank you, it's my pleasure.
08:07 Bag Snob Tina- Tell me about the new collection, any sneak preview info for our readers?
08:07 Margo June- hello nancy, how are you?..
08:08 Serenalovesbags- Hi Nancy, nice to see you on bagsnob. Love your bags!
08:08 Nancy Gonzalez- Clean lines, permanent shapes, timeless period, the colors of the land - brown, evergreen, aubergine, purple, orange, saffron.
08:09 Bag Snob Tina- What inspired this collection?
08:09 Lauren- Love you Nancy, your fall collection sounds wonderful!
08:10 Nancy Gonzalez- Inspiration actually came from everywhere - from the souks of Marrakesh and the colors of the spices there to the rich colors of Rome and the Vatican. And as always, the exuberant vegetation of my native Colombia.
08:11 Bag Snob Tina- Let's talk for a minute about the Spring collection, it's very colorful! We notice you do not make a lot of black bags. Is there a reason for that?
08:13 guest 9809- Hi Nancy! How do you choose your materials and techniques?
08:14 Serenalovesbags- I noticed that too, the lack of black and brown in you collections. It is always exuberant and colorful which I love
08:14 Lauren- Crocodile skin looks so much prettier on color rather than black
08:15 Nancy Gonzalez- I'm constantly challenging myself to push the limit on what can be done with precious skins. I enjoy using natural precious materials, and I see my design process as a collaboration with nature.
08:15 Bag Snob Tina- We notice you've been using Ostrich skins lately, too. Any other exotics we should expect?
08:16 burnanee- omg this is so kewl! i m talking to nancy gonzalez ONLINE! luv ur bags btw :D
08:17 Nancy Gonzalez- We specialize in all precious skins. For me right now, I'm very focused on the finishes of the skins - such as pearlescent finishes, sueded finishes, patent finishes. I'm also loving python.
08:17 guest437497- What's your favorite piece that you've ever designed?
08:18 Nancy Gonzalez- All my bags are like my children - I could never choose a favorite. I carry a large tote and a couple bright-colored clutches on all my trips.
08:18 guest823780- i saw the gold bag that carrie underwood was wearing!!! she was on fashion police the bag was the perfect accessory for her dress! CONGRATS Nancy.
08:19 Bag Snob Tina- Speaking of children, is Santiago here? Your son is one of my favorite people by the way!
08:19 Nancy Gonzalez- Thank you! I'm very flattered that she chose us once again. She's been very supportive.
08:19 Serenalovesbags- I think it's really cool that you are on a blog. Very forward thinking 08:20 Nancy Gonzalez- My son is in New York, preparing for market. He's one of my favorite people too - and he absolutely adores you!
08:21 Bag Snob Tina- Will you ever do shoes, Nancy?
08:21 Nancy Gonzalez- I'm happy to be here. I was always afraid of computers and never imagined what the people behind the blogs looked like, until I met Tina Craig at a Neiman Marcus event in Dallas.
08:21 Haleh- With all due respect to other bloggers out there, Tina is not your typical fashion blogger! She is the most fabulous one out there!
08:21 Nancy Gonzalez- I'm working on it. I love shoes. I travel in 105mm Manolo Blahnik crocodile stilettos.
08:22 guest437497- Your bags are so classic, yet the designs are always new and creative...how do you combine that creativity with classic style?
08:22 Bag Snob Tina- I love it! I need crocodile shoes to go with my croc bags!
08:23 guest823780- i love the belts too!
08:23 Nancy Gonzalez- What I try to do is combine creativity and function. Aesthetically, all my designs need to be permanent. I see it as one big Nancy Gonzalez collection that started 10 years ago, that is permanent but will never be complete.
08:23 Serenalovesbags- I like how you just focus on bags though
08:23 Bag Snob Tina- How did you start? Can you give us a brief history?
08:24 Nancy Gonzalez- Belts are a great accessory, and a colorful belt is a very affordable way to completely make an outfit.
08:26 Nancy Gonzalez -The president of Bergdorf loved the bags and placed a small order, which we hand delivered to the store. The bags sold out in a day, and the rest is history. 08:27 Bag Snob Tina- But how did you make the first bag? What was the inspiration to be a handbag designer?
