Bryna Nicole Handbags
San Francisco designer Bryna Nicole is a newcomer to the handbag world, but her designs are creating a buzz on both coasts. Perhaps that’s because of the bicoastal influence in her designs. “I design for my own everyday lifestyle here in San Francisco, but I make the styles versatile enough to fit into the crazy nonstop life I lead when in New York,” Nicole said.
She designs in San Francisco but has the bags made by hand in New York. Her debut collection for Fall 2006 has a slightly vintage vibe. The bags are constructed of Italian calfskin, cowhide and lambskin, with cotton prints and suede linings. The Spring 2007 collection also features Italian lambskin and calfskin, as well as metallic python embossed leather and some patent-leather accents. “I create each collection to remain classic and wearable from season to season,” Nicole asserted.
Thanks to a simple, understated design, the pleated “Pixley” bag certainly has a timeless quality. The “Pixley” exhibits Nicole’s influences from vintage fashion. With a comfortable silhouette and subtle details, the “Pixley” will likely be a hot seller for Spring because of the simple fact that it can be worn for seasons to come. The “Hallam” clutch— showcasing textured leather with exterior pockets, a smart zipper closure and suede lining—also offers a classic design. The medium-size “Hallidie” satchel is among the styles with more hardware and details, giving a flashier look.
“Minna” definitely falls into the big-bag category. Its short braided strap with an antiqued-brass chain brings the top of the bag inward, giving it a slouchy silhouette. The small exterior pocket with a tasseled zipper pull is fashionable and functional, as it’s perfect for stashing a mobile phone or other items that need to be accessed easily. The style also has a large interior zipper pocket sewn near the top and center of the bag—ideal for makeup or other items that tend to get lost at the bottom of big bags.
Overall, the collection offers a nice mix of classic and flashy styles. The line is currently stocked at Planet Blue in Santa Monica, Calif.; the Mingle and Dylan boutiques in San Francisco; and Addict in New York. Wholesale prices range from $120 to $290, with retail prices running from $230 to $640. For more information, visit www.brynanicole.com or call (415) 722-4760. —Dena Smolek
