When it comes to class and sophistication, few materials exude the timeless allure of leather, which has been the material of choice for luxury handbags for many years now.
Leather is a luxury staple, a symbol of elegance and durability, and the leather bag has earned itself an esteemed reputation as a must-have fashion accessory, with these exquisite pieces not only serving as practical companions but also elevating any outfit to make a powerful style statement.
If you’re feeling the urge for a splurge on a brand new leather bag to add to your growing collection then here, we take a look at how to choose the perfect model to enhance your wardrobe and complement your lifestyle.
Handmade vs. machine-made
One crucial consideration when shopping for your ideal handbag is whether to opt for a handmade or machine-made model. The market is saturated with machine-made accessories, which are cheaper for companies to produce, but while this mass production makes bags more affordable, luxury lovers will know that owning ten cheap bags isn’t nearly as satisfying as owning just a few exceptional ones, which is why for those who value quality, handmade luxury leather goods are the only way to go.
Handmade leather goods are made with expert craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail to ensure that each and every item is of unparalleled quality, surpassing anything mass production can achieve. Each handmade bag is a unique masterpiece, reflecting the vision and dedication of the artisan behind it, and unlike machine-made accessories, which are churned out in identical batches, a handmade piece is truly one-of-a-kind.
Type of leather
When shopping for high end leather goods, the type of leather you choose is a crucial factor that significantly influences their look and feel. Your primary choices are full-grain versus bonded leather; full-grain is the gold standard, and offers incredible quality. Rather remarkably, it also looks even better with age, with the natural patina that develops over time adding character and depth and making your bag of choice look even more unique.
On the other hand, bonded leather is something you’ll want to steer clear of. It’s essentially made from material pieces that are chemically bonded together, with the quality of this material being noticeably lower. It wears out much faster, and simply doesn’t provide the same luxurious feel as full-grain leather, so between the two types, there really is no contest.
Investing in full-grain leather will ensure that your luxury leather goods not only last longer but also retain their elegance and charm over many years – and you’ll appreciate the difference every time you carry it. It’s a decision you won’t regret, and a choice that reflects not just in the bag’s durability but also in its style and sophistication.
Durability
On that note, when investing in luxury leather goods, durability is key, and a well-made leather bag should be built to last. To ensure your bag stands the test of time, be sure to look at the quality of the stitching. If it looks sloppy or unreliable, then give it a wide berth, as high-quality stitching is crucial to ensuring a bag’s longevity. You deserve the best, and that means no room for poor craftsmanship that will have your bag falling apart in less than six months;
If you’re in a bricks-and-mortar boutique, you’ll also want to open the bag and inspect the inside. Make sure everything looks and feels right and that the lining reflects the same high quality the bag exudes on the outside. Don’t hesitate to touch and check if everything is properly in place, as spending a few extra minutes on this will make sure that your bag of choice is designed to last a decade or more – not to barely make it through the season.
Last but not least, also have a quick look at the bag’s straps or handles to ensure they are robust enough before you buy. The last thing you want is for all your prized possessions to end up on the pavement should they come loose or rip, so it’s easy to understand why this bit is key.
Functionality
When selecting a luxury leather product, functionality is just as crucial as style and durability. Think about what you plan to carry in your new bag, and be sure that it’s going to fit. While a small bag with no extra compartments might be fine for carrying around your night out essentials, if you’d like to be able to transport your laptop around with you then you’ll need one with a large compartment designed to keep it safe, and if you like to stay organised then additional pockets for your phone, keys and wallet will also likely come in handy.
Pay close attention to the overall size, and the available space inside. A bag that looks great but can’t hold everything you need will ultimately end up being useless, so don’t be tempted to splash out on the latest it-bag if it doesn’t fit the bill. Making sure the model you choose can accommodate your requirements will make your life far easier when it comes to the day-to-day, and you’ll thank yourself for it later on.
Origin
When investing in a leather bag, take a look at the country of origin, as this can significantly impact upon its quality. Italy and France are renowned for their exceptional leather craftsmanship – but don’t be swayed solely by a label claiming it’s made in Italy. Some companies often exploit this reputation by producing bags cheaply elsewhere and merely finishing them in Italy to earn that prestigious label, so instead of falling for these tricks, focus on the actual quality of the product and whether it otherwise meets your standards. Trust your judgment and prioritise craftsmanship over labels.
Style
With all the practical aspects covered, it’s time to focus on style. If the luxury leather product you’ve got your eye on ticks all the right boxes and also appeals to you from an aesthetic perspective, then you’re likely onto a winner.
The perfect accessory is one that combines function with flair – so now, all that’s left is to enjoy it and show it off with confidence.