08:27 Serenalovesbags- How long ago was that?
08:29 Baglover- Hi Nancy, since Tina only asked about your son... How is your daughter Cristina these days and what is she up to ?
08:30 Nancy Gonzalez- I started in Colombia in 1988. I started making belts, and all my belt clients asked for bags to go with them.
08:30 Nancy Gonzalez- Cristina is great - she is in Los Angeles and had a baby, Antonio, in June. So I'm a new grandmother.
08:30 guest823780- what are the characteristics and traits of colombian culture that you translate in your creations?
08:33 Nancy Gonzalez- This tradition of giving value to the hands fascinates me and inspires me to produce objects that are handmade, that have textures that tickle the hands, that are handheld...
08:33 Bag Snob Tina- We love that there is no hardware on the bags. Was that intentional? 08:35 guest437497- Do you carry other brands of handbags? and if so, which ones?
08:36 Baglover- Wow, that's fantastic, congratulations to you and Cristina! Do you get a lot of negative feedback/press for using animal skins for your handbags?
08:36 Nancy Gonzalez- I only wear Nancy Gonzalez bags!
08:37 Bag Snob Tina- Tell me what bag you're using today
08:38 Serenalovesbags- Nancy, how many bags do you own?
08:39 Nancy Gonzalez- Today I'm wearing a black Nancy Gonzalez Leaf Tote.
08:40 Nancy Gonzalez- I don't own many bags, as I just borrow them from the company press closet!
08:40 guest437497- what type of woman wears your bags...do you have a typical client? 08:40 Bag Snob Tina- When you get dressed, do you start with the bag first, and then choose the outfit? Or does it start with the outfit?
08:41 Nancy Gonzalez- My client is every woman that wants a universal, unique, true, exciting, joyful, sincere experience.
08:41 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, where do you go on vacation?
08:42 Nancy Gonzalez- If the accessory is strong enough, as I believe my bags are, you should be able to put the outfit on first and then choose the bag, and it will go with anything. 08:42 guest437497- Your aim is to convey joy, how do engrave a smile in a bag in a way a woman could feel it?
08:43 Nancy Gonzalez- My favorite place in the world is Cartagena, Colombia, and Marrakesh, Morocco. Both are magical, colorful, and with incredible light.
08:43 guest 9809- how many hours/people does it take to make one bag?
08:44 Serenalovesbags- How many bags do you produce a year?
08:44 Nancy Gonzalez- I believe in inspiring style - the style comes from the freedom to exercise your own style. I believe a product should amplify who you are instead of altering it. 08:46 guest437497- It seems that you have bee incredibly succesful-- what does it/ did it take to succeed?
08:46 Nancy Gonzalez- We produce 35,000 bags a year.
08:47 Bag Snob Tina- You are launching your website today! We are all so excited. Will you be selling bags on the site? www.nancygonzalez.com
08:47 Nancy Gonzalez- Success is the ability to maximize the good and minimize the bad. 08:47 Serenalovesbags- Wow! 35,000 bags a year?
08:47 Serenalovesbags- How long does it take to make one bag?
08:49 guest543772- hi 08:49 calisally- Hi Are you hiring? seriouslyy??
08:49 calisally- /:)
08:50 Nancy Gonzalez- The average is 20 hours but it all depends of the level of expertise. For a clutch, the average training time for one of our artisans can be 6 months, and for really complex bags, such as the handwoven ones, it can be 6 years.
08:51 Nancy Gonzalez- We are launching our website today and won't be selling bags on the site. It's purely information and inspirational, and I felt it was important to share the values of my company with my clients.
08:51 Bag Snob Tina- Amazing, 6 years for a handwoven bag!
08:51 Haleh- Nancy, I'd like to ask you my earlier question again please! What advice would you give to a budding female entrepreneur?
08:52 guest437497- Nancy gonzalez was awarded brand of the year, what is the reputation of your brand that led to the title? 08:52 Nancy Gonzalez- I would say to stay true to the core values of both your company and yourself.
08:52 Haleh- PS. I loved what you just said about maximizing the good and minimizing the bad -- truly words to live by!
08:53 Haleh- Thanks, Nancy!
