I have been creating this Nina Perrera Handbag collection for about one year. Each handbag is unique, one-of-a-kind and limited edition designs. They are meticulously hand-stitched here in the United States, using only the finest quality leathers, fabrics and trim. Many handbags incorporate vintage purse frames from the early 1900's which are refurbished and brought back to life as a 21st Century designs!

I adore the mix of old and new and suspect that my appreciation for fine vintage accessories came from my maternal grandmother's influence. She never left her Manhattan apartment without wearing white gloves, a leather handbag, and beautiful jewels. I also loved helping her create window displays for her Madison Avenue jewelry boutique, which she owned and operated during the 60's and 70's. My love for psychology and human behavior (I am a practicing, Licensed Clinical Social Worker), continuously draws me to objects of unknown origin, allowing me a glimpse into the life and personality of its imagined original owner. I believe you can tell a lot about a woman by the handbag she carries. But, you can also tell a lot about a handbag by the woman who carries "it". The Nina Perrera handbag collection is designed for an elegant, confident woman who enjoys luxuries but values her own unique style as well.

I began creating my handbags, working with a wonderful seamstress named Eleni. Eleni, who grew up in Greece, was taught by her mother to sew. There's nothing she can't do with a needle and thread! Most of my creations have emerged through trial and error and are created using a commercial sewing machine and hand-stitching. I create my handbags two days per week and spend most evening hours surfing the net for new inspiration and techniques. I have two daughters, 17 and 24, who both love sporting my designs and taking them for test-drives as well.

I would love to learn more about purse construction but find it difficult to obtain this type of information. Additionally, I find that my access to purse frames and hardware is limited because I cannot afford to order in the large quantities needed for custom designs. This is probably my most frustrating aspect of handbag design because I am limited by the materials available in small quantities.

As far as advice obtained through my experience -- I have been surprised at how difficult it is to stay on top of current fashion trends. Fashion moves very quickly and is quite fickle. It is very challenging to continuously produce new designs and sometimes I worry that I won't be able to think of something new. So far though, this has not happened.