Patricia Nash is the CEO of Patricia Nash Designs, a family-owned and operated fashion brand that specializes in artisan-crafted leather handbags and accessories. The brand was established in 2010 and is known for its celebration of craftsmanship, storytelling, and vintage aesthetics. Each piece within the collection is inspired by true events and stories, such as travel, family, works of art, and love stories. The brand incorporates vintage detailing in every piece, resulting in a seamless marriage of timeless style and modern sophistication.
Southern Bride interviewed Patricia Nash, the CEO, to discuss the inspiration behind the designs and current handbag trends.
How did the love of travel and storytelling turn into handbag design?
My love for travel came from extensive European work/travel, my love affair with my current husband whom I met in London which led to my love of walking the cobblestone streets across Europe and vintage shops which are a big part of the European retail landscape.
Do you have a bag from your past that carries fond memories?
Yes, several. The old frame bags of my grandmother’s and the old handmade denim blue jean bags I recycled and made for myself.
Your Spring 2024 collection is highly influenced by the Renaissance. What was it about the Renaissance that inspired your designs and why do you think it would be an appealing design?
This Renaissance Design aesthetic is from a century of design work across Italy. Everything from wallpaper to etching on buildings also seen as inspiration from top luxury designers like Dolce & Gabbana.
How do you blend vintage design with current trends?
We can have the most amazing memory of that great vintage bag we remember in our youth but if it’s not functional, comfortable, affordable, or meets most of our needs, it sits in our closet and the older we become we just leave it there. I try to incorporate both the functionality we demand but hold true to the vintage styling we embrace and remember.
What place from your travels has inspired you the most?
Italy, France, Spain, and England
Does our handbag need to match anything else we are wearing, pattern or color?
Absolutely not! What is lovely about the times is there are no rules. Be your own person, which is a big part of the Patricia Nash DNA.
What honeymoon ready bag would you recommend from your collection?
A clutch, as we don’t need much. We just want that fresh IT bag with us for a romantic dinner.
Do you think handbag trends have longevity compared to clothing?
Absolutely. I think about IT bags my mother carried that now my granddaughter wants.
Do you have a favorite handbag from your collection?
I can’t say but I do love our leather bags over any other brand.
Do you have any plans to design bridal purses?
No, not specifically because we have some frame clutches that are perfect!