08:53 Bag Snob Tina- You know, that is what Kelly and I follow. We never waver in our dedication to bags, to provide good content, and most importantly-- to entertain our readers and our selves!
08:54 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, how many styles do you do each season?
08:54 Lauren- believing in what you are doing and enjoying every minute of it (or at least almost every minute) :D
08:55 guest19852- can we request a certain bag in a different color? how? how long?
08:55 Nancy Gonzalez- We do more than 150 new styles per season.
08:55 Bag Snob Tina- And for the Spring season, what should we buy if we can only buy one bag at Saks
08:56 Haleh- The website looks amazing, Nancy. Congratulations!
08:57 Serenalovesbags- Yes! thsi is why I love the snob sites. you ladies are so fun and entertaining. and hello! i'm chatting with NANCY GONZALEZ! i am saving up for my first NG bag!
08:57 Lauren- oh yes, what is the one bag for Spring that we shouldn't live without :)
08:58 Nancy Gonzalez- For spring, the Saks exclusive tangerine hobo with a brown handle - that I will actually be wearing myself this spring.
08:58 guest823780- what is the relationship you have with celebrities?
08:59 Nancy Gonzalez- We have been lucky enough to have many celebrities as our loyal clients. Among my favorites are Salma Hayek, Oprah Winfrey, Eva Longoria, and of course Carrie Underwood!
08:59 Bag Snob Tina- Ohhhhhhhhh, how fab. I just got my hot pink tote-- I'm wearing it to Fashion Week!
08:59 guest437497- Are there are specific designers you admire and are inspired by?
08:59 guest823780- are you going to be in NY for fashion week?
09:00 Bag Snob Tina- A reader asked about custom colors, I believe you may request the order from Saks or Neiman Marcus.
09:00 Baglover- Hello, any reason why Net-A-Porter does not carry your collection? It would give me the opportunity to buy your bags online since I don't live in the US!
09:00 Nancy Gonzalez- Rei Kawakubo, Yohji Yamamoto. I admire their constant ability to move forward without losing their focus and essence.
09:00 Bag Snob Tina- Yes, where can our international readers buy your bags?
09:00 Nancy Gonzalez- Unfortunately, I will not be in New York for Fashion Week. I go to New York tonight and will only be there for 36 hours.
09:03 Nancy Gonzalez- International readers can buy my bags in Harrods in London, Corso Como in Milan, Theresa in Munich, Harvey Nichols in Dubai, Lane Crawford in Hong Kong, Montaigne Market in Paris. We're opening a monobrand boutique inside the Galleria in Seoul. 09:03 Bag Snob Tina- Seoul! A Nancy Gonzalez boutique? Is this the first? Why Korea? 09:04 guest2198151 hiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
09:04 Haleh- We are so lucky, the Harvey Nichols here in Dubai stocks the very best Nancy bags! :)
09:05 angle- hi
09:05 Nancy Gonzalez- We keep our distribution very exclusive, and starting this spring, you will be able to find my bags on Couture Lab. They're also available at NeimanMarcus.com, BergdorfGoodman.com, Harrods.com, Saks.com, and MyTheresa.com online.
09:05 Haleh- When the sale first started, women were clamoring over your bags and fighting to get them!
09:05 angle any girl chat with me
09:05 Nancy Gonzalez- Harvey Nichols Dubai is actually one of my favorite clients. I was there in November and I believe their handbag department to be one of the best in the world, if not the best.
09:06 Nancy Gonzalez- The Nancy Gonzalez boutique in Seoul is the first Nancy Gonzalez monobrand boutique.
09:06 Nancy Gonzalez- Please don't tell me about the sales, I'll start crying!
09:06 Nancy Gonzalez- :)
09:06 Bag Snob Tina- Haha, I believe women in Dubai pay whatever it takes to get their NG bags! 09:07 L.xo- Hi Nancy lovely to meet you. I shop in Harrods and the collection of larger bags is no where near as good as Bergdorf or Nieman...do they just ask for evening rather than large clutches and totes?
09:07 guest437497 what is the deisgner's responsibility in these economic times?
09:07 Fara- When are you bringing your bags here in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia?
09:07 Haleh- Nancy, you're right, HN here truly is one of the best in the world! Tina, you would be surprised to know that the economy has affected even us! Exotic bags are 60% off and still on the shelves (not many of Nancy's are left though!)
