Interview with designer Poppy Nadal

If there's one thing I love doing, but don't do enough of, it's interviews - but I was lucky enough to have the chance to interview Poppy Nadal, who is a designer/creative director at The Original Satchel Store. Poppy studied graphic design in France and fine art in London, and has worked on some incredible projects with ELLE, Stella McCartney and EUDON CHOI. Really there's nothing cooler than a satchel, and I wanted to know a bit more about the girl behind the bags...

Was your childhood/upbringing quite design or art-orientated? 

I’ve always seen my mother painting after work, and as a child I would sit with her and talk about colours. I always enjoyed painting with her. My dad is a passionate winemaker; I guess that’s another type of art! My sisters are in the arts as well.

What made you want to be a designer?

I always saw myself as an artist and designer. I trained in fine art at Central St. Martins in London, and I always admired the creations of the Fashion Department, but I love art and live for it.

How do you stay up to date when it comes to fashion?

Like most people, I stay up to date online. My social media feeds are full of fashion and art news. There are so many fantastic bloggers out there who I admire and follow but I also look to my friends for the latest trends. Some trends come and go but I admire people who have their own personal style and I’m a big fan of classics, like the satchel, which is timeless.  

What is your biggest source of inspiration?

I work across Paris, Barcelona and the South of France so ‘place’ is important to me. It’s really influential on your creativity when you’re in the right environment to create day after day. I had amazing experiences and inspirations in London and Paris, but now Barcelona is just right for the time being. I have my studio here and I work with ceramics as well as designing bags. It’s just perfect! We are the only satchel company to have appointed its own bag designer. We are a fashion brand and we have a clear idea of what our customers want.

What’s your number one goal or dream in your career?

If I could design a satchel for anyone it would be for Iris Afpel, her look is irresistible. I hope I’ll look as good as her when I’m her age! I would deliver it myself so she could tell me her secret.

If you had to choose between shoes and handbags, which would it be and why?

Do I HAVE to choose?! Both shoes and handbags can make or break a look but I will have to go for handbags. To me, totes and satchels are the two ‘must have’ bags in the wardrobe; they are chic and fit any occasion.

A massive thanks to Poppy for having a chat with me and answering some questions! You can find some of her gorgeous satchels here: The Original Satchel Store (my favourite is the citrus yellow tote!)