At 22, Danielle Nicole handbag designer Danielle DiFerdinando, has the common sense, wisdom and business savvy of someone twice her age. Her soft, luxurious lambskin handbags aren't bad either! Read our exclusive Q & A with her and you just might learn something from this young entrepreneur.We see that you started in fashion very young. What initially inspired it?
I came up with Danielle Nicole while I was still in high school. I was involved in the club Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). It started out as a topic for my fashion merchandising competition and I ended up turning into a real life company. Danielle Nicole was first a line of ties for women. Later on I took the left over material and sewed it into handbags.
When I arrived at FIT, I was so blown away by the fast paced environment. While I attended the Fashion Institute of Technology, I had internships every semester. Starting with Gucci, Bergdorf Goodman, and BE&D handbags. Now Danielle Nicole handbags can be found in Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Holt Renfrew, Bloomingdales, and Nordstrom. The line is also carried in 40 specialty stores across the US.
You are known for your use of fine leathers. Why did you choose leather to set yourself apart?
I love the hand feel of nappa lambskin. It's very soft and luxurious. Many of my competitors use cow, so I needed to figure out a way to be different.
My handbags are also very versatile and lightweight. By listening to the retailers' and consumers' concerns, desires, and needs, I have created a line of handbags that are not only chic but are extremely functional. Many of the Danielle Nicole handbags possess details such as outside pockets for easy access and adjustable straps. All of the purses and cosmetic bags are lined with washable ultra suede in anticipation of make-up spills so all you need is a little soap and water to clean inside the bags.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
My passion for bohemian history to world geography and cultural movements guide my inspiration and are established in my designs. Shapes, colors, styles, themes, are all pulled from the sentiments and inspirations of living. By using current events, art, music, literature, and all matters of life that touch everyone, I have tried to fill a void in the market place.
Which celebrity's style do you dig?
The celebrity's styles that I admire would have to be Kate Beckinsale, Kate Winslet, Jane Krakowski, Amy Adams and America Ferrara. These are women who have a sense of self. They look comfortable in their own skin and send a promising and real image to their fans.
Any words of wisdom for Stylelist readers?
I want to encourage and inspire women to go after they want in life. Being 22 years old, I have learned a lot about life and business since moving to New York. Never let anything stop you from getting want you want. You will get what you want as long as you stay focused and motivated. Don't be scared to ask, what's the worst someone is going to say? No?