09:08 Nancy Gonzalez- To interpret the times with imagination, artistry, and daring, and to be sensitive to price points.
09:08 sharon_hui87 angle
09:08 Serenalovesbags- wow- so many international readers.
09:08 angle any girl chat with meeeeeee
09:08 Bag Snob Tina- I'd just like to apologize for the spam bots and the people leaving weird comments. Our tech team is removing them as fast as possible but some of them are fast. 09:09 Nancy Gonzalez- At Harrods, usually the larger bags sell out first. It's nice to hear your input as I will be meeting with them soon and will tell them your advice.
09:10 shanghai_dude- Nan, is it me or its true that your bags are more expensive in Asia than in US? is Joyce your distributor in HK and China?
09:10 Nancy Gonzalez- How is the weather in Dubai? The beach is always so beautiful there! 09:10 Haleh- Nancy, I would have loved to meet you when you came to Dubai! You are such an inspiration!
09:11 Nancy Gonzalez - Joyce is a very special client to me. Joyce Ma was my first client in Asia and one of my dearest friends.
09:11 Haleh- The weather is lovely right now, it has been raining for a few days but back on track. We are slowly heading into our dreadful summer however! Do you visit often, Nancy? Do you like it here?
09:11 Bag Snob Tina- We should organize a Bag Snob Nancy Gonzalez PA in Duba and Hong Kongi!
09:11 Nancy Gonzalez- I see Joyce as my flagship in Asia.
09:11 shanghai_dude- lol
09:11 Bag Snob Tina- Let Nancy pick out our bags and drink champagne ;)
09:12 shanghai_dude- sounds gooda Tina
09:12 Nancy Gonzalez- I love Dubai and will make sure next time I am there to have an event at Harvey Nichols to which you are all invited. Please contact the store so they will have your information! Tina, you should come too.
09:12 Haleh- Yes Tina, sounds good! You should head over here too!
09:13 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, do you find any difference between your Asian or International clients as opposed to the American clients? Do they buy smaller bags outside of the US? 09:14 Bag Snob Tina- Yes, please keep all messages here directed to Nancy and make sure it is topical to our conversation or you will be removed. Thanks!
09:16 guest 9809 Nancy, how would you define your aesthetic?
09:16 guest329973 when do you think you will viist HK?
09:16 guest329973 and how did you get that amazing shade of blue?
09:16 Nancy Gonzalez- Purity, balance, and composition are the aesthetic pillars of the Nancy Gonzalez brand. Dignity, optimism, and joy are the essence of it. My aesthetic is brought together by affection more so than taste or culture.
09:17 Haleh- Nancy, do you incorporate as much color in your personal dressing as you do in your bags?
09:17 L.xo -Tina help where are all the spammers coming from!!
09:17 guest823780 What are your main considerations when designing bags?
09:18 Nancy Gonzalez- All my colors are naturally dyed - therefore, we retain the brightness. I usually only wear navy blue and black. My only color is through the bags!
09:18 Bag Snob Tina- They are spam robots
09:18 Bag Snob Tina- I am so sorry Nancy!
09:18 Nancy Gonzalez-My main consideration when designing new handbags is providing new options without invalidating prior pieces.
09:18 shanghai_dud-e gee...who'd know hose who love pricy bags would spam too...:D
09:19 Haleh- I also wear practically only black -- but love adding a pop of color through your beautiful bags!
09:19 Nancy Gonzalez- Haleh, it seems like you and I have a lot in common!
09:19 Bag Snob Tina- Today I am wearing a hot pink dress with your dark blue crocodile bag. I am a very colorful person-- which is why I think we got along so well :)
09:19 guest437497 every season most people look for the "it" bag, do you think bags have an important position in the fashion industry?
09:20 Haleh- Nancy, that is such a wonderful compliment! I would only aspire to be like you! 09:20 Haleh- I have a feeling that if I knew Tina in real life, we'd be BFFs as well :)
09:20 Nancy Gonzalez- I think accessories are the MOST important - they are what closes the deal, they complete an outfit. Bags need to address a functional need but more importantly, they need to provide a joyful, exciting, unique experience.
