When I was a student, I apprenticed at design houses such as Fendi, Hermes, Prada, YSL, and Armani. There, I became transfixed by the design and manufacturing process, and gave me the inspiration I needed to create my own line. Danielle Nicole is a line of luxury handbags that are designed with a concentration on functionality. Many of our bags have adjustable straps with outside, easy access pockets. I prefer to use nappa lambskin. It is soft, light weight, and conforms to the body. A unique feature of the collection is the lining. All Danielle Nicole bags are lined with washable ultra suede in anticipation of make- up spills. The stain will come out with a little soap and water.

Danielle Nicole was established in 2006. In early 2007, the cosmetic buyer at Bergdorf Goodman asked me to design an exclusive line of luxury cosmetic bags. Soon, the handbag buyers were quick to notice the success of the cosmetic bag line and the line expanded into handbags. Orders soon followed from Saks Fifth Avenue , Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Holt Renfrew, CUSP and many other specialty stores.My line is fun and functional. I like to take the average day into account when I design. Many of my bags have outside pockets for keys, cell phones, and metro pass. I like to see bags that can be worn in various ways. The straps on a variety of styles are adjustable. That way it is up to the consumer if she wants to wear it as a messenger or over the shoulder.

Well my biggest disaster story actually happened not during the design process, but during the buying process. I had a meeting with Cusp, and 15 minutes before I had to meet the buyers down in Texas, I got locked out of my car that had all of the bag samples and my clothes for the meeting. Thankfully I was able to find help and mend the problem in time, but I certainly don't ever want to have that feeling of panic again! My greatest achievement in this process is the reason why it is all worth it. There have been occasions where I have seen strangers walking down the street carrying my bags. Everyone is their own toughest critic and to see that consumers are responding to my designs has been the most satisfying feeling that has made ever struggle worth it.