Nancy Gonzalez’s luxurious, handcrafted crocodile bags are the epitome of exotic elegance and enduring style. Owning one of these exclusive pieces reflects an appreciation for fine craftsmanship and signals your membership in the fashion elite.

However, investing in a Nancy Gonzalez crocodile bag requires careful consideration. From understanding the brand’s heritage and authenticating the bag, to choosing the right style, color and understanding care instructions, this buying guide covers everything you need to know.

About Nancy Gonzalez and Her Bags

Nancy Gonzalez is a renowned Colombian designer celebrated for her use of exotic skins, especially crocodile, in chic, timeless handbag designs. After studying design in Italy, Gonzalez honed her skills working for iconic houses like Cartier in New York. She launched her eponymous brand in 1998, quickly winning acclaim for her unique aesthetic that blended classic elegance with vibrant, bold colors.

Each Nancy Gonzalez bag is entirely handcrafted in her workshop in Colombia. Skilled local artisans meticulously select and assemble the precious skins, using time-honored techniques perfected over generations. This artisanal process invests each bag with an exclusive, heirloom-quality feel that large fashion houses struggle to replicate.

While Gonzalez experiments with other skins like ostrich and python, crocodile remains her signature. Its naturally lustrous scales, luxurious feel and subtle variations make it the ultimate emblem of exotic luxury. From totes to clutches, Nancy Gonzalez elevates humble bags into objet d’art that become family treasures passed down for generations.

Types of Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Bags

Nancy Gonzalez offers an extensive range of crocodile bags suitable for different needs:

Everyday Totes

The roomy, lightweight totes are ideal for everyday use. Their simple, elegant profiles with minimal hardware let the crocodile skin take center stage. Subtle variations in each skin’s scales make every bag unique. Popular options include:

• Nancy Tote – A slender, east-west silhouette with a structured base.
• Eric Tote – A classic tote with a zip-top closure and dual handles.
• Jodie Tote – A slouchy, hobo-style tote for a relaxed vibe.

Versatile Satchels

Crocodile satchels strike a balance between casual and formal. With plenty of room for daily essentials, they work for the office or weekend getaways. Signature satchels include:

• Minaudiere Satchel – A modern, top-handle satchel with a vintage feel.
• Bella Satchel – A ladylike design with a detachable strap and turnlock flap.
• Prisma Satchel – A structured satchel with an expandable gusset and removable strap.

Sleek Clutches

Nancy Gonzalez’s crocodile clutches inject any evening ensemble with exotic glamour. Compact yet roomy inside, they come in unique shapes like:

• Origami Clutch – A pleated, envelope-style clutch that folds flat.
• Boom Clutch – A cylinder clutch with a cool, minimalist vibe.
• Jennifer Clutch – An elegant clutch with a foldover flap closure.

Hands-Free Crossbodies

Equally at home sightseeing or running errands, crocodile crossbody bags add luxury to everyday life. Popular options include:

• Metis Flap Crossbody – A classic flap bag updated with a wide, adjustable strap.
• Jodi Camera Crossbody – A structured bag inspired by vintage camera styles.
• Gothic Crossbody – A curve-hugging bag with an expandable center and optional chain strap.

Authenticating a Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Bag

Crocodile leather’s high value means counterfeit Gonzalez bags abound. Follow these tips to ensure your purchase is the real deal:

Purchase from authorized retailers – For new bags, buy directly from Nancy Gonzalez’s website or at reputable retailers like Saks, Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman.

Examine craftsmanship – Authentic Gonzalez bags feature meticulous stitching, luxe branded hardware and skins with consistent scale patterns.

Check for authenticity cards – Real crocodile skin bags come with a certificate of authenticity bearing serial numbers and detailed specifications.

Inspect branding elements – Hardware, linings and detachable pouches should all bear Nancy Gonzalez’s stylized “NG” logo.

Consider condition – Pre-owned bags shouldn’t show excessive wear given crocodile skin’s durability.