09:21 guest19852 i know you can re-dye? other bags (like chanel) after, can you redye exotics too to make it look good again?
09:21 Serenalovesbags- i never view Nancy bags as "it", they're so elegant and pretty, not fleeting
09:21 Fara- Hi Nancy, what does your private collection of designer bags consists of? Tons of Chanels, etc.? :)
09:22 shanghai_dude- ditto, Tara:D
09:22 Nancy Gonzalez- You can reglaze exotics, but you need to be very careful as the skin might lose its softness.
09:22 L.xo- not sure if my question got missed because of all the spam or is it something that can't really be answered? thank you.
09:22 Haleh- Tina, where is Kelly? Is she not joining us today?
09:23 Nancy Gonzalez- My private collection of designer bags are actually vintage. I have more than 6,000 designer bags stored in warehouses.
09:23 Bag Snob Tina- L.xo please repeat your question for Nancy
09:23 Bag Snob Tina- OMG! You are my idol. 6,000 bags!?!? May I come over and play with them?
09:23 Hale-h 6,000! That is impressive!
09:23 Fara- Wow. Extravagant ;) Would love to take a peek at it ;)
09:24 Lauren- Nancy you are a bag snob!
09:24 Bag Snob Tina- Kelly is on PST time and she has to take her kids to school. I took mine earlier
09:24 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, perhaps we should do a pictorial of your bag collection one day! 09:24 guest823780 what is the most special bag your recall designing?
09:25 Haleh- I love that you and Kelly are so devoted to your children as well as your careers! Nancy, how did you balance working life with being a mother? You seem to have raised wonderful children!
09:26 Nancy Gonzalez- A collaboration with my friend, artist Michele Oka Doner. We unveiled it during Art Basel in 2007. It is currently in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York! It had hardware inspired by driftwood and sponges from the ocean.
09:26 shopaholic- what inspires your designs?
09:26 L.xo- Tina that Pictorial sounds great, We chould have a bagsnob wall of fame...Nancy is top of it with 6,000...is this a collection handed down to her or collected by her own bare hands?
09:27 L.xo- actually make that a bagometer and Nancy rings in at the top!
09:27 Fara- Nancy do tell us your favourite bag from your vintage collection *curious*
09:27 Nancy Gonzalez- I don't believe one can give what one doesn't have, so I think the fact that I was able to be happy and feel fulfilled allowed me to provide emotional stability for my children.
09:28 shobi_dhobi hey
09:28 shobi_dhobi heeelo
09:28 Bag Snob Tina- I agree, happy parents produce happy children.
09:28 Nancy Gonzalez- I have vintage dealers all over the world that know what I'm looking for, and they're constantly buying on my behalf. The bags are usually in pristine condition and one day will be given as a gift to one of the New York museums.
09:29 Haleh- That is profound. Thank you!
09:29 Fara- Omg, please donate one vintage bag of yours to me! He he :)
09:29 shopaholic what design is your classic
09:30 L.xo Wow how fabulous...why have you decided to donate them to a museum...will you not leave some to your children...does your collection have a particular designer that you are fond of?
09:30 Lauren- Am I sensing Hermes?
09:31 guest823780 today what does nancy gonzalez dream of?
09:31 L.xo- Well I didn't want to ask if that was in Nancy's collection, but with 6000 i'm sure one features?
09:31 Nancy Gonzalez- I would not want to separate my collection, and I wouldn't want to share it - therefore, I think its logical home would be in a museum. In my vintage collection, there's a strong presence of all designer brands you can imagine and even those you can't! ;) 09:31 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, when you design a new collection what is the first step of the process? Do you sit with Santiago and brainstorm or do you like to be alone?
09:32 L.xo- ooh the those you can't sound interesting!;P
09:33 love man jjj
09:34 Nancy Gonzalez- Today I'm focused on the fall winter collection that I have to present in New York this week! And I'm seeing the Hiroshi Sugimoto show at the Gagosian Gallery in New York.
09:34 shanghai_dude -Nancy, in history of fashion many successful women take pride in terming themselves as 'biz women', take Coco chanel n DVF for instance. do u think you are one desigenr with a lot of biz sense?
09:35 Nancy Gonzalez- I usually start with colors as the first step of my design process, and I'm usually alone.
