How you look is everything in the modern world. From expanding your dating prospects to snagging that new promotion you’ve been eyeing, the way you present yourself is the line in the sand between success and failure. As conventional wisdom goes — if you don’t care, why should anyone else? Fine leather goods, as a result, have risen in popularity as one of the classiest ways of sprucing up your image for any and all occasions. These fashion statements have been around for thousands of years and come in the form of leather messenger bags, womens leather wallets and old-fashioned belts. Feel like your wardrobe, and you by extension, could use a touch-up? Check out the top five tips below for how to shake up your image.
A Blossoming Industry
Did you know the value of American product shipments of leather belts alone amounted to nearly $92 million back in 2009? If you think that’s impressive, just wait until you see the popularity of womens leather wallets and leather totes. Around 3% of households with an annual income of $100,000 or more spent at least $500 on men’s belts, gloves, eyewear and wallets back in 2015. Overall? More than 23 billion leather square feet of leather were produced in 2007, making this one of the most competitive industries in the fashion world.
As Old As Time
Why has leather been such a consistent element in fashion and crafts, anyway? Is it the time-tested durability of the material or is it the classy and appealing design? You’ll be happy to know it’s all that and then some. Leather items, such as the iconic aviator jacket worn by General Patton in World War II or the black leather jacket worn by James Dean, have become cemented in the fashion world for years. Whether you like a throwback 80’s vibe or want to truly become as modern as your environment, leather goods will always stand the test of time.
Stylish And Easy
Need a quick touch-up? Try adding a new belt or wallet to your wardrobe. European designers, such as Claude Montana and Versace, have built their brand on creating classy leather constructions for the everyday buyer. Don’t worry too much about going overboard with a new look — less is more! A new pair of shoes or a simple pair of gloves will help immensely in making you look smarter, classier and more modern than ever.
Popular All Around
Celebrities from all industries and passions have bought into the leather craze and it’s not hard to see why. Celebrity Chloe Moretz, for example, modeled leather goods for Coach’s spring campaign earlier in 2016. Some of the most popular fashion brands, like Gucci and Hermes, have entire sections dedicated to womens leather wallets and satchels. According to a survey by Absolute Breton, leather accessories are only going to continue growing in popularity over the coming years.
Easy To Maintain
Last, but certainly not least, we have leather’s unique durability and age to talk about. Leather is like fine wine, only getting prettier and tougher with the years, and can see many goods lasting for a long time if properly taken care of. Leather is susceptible to absorbing grease and oils, however, and should be handled with clean hands. Giving your leather goods a quick clean-up every six months or so should prevent common issues like soiling and spotting. Make sure not to expose leather to low humidities for too long, either, as the structure can be compromised. Looking good is more than just a luxury — it’s a lifestyle!