Verify country of origin – Gonzalez bags are made exclusively in her Colombian workshop, stated on the authenticity cards.

Buying from reputable luxury resellers like The RealReal or Fashionphile is safest for pre-owned and vintage pieces.

Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Bag Price Range

The commanding price tags reflect exotic crocodile skin’s rarity and preciousness. Expect to invest:

• $2,000 – $5,000 for crocodile clutches
• $3,000 – $8,000 for tote bags
• $3,500 – $7,500 for satchel bags
• $2,800 – $6,000 for crossbody bags

Prices vary based on size, silhouette, exotic skin variations and limited edition offerings with precious hardware. Small, everyday bags in classic black crocodile offer accessible entry points to the brand.

Remember these bags could easily last decades with proper care. Viewing them as heirloom investments that gracefully age over generations makes the steep prices more palatable.

Material and Quality of Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Skin

Authentic crocodile skin – Nancy Gonzalez only uses genuine crocodile, not imitation skins or embossed leather. Look for the natural texture and irregular scale patterns unique to crocodile.

Premium quality hides – Hides are meticulously selected and graded for beautiful scale patterns, supple texture and lustrous finish. Defect-free skins go into the most expensive bags.

Natural variations – The subtle natural variations in the scales’ sizes, shapes and colors add depth and character to each bag. But overall patterns should remain uniform.

Vibrant colors – Gonzalez pioneered colored crocodile skins, aniline-dyeing them in rich hues like red, purple and teal using non-toxic methods. These dyes fully penetrate the skins.

Durable and scratch-resistant – Crocodile leather’s tough exterior withstands daily use. The small scale pattern also minimizes signs of wear.

Caring for and Maintaining a Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Bag

Caring for exotic leather requires some special precautions:

• Keep away from moisture – Avoid wetting the bag and humidity which can damage the skins. If it gets wet, gently dab dry with a soft cloth.
• Store properly – Keep the bag in the included dust bag in a closet or cabinet away from direct sunlight. Heat and light can dry out the leather.
• Condition periodically – Use a moisturizing conditioner formulated for exotic skins every few months to maintain softness and luster. Massage a dime-sized amount into the bag.
• Gently clean – Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away dirt and dust. For deeper cleaning, use a specialist leather cleaner and moist cloth. Avoid submerging the bag in water.
• Avoid direct contact with darker fabrics and jeans which can rub off color. Insert a cloth between the bag and clothing.

With proper care, a crocodile skin Nancy Gonzalez handbag will become more supple and beautiful for decades.

Choosing the Right Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Bag Style

Consider the bag’s purpose when selecting a style:

Bags for Everyday Use

For regular use, choose a tote or satchel in a neutral color like black, brown or beige. The east-west Nancy Tote provides a timeless silhouette. Structured satchels like the Prisma are polished yet practical.

Bags for Special Occasions

Make a dramatic entrance at galas and weddings with a sleek crocodile clutch in a vibrant, metallic or light color that pops against cocktail dresses. Styles like the Origami and Boom pack visual impact into compact, evening-ready designs.

Bags for Travel

Crossbody bags are ideal travel companions, keeping valuables secure while leaving hands free. Handsome styles like the Gothic Crossbody transition seamlessly from sightseeing to upscale dinners. A crossbody with an adjustable strap accommodates bulky coats.

Consider your lifestyle and choose a silhouette that seamlessly fits into your wardrobe. An everyday tote that complements both button-downs for work and casual wear on weekends offers versatility.

Color Options for Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Bags

While neutral tones provide timeless options, Nancy Gonzalez is celebrated for her vibrant, saturated palettes that showcase the depth and luster of crocodile skin.

Classic Colors

• Black – A perennial classic that pairs with everything.
• Brown – From light caramel to deep espresso hues. Warm and versatile.
• Beige – Biscuit, nutmeg and sand colors provide neutral options.

