Designer Leather 101: Here's What You Need to Know


Designer Leather 101: Here's What You Need to Know

Let's cut to the chase. You’ve spent a fortune on that designer bag or those shoes (or you are seriously considering it!). The first rule? Know your leather. The second? Know how to care for it. So, let's dive in.

Fendi Origami Tote

Calfskin Leather - Full Grain

Full grain leather is some of the best and most durable leather produced. Widely used by many designers, it features a natural pebble grain due to the top layer of the calfskin remaining in tact and not sanded down.

Pros:
Beautiful natural grain
Durable and resistant to scratches
Cons:
Most full grain leather is very thick, can cause slouchiness over time.
Demands maintenance.

Care Tips:
Clean regularly, to avoid dirt build up
Condition, but don’t overdo it.
Use a dust bag for storage, preferably in natural fibres for breathability.

  

Chanel Classic Flap Lambskin

Lambskin Leather

A signature used on the Chanel Classic Flaps, Lambskin is a super-soft luxury leather but could be more hassle than it's worth.
Pros:
Soft, luxurious – the haute couture of leathers.
Turns heads with its sheen.
Cons:
Very Delicate. Not for the clumsy.
Easily scratched, not great for every day use.
Care Tips:
Don’t cram your bag; given how soft Lambskin is, it can lose shape easily.
Ensure to waterproof, can stain easily.
Always handle with pristine hands to avoid any oil transfer.

 

Prada Saffiano Re-Edition Bag

Saffiano Leather

Made from Calfskin, the iconic crosshatch pattern is favoured by Prada. Saffiano has come a signature leather for a large amount of their leather collection. 

Pros:
Plays hard to get with scratches and water.
This stiff leather can maintain great structure over time.
Cons:
Tougher feel, can feel plastic-y to the touch.
Care Tips:
Clean? Just a damp cloth. Spot clean with a leather cleaner.
Condition sparingly. Don’t soften its edge.

 

YSL Patent Leather Bag

Patent Leather

Patent leather is predominantly made from Calfskin but can be made from other leathers such as Lambskin or even Sheepskin.
Known for its highly glossy and smooth finish, many designers use patent finish leather as is provides a polished touch for a night time look.
Pros:
Glossy? More like glassy.
Beautiful smooth finish, great for night time glam.
Cons:
Might go sticky on you.
Beware of color transfer.
Care Tips:
Keep it isolated, always store in its dust bag to avoid colour transfer.
Store smart. Avoid humidity.
Regular conditioning is a must, Patent leather is known for cracking.


Hermes Birkin Crocodile

Exotic Leathers (e.g., Crocodile, Ostrich, Snake)

The ultimate in luxury (and price tag), exotic leathers are used less than they have been in recent years, however are still coveted by collectors due to their rare nature and unique appearance. 
Pros:
The pinnacle of luxury.
No two patterns are the same.
Cons:
Prepare to empty your wallet.
Difficult to care for, can be ver delicate.
Care Tips:
For cleaning? Go pro or go home.
Store it like a rare artifact.

 

In Conclusion:
Your designer piece isn't just a buy; it's an investment. An asset. A statement. It says you care about quality and craftsmanship. So, do yourself a favour and care for it the right way. Otherwise, what's the point?


Until next time,
Meagan - Founder LeathrCo.

Back to Articles