09:36 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, you mentioned that all women who work for you are provided with daycare. I think that is amazing! How many employees do you currently have?
09:36 Haleh- And how does the inspiration for that particular color come about?
09:38 guest437497 it seems you have many fans and loyal customes. how does that make you feel as a designer?
09:38 L.xo- What can be found in your handbag?
09:38 Nancy Gonzalez- I'm flattered, blessed, humbled, and very grateful.
09:38 Haleh- Nancy, would you ever consider doing a cheaper line?
09:40 Nancy Gonzalez- In my bag, I have a sketching notebook, colored pencils, a picture of my grandson, a cosmetic case with an M Lab moisturizer...
09:40 L.xo- ooh good question Haleh! Would you actually consider collaberating with H&M in the UK like many designers do...and I think is it Target in the US?
09:41 Nancy Gonzalez- And yes, we do provide daycare for all our employees' children under 5 years old. I am grateful that we have been able to do this.
09:41 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, I thought you were Santi's sister when I met you. Do you have any beauty tips for staying so young and exuberant?
09:41 L.xo- No wallet.....actually does your line offer wallets?
09:42 Serenalovesbags- Gosh I don't know if I would want a NG target bag. Her exotic skins are so amazing and making them for Target would mean pvc? No thanks. I'd rather save my money and buy the real thing!
09:43 Nancy Gonzalez- It's very difficult to create a lower-priced line when we're selling something REAL, like skins, at a fair price. Thank you Serena, that is exactly how I feel! 09:43 Serenalovesbags- The status of having Nancy Gonzalez bag would be lost I think if she were to do a cheap line... her brand is very luxurious and not like the young and trendy designers who do Target
09:43 Haleh- That's precisely why I ask, Serena! I am curious to know how she would go about it if she accepted.
09:44 Nancy Gonzalez- We do small leather goods such as wallets and the collection is getting bigger. You should see a larger assortment for the fall.
09:44 Haleh- I am so happy to know that you would never consider it, Nancy!
09:44 guest2080335 hi
09:44 sexyluke18 hi
09:44 L.xo I'm fromk the UK so not sure what target is...I just know that Anya Hindmarch did a collaberation.
09:44 sexyluke18 there
09:45 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, we have 15 minutes left in our live chat VPA
09:45 Bag Snob Tina- Anything you'd like to share with our readers?
09:45 Nancy Gonzalez- M Lab anti-aging serums and lots of laughter are my beauty secrets...
09:45 sexyluke18 what up
09:45 Serenalovesbags For me, my mother and now my grnadmother (we bought her a NG bag for Christmas) Nancy Gonzalez stands for the ultimate in luxury!
09:45 sexyluke18 girls
09:45 guest823780 what is luxury for nancy gonzalez
09:46 Nancy Gonzalez- Luxury is Fantasy without limitations!
09:47 guest437497 most high fashion brands design many great bags each season, what do you do to make your designs stand out?
09:47 lampard- hellow to all of u
09:47 L.xo- Wow this has gone quick...Nancy seemed to miss my question of whether she thinks certain sized women should not wear larger totes or oversized clutches?
09:47 Nancy Gonzalez- My designs are anchored in the fundamental values of quality, craftsmanship, value and design... the trick is to achieve all of the above attributes at the same time.
09:48 Nancy Gonzalez- Lxo, I'm not so tall myself and I only wear the largest bags. So no, I don't think size matters.
09:48 thewho19- any girls out there?
09:48 thewho19 just pm me asap
09:49 love man rrrrr
09:49 Lauren- thank you so much nancy for taking the time to be with us. Hope you have a safe flight, and I can't wait to see more of your Spring and your Fall collection
09:49 guest437497 which of your designs have been the best seller this season and which signature model will your brand sell every season?
09:49 Fara- Nancy do you have your new collection pictures up on your website?
09:49 guest431016 Hi Nancy, when and how was your ''Big Break''?? What got you in the spotlight?
09:49 Fara- I'd love to learn more about your bags
09:49 Nancy Gonzalez- As we don't produce more than 40 bags per style per color, it's difficult to pinpoint best-sellers. Large, soft, colorful totes and oversized clutches have been very popular.