Bold Colors

• Red – Crimson, burgundy and ruby shades make sensational statement pieces.
• Blue – Navy, cobalt and teal options range from nautical to striking.
• Green – Rich jade, emerald and chartreuse colors.

Metallic Finishes

• Gold – Shimmering gold and champagne metallics, perfect for evenings out.
• Silver – Icy, platinum and mercury silver tones add futuristic glam.
• Bronze – Warm copper and bronze imbue a gorgeous antique patina.

Exotics

• Ostrich – Leg, neck and back ostrich panels combine tactile patterns.
• Stingray – Striking, iridescent textured leather.
• Alligator – Its fine, densely packed scales create a luxurious look.

Where To Buy Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Bags

Department Stores

• Neiman Marcus – One of Gonzalez’s original wholesale partners in the US. Offers a large selection.
• Bergdorf Goodman – An iconic luxury New York department store that stocks Gonzalez’s latest collections.
• Saks – Retailer with a sizable offering of Nancy Gonzalez bags both in-stores and online.

Nancy Gonzalez Official Website

• www.nancygonzalez.com – Buying directly from the brand guarantees authenticity. Offers international shipping.

Luxury Resale Sites

• The RealReal – Trusted luxury consignment marketplace with authentication experts. Great for pre-owned and vintage Gonzalez.
• Fashionphile – Reputable reseller that thoroughly vets pre-owned designer bags. Offers exchanges.
• Rebag – Reliable resale site with competitive pricing and money-back guarantees.
• Vestiaire Collective – International site with extensive selection of authenticated pre-owned Gonzalez bags.

Resale Value of Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Bags

With proper care, Nancy Gonzalez bags hold value exceptionally well:

• Timeless, classic styles – Gonzalez rarely discontinues classic styles, so they remain in demand.
• Durability of crocodile skin – Allows the bags to resist wear and retains lustrous finish.
• Meticulous craftsmanship – Handmade construction creates heirloom quality pieces.
• Exclusivity – Limited production quantities due to crocodile skins’ rarity.
• Brand prestige – Gonzalez is renowned industry-wide for exotic leather mastery.

To maximize resale value, keep the original dust bag, authenticity cards, care booklet and packaging. Check reputable sites to price competitively for current resale market trends.

Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Bags as Investments

For savvy buyers, an iconic Nancy Gonzalez crocodile bag represents a meaningful fashion investment with enduring financial value:

Timeless Appeal

Nancy Gonzalez bags stay in style season after season thanks to her focus on elegant, classic silhouettes rendered in luxe materials over trendy details.

Durability

Crocodile leather is naturally hardy and scratch-resistant. Its tough scales and oils allow it to age beautifully over decades of use when cared for properly.

Exclusive Craftsmanship

The intensive handcrafting process makes each Nancy Gonzalez bag rare and precious. Her workshop production remains small-scale and highly specialized.

Brand Reputation

Nancy Gonzalez has earned wide acclaim from fashion cognoscenti for her mastery interpreting exotic skins in chic formats.

Scarcity Value

Limited by the availability of top-grade crocodile hides, Nancy Gonzalez’s bags retain exclusivity. Their relative rarity boosts resale prices.

So when you invest in a Nancy Gonzalez crocodile treasure, you’re not just buying a beautiful accessory but also acquiring a lasting asset. With time, the refined patina it develops only increases its allure and worth.

In Summary

From understanding the sought-after craftsmanship to selecting the ideal silhouette and color, this guide covers everything required to invest wisely in your own Nancy Gonzalez crocodile heirloom. Taking care to properly authenticate and maintain your bag will help preserve its value.

While certainly a splurge, a Nancy Gonzalez crocodile skin bag transcends a fashion purchase. It represents acquiring a work of wearable art handmade by a true master of exotic leathers. With timeless appeal and enduring luxuriousness, it’s an investment that pays dividends in both satisfaction and resale value for years to come.