Finding Leather Products That Speak Fashion: A Guide
Leather is undoubtedly one of the most desirable materials in fashion, and it is a long-standing symbol of luxury, style, and durability. However, with a wide range of pieces available on the market, it can be challenging to find something that personally connects with you, matches your unique style, and will be on-trend for many years to come.
In my latest guide, I will help steer you across the world of leather fashion, suggesting top choices to add to your wardrobe. Carry on reading to discover more.
Leather is a fabric used by the whole spectrum of clothing brands—from budget to designer, to create leather jackets, footwear, bags, and accessories. However, not all ‘leather goods’ are built the same, and in the following sections, I will share crucial knowledge so you can invest in clothing items that will look fantastic and stand the test of time.
Discover The Different Leather Types
Many kinds of leather are used in the fashion industry, and certain types have different values regarding texture, durability, and appearance.
Lamb-leather is often used on premium leather jackets (AllSaints, in particular, are huge advocates of the fabric) due to its soft (almost silky) texture; however, it is quite delicate compared to its brothers and sisters. Conversely, top-grain leather delivers a smooth and refined look regularly found on premium sofas (or designer bags).
Alternatively, if you want a fabric with a strong natural texture that is very durable, full-grain leather should be your number one choice. It is also highly popular as it ages beautifully, developing a striking and unique patina pattern over the course of its life (and it is often used for bags and belts).
If you are searching for quality construction with stylish good looks, Bullsheath Leather offers a range of different pieces for the fashion-forward man about town (especially if you are looking for a new wallet!).
As a final point, understanding the different types of leather available can help you in the final buying process—will you choose a classic suede or a modern-looking embossed leather finish? Whatever you choose, remember that its individual style can determine its versatility across your different outfits, events, and occasions.
Craftsmanship And Stitching Quality
Even though leather is tough and hard-wearing, how each piece is constructed will heavily impact its longevity. Before handing over your cash, examine the stitching on the jacket, bag, or wallet to be sure it’s firmly held together.
If your chosen product uses quality stitching, it will provide strength and reinforce durability, protecting against premature wear and tear (and I do not mean the cool, distressed look), especially on the edges and along the seams. Check for double-stitching in high-stress and usage areas (handles, straps, pockets, etc.), as this will defend against the pressure of regular use.
Many high-quality leather goods are traditionally handmade, which then delivers a unique and artisanal appearance (rather than the tired factory-line designs from budget brands).
When buying from a clothing retailer devoted to craftsmanship, it will likely last much longer and be a stand-out addition to your clothing arsenal. It will look great for a considerable length of time (many well-made leather jackets that are decades old still look the part even now).
Select A Timeless Design Instead Of Trends
Even though a currently trending item (no doubt, thanks to social media exposure) looks very tempting, it is very unlikely to offer lasting value or versatility. However, if you choose a classic leather design, it can always be incorporated into your existing collection, no matter what fleeting trend is currently in vogue.
Fill your wardrobe with timeless styles such as a black leather jacket, tan holdall, or dark brown wallet (or any number of neutral-toned pieces), which can be easily paired with a variety of different outfits, no matter the season.
Trendy and chic modern styles may look good right now, but they lose their appeal quickly. Yet with a tried-and-tested classic, you will be investing in leather goods that will boost your style for many seasons to come (and will age like a fine wine).
Functionality And Practicality
Even though your stylish items need to look the part, they should also be practical – which is just as important with your high-end leather goods.
Before splashing the cash, consider how you will use your bag, wallet, belt, or jacket. Will your chic leather jacket allow for ease of movement? Does it have an inside pocket for your phone? That hot designer leather holdall—is it spacious enough to be functional? Does it have enough internal compartments for your essentials?
It is vital to choose leather items that blend practicality and aesthetics, delivering style and usability. This will ensure that your day-to-day activities run smoothly and tick off those fashionista boxes! Opt for items that include quality-of-life features such as extra pockets, adjustable straps, and secure closures, which will promote them to indispensable status.
Colour And Finish
As touched on earlier, the colour and finish of the leather are vital considerations before making a purchase (as this will influence how it fits into your existing wardrobe choices). The neutral colours of black, brown, and tan are fantastic choices, pairing perfectly with pretty much any outfit, event, or occasion.
Similarly, the overall finish is just as important—will you go with an eye-catching, sophisticated glossy finish? Or a more subtle matte texture that bodes well with a rugged and casual look?
When you are in the market for coloured leather products, always consider whether they will work in both a formal and casual setting. A lighter palette is often used to make a bold, fashionable statement, whereas dark shades will display a high level of elegance.
The Value Of Ageing And The Patina Effect
Leather is one of the few fabrics (along with denim) that arguably looks better as it gracefully ages. Over time, quality leather will develop a patina effect (a soft sheen that adds extra richness and character to the overall look), which, incidentally, looks fantastic on men’s formal footwear.
The natural ageing process will undoubtedly boost the material’s appeal and, in some cases, value (jackets and bags with authentic ageing regularly attract high prices on the second-hand market). Even though you can purchase leather goods that arrive ‘pre-distressed,’ they will rarely match the look of something that has genuinely and naturally aged over the years.
Many of us actively avoid clothing items that show signs of wear (especially if they command a high price). Leather goods, on the other hand, allow you to value this unique transformation, revelling in its special charm and its life journey, which showcases your experiences, personality, and style.
Overall
When searching for a high-quality leather item that will last a lifetime, you need to determine several factors, including the quality, functionality, design, and the different types of leather used in construction (particularly if you want something that will age beautifully). Once you have found that perfect leather item, you will be able to enhance your visual appeal and build a wardrobe that is sharp and fashionable.
Are you a fan of leather goods and accessories? If so, will you be taking note of the advice in my latest style guide? Please let me know in the comments section below.
