ABOUT THE DESIGNER
Hello, I’m Karen Cardoso and my story may sound familiar. I’m a working mom. I live in Long Island, New York, with my husband, two daughters and our dog, Rusty. I’m also a trend spotter. For more than 20 years I worked in the heart of New York’s fashion industry as the head designer on dozens of handbag, cosmetic bag and small leather good projects. I have a good intuition for what works in design and what
doesn’t. Now you’d think a handbag designer would have a home full of pricey purses and never be seen wearing the same one twice. That’s not me. I’ve never been one to change my bag every day nor have I ever felt the need to pay extravagant prices to be a billboard for a particular designer. Don’t get me wrong, I love designer brands as much as the next person, but my approach is more practical. Meaning I always look for a well-made leather bag that can carry me through the work week, transition from day to night, age gracefully and is fairly priced. It hasn’t been easy finding the perfect bag. I launched Bolsa Nova handbags to change all that. It’s a simple idea. Luxurious leather bags but without the luxury prices. Our classic line has the option of interchangeable straps to customize the hardware color, functionality or the look. Go from day to night by changing the strap. The Italian leather bags are made in Florence. They are washed at the factory to give a beautifully distressed look and make them buttery soft. Luxe leather handbags. Versatile styling. Fair prices, the best customer service. I hope you love my bags as much as I love designing them.
ABOUT BOLSA NOVA
Bolsa Nova is Portuguese for “new bag.” That’s because with just a few quick clicks, you can change out your straps to create a new bag of your own creation. Personalize your bag for the season–or for any reason. Go from shoulder strap to cross body. Wristlet to tote. Our name also pays homage to Bossa Nova music, the soothing Brazilian sounds that conjure up visions of effortless beauty and confidence–which is exactly how we want you to feel.
GIVING BACK
Being a mom, wife, daughter and a woman business owner, I feel a responsibility to give back, particularly to women who need a second chance. Our initiatives have included working with an amazing organization called Just in Time that helps children who are aging out of foster care. Here’s the inspiring story of one young woman as she launches her career. We’re also proud to support Bethany House, whose mission of providing safe and supportive emergency housing to women and their children is truly life-changing.