09:50 Haleh- Thank you so much Nancy for being such a pioneering designer and for agreeing to do this! As a big fan, I really appreciate that you spend the time to chat with us. And thank you for all your amazing responses to my questions! Have a safe flight!
09:50 Bag Snob Tina- How do you make the crocodile skins so soft?
09:50 Nancy Gonzalez- My website is linked to BergdorfGoodman.com and NeimanMarcus.com, which have all the new collections on sale.
09:50 Fara- Trying to appreciate bags other than the Bottegas, Chanels, Balenciagas :)
09:50 Nancy Gonzalez- Haleh, I'll see you in Dubai!
09:50 lampard hellow nancy
09:51 Fara- Thanks Nancy for sharing your time with us here
09:51 Nancy Gonzalez- For the crocodile skins, we start from the very beginning and raise them to be that soft.
09:51 Fara- You should come down to Malaysia one day :)
09:51 Bag Snob Tina- What do you mean? Do you feed them different food?
09:51 Haleh- Daily massages? Haha :)
09:52 Nancy Gonzalez- Exactly! They are also naturally dyed, which makes them very subtle in their touch.
09:52 Serenalovesbags- Thank you Dear Nancy! From San Francisco.. hope to meet you one day in person. You are lovely and kind to indulge us on our favorite blog!
09:52 guest437497- clutches and exotic leather nags have been bery popular in recent years...do you desihgn bags by followinh fashion trends?
09:52 Nancy Gonzalez- I will be in San Francisco on March 11, doing a personal appearance at Saks. Hope to see you there!
09:53 Nancy Gonzalez- On BagSnob, Tina always lists the dates of times of my PAs - I have a lot coming up and look forward to meeting all of you!
09:53 Bag Snob Tina- Everyone, we will be making a transcript of this chat (without the spams) and posting it up later so you can read everything Nancy said.
09:53 Nancy Gonzalez- Following fashion trends is not a priority of mine, as I feel a well-designed bag should have permanent appeal. Trends are of the moment...
09:53 Serenalovesbags- how great!
09:53 guest431016- That's great Tina!
09:53 Haleh- A big thank you to Tina for doing this as well!
09:53 Serenalovesbags- i will bring my mom and granma! they will be thrilled
09:54 Haleh- I hope to meet you the next time you are in Dubai, Nancy!
09:54 guest431016- I would love to hear more about how Nancy started her line!
09:54 Fara- I must agree with you on that Nancy
09:54 Bag Snob Tina- I have to credit Nancy Gonzalez for agreeing to be the first Bag Designer to ever make a Virtual personal appearance on a Blog. We've made history today my friends :)
09:54 Nancy Gonzalez- I would like to thank everybody for coming to the chat and would like to leave everyone with one last thought - a quote from the Dalai Lama that says being happy is not only an act of discipline, but a responsibility.
09:54 Nancy Gonzalez- Looking forward to our next chat!
09:54 Bag Snob Tina- Nancy, will you come chat again?
09:54 Nancy Gonzalez- Absolutely!
09:55 Bag Snob Tina- Next time we will know how to deal with the spam robots!
09:55 Lauren- Thank you Tina and Nancy!
09:55 Bag Snob Tina- Thank you so much! I just want to tell everyone that Nancy Gonzalez Spring 2009 bags are at Saks Fifth Avenue!
09:55 Haleh- Thank you, Nancy and Tina!
09:55 Fara- Thank you Tina, you're awesome :) Big HI to Kelly from me
09:55 Bag Snob Tina- Go check them out-- I got 2 already and plan to get a few more. Must shop smart in this economy and Nancy's bags are so well priced!
09:55 guest891511- Thank you Nancy! 09:55 Bag Snob Tina- Kelly will be reading this later. 09:56 Bag Snob Tina- Remember to check back to read the entire transcript later! And don't forget to log onto www.nancygonzalez.com
09:56 Serenalovesbags- Bye Nancy!!!
09:56 Serenalovesbags- I feel like i made a new friend today!
09:57 Serenalovesbags- A famous and fabulous friend :)
I am fortunate to own three of your bags and I use them all of the time. I really appreciate the excellent quality at a reasonable price point. Can you tell us a little more about some of your programs for women in Columbia?