Nordstrom Meet the Designer: Danielle DiFerdinando of Danielle Nicole

On Friday I had the opportunity to visit Nordstorm at Towson Town Center and meet handbag designer, Danielle DiFerdinando of Danielle Nicole. 

Danielle, who is a Baltimore native, started her handbag line at the age of 18 while attending college at FIT and interning at Bergdorf Goodman. Now, six years later, her handbags can be found in Nordstrom's, Macy's, Dillards, Piperlime and several speciality boutiques around the world. 

Danielle, who was so nice and incredibly genuine, took time out of her busy afternoon to chat with me a bit:

What inspired you to start your line? 

I just loved fashion, I have always loved handbag designs ever since I was a little girl. When I went to New York, I started making handbags out of my dorm room apartment. From there, I wore my handbags everyday and finally got noticed by different buyers and celebrities. I wake up in the morning and I can't wait to get to my office to start working on new designs. 

What is your proudest achievement?

Proudest achievement would definitely be Oprah. Oprah bought 5,500 bags from me for her O You! event two years ago. That was definitely a highlighting moment. Also, the first time I went on HSN. That was so much fun going on TV, to reach that many people at one time, that was another big moment for me.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

Best piece of advice would be to always work hard and don't let anything get in your way to stop you from conquering your dream. Especially as a young businessperson, a lot of people along the way say, "she can't do it," and have negative energy. You just have to push through it and keep going. If you believe in something and you have passion for it, nothing will stop you. 

I am truly amazed at Danielle's persistence and drive as a young designer. She is definitely an inspiration to me and I am so happy I got the chance to meet and chat with her!

xo-K

{images: my instagram}