Kooba began in 1998, launched by you and your mother, Bonnie. What is it like working as a mother-daughter team?

Everything has its pros and cons but for the most part it's great...working with someone that you're so close too and who can basically finish the rest of your sentence makes it so comfortable and easy. Especially when we have such similar sensibilities.

How would you describe your brand in 3 words or less?

Relaxed, free-thinking & passionate.

Back when the brand first began, the handbags were very structured and none were made of leather. How did you evolve to what the line is today?

The relaxed sensibility and attitude of the brand has stayed the same. But, like everything, you evolve and grow. I've been designing the brand for over 10 years so it's exciting to change the silhouettes and play around with different leathers, colors, and textures.

You have named many of the bags after celebrities. Can you name one celebrity who truly embodies the Kooba brand?

Sienna Miller and Kate Moss are two examples of woman who embody the Kooba brand... woman who can mix high, low and new to create their own unique style. They create and define their own look.

Do you have a personal favorite from any of your past collections?

I have many favorites ...depends on what I am doing and my mood. Right now, I am wearing the Dasha from our Spring line. It's lightweight, effortless and just the right size to throw in all my essentials for the day.

The styles of your handbags are always so innovative. Where does your inspiration come from?

From a lot of things -magazines...movies...furniture...woman I see on the street. It's really a combination of so many different elements coming together.

Do you have any plans of crossing over into apparel?

Who knows...I would love to expand the lifestyle of the brand. It's exciting to venture into shoes...apparel...home design. We will just have to see!

Describe your customer?

The Kooba woman is independent and confident. She appreciates quality, functionality and attention to detail.

Would you consider the Kooba bag to be an indulgence or a necessity?

We focus on creating a collection of bags that are on trend but will never look dated...they are timeless. We think of the handbags as an investment in every woman's wardrobe.

What is currently playing on your ipod?

I have such a wide range of music. My daughters are always playing new music for me. I like everything ...from Bruno Mars to Kanye West, Jay-Z to Katy Perry.

Can you name that pivotal moment when you knew the brand had made it?

After we launched the Sienna bag, we couldn't keep up with all of the requests. We sold out completely! It was a great feeling to have something you designed liked by so many.

How are you inspired by life in New York?

By everything really. I've lived here my whole life and still find new things to explore. Everything is constantly changing...the architecture...the people you see... There's no city like it.

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