2000s Nancy Gonzalez Emerald Green Top Handle Tote

Born in Cali, Colombia, luxury handbag designer Nancy Gonzalez started her eponymous business with her late son, Santiago Gonzalez, in 1998, selling her very first collection at Bergdorf Goodman. Her vibrant yet timeless designs for handbags and top-handle bags are inspired by the nature and culture of her home country, and they’re handcrafted there, too, by local artisans. The brand is committed to social change — Gonzalez is focused on uplifting Colombian women. She prioritizes the well-being of her workforce, which is largely made up of women, and offers support systems such as childcare to all employees.

Nancy Gonzalez handbags are typically made from eclectic, naturally dyed skins like iridescent python and cobalt-blue ostrich or plant-based materials like banana leaf. But the brand’s signature material is crocodile skin, often dyed in bright colors, with the majority of their leathers sourced from the Gonzalez farms in Colombia.

The designer has also partnered with top contemporary artists such as Will Cotton, Jim Hodges, Jenny Holzer, KAWS and Dr. Lakra on limited-edition designs for the TWO x TWO for AIDS and Art gala and auction, hosted by the Dallas Museum of Art and amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research.

With a joyous exuberance in their colorful designs, the bags are a favorite of global A-listers and tastemakers alike.

Beyond its handbag and purse collection, the Nancy Gonzalez brand also expanded to men’s and women’s accessories and shoes, launching its first footwear collection in 2016. All of these new additions embraced the brand’s distinctive style with crocodile skin and vivid hues while also pushing their designs forward with new pieces and techniques like laser cutting. The company closed its doors in 2024.

Find vintage Nancy Gonzalez handbags and other accessories on 1stDibs today.