What is cooler than a Coach handbag slung over a fashion consious woman? How about a leather Coach handbag? Leather is one of those special items that feels great, smells better, and can make or break your newest look. Leather is durable, it's hip, and it works in all seasons. But above all, leather is cool. Always.
The thing is, leather is not cheap, and coming from a living thing, proper maintenance is important. Here are some tips to make sure your stylish handbag, or jacket for that matter makes it for years to come. Let's start with a discussion on the different kinds of leather your handbag may come in.
Plain leather comes from an animal pelt which has been tanned (chemical and mechanical process to eliminate perishables) and turned into a material. This is what you see many or most leather items with. It is most economical.
Then you have full-grain leather. This is the original, unaltered hide (typically of a cow) which has had the hair removed. Full grain shows the full grain of the animal. Full grain leather is high quality.
Lambskin leather from a young sheep or lamb. While kidskin leather from a young goat. Calfskin leather comes from young bovine (cow), while cowhide leather from a mature cow. Pigskin leather comes from pigs and hogs. When dealing with Suede, the flesh side (underside) of the leather is buffed to produce a nap. These are the major styles of leather that you'll find in handbags.
Here are some tips you canwork with to keep your animal leather in top condition.
In general, the less the skin has been treated (dyed, corrected, etc.) the higher the quality of the piece. All the additional handling is what is used to treat the imperfections. Leather should look natural, smell good and have a great hand (feel great when you touch it.) Your senses will tell you the difference. You should be attracted to the piece. If it smells funny or feels funny, then it is poor quality.
Full grain leather is the highest quality, split leather is the cheapest. Don't store leather in a plastic garment bag. It can't breathe. Opt for a cloth cover instead. Remember, this is an organic thing, and it needs the air transfer to make it stay in good condition.
You should not iron leather, but if for some reason, you find that it is necessary, then you should do it on the lowest setting, and ideally have a thin cloth or towel between the leather and the iron to protect it.
Leather will change shape, so don't hang it full of stuff. It will take the shape of the weight. If you run into a challenge with any of the stiches in the seam, you can use a little rubber cement. If it is bad, take it to a professional to have it repaired.
If the handbag gets wet, allow it to dry naturally in the air. Avoid extreme heat or humidity that may damage the skin's natural oils. There is no quick fix to a wet handbag. Clean smooth leathers with a damp cloth. You can use a little leather conditioner.
Regularly brush suedes and nubuck. Avoid cleaning chemicals. Don't spray hairspray or perfume near your leather handbag, as the leather will get tarnished from the chemicals.
When your handbag gets soiled, take it to a cleaner and have it professionally done. The price is worth it so you don't destroy it!
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