When buying a handbag, many people want to make sure beforehand that the material is authentic and of high quality. Differentiating between a natural leather bag and one made of synthetic material may seem complicated at first glance.
At Monpiel, we offer leather bags made from high-quality materials, committed to sustainability and local craftsmanship. That’s why we are very familiar with the clues that suggest we are dealing with a replica bag rather than one made of genuine leather.
There are several indicators and tricks we’ll share below that can help you identify if you are really looking at a genuine leather product.
One of the first signs of authenticity is the feel. Natural leather feels soft, warm, and flexible, with a texture that slightly changes in different areas of the bag. It’s not completely uniform, and this is one of its greatest qualities. If, when you touch it, you feel a plastic, cold, or stiff sensation, it’s likely that you are dealing with a synthetic material. Genuine leather responds to movement: when you press it, you’ll see subtle creases form. This elasticity is difficult to replicate in artificial materials.
Genuine leather has a distinctive, organic, and slightly earthy scent, a result of its animal origin and the tanning process. This smell is natural and persistent. You’re probably already familiar with the scent we’re talking about.
On the other hand, synthetic bags often have a chemical or plastic smell, due to the adhesives or industrial compounds used in their manufacturing.
If the smell is too artificial or strong, be suspicious.
Natural leather shows variations in its texture, such as marks or visible pores, that demonstrate its authenticity. Each piece of leather has a unique texture, like a fingerprint, making each bag a one-of-a-kind product. Our bags, like the Shopper Basic leather bag model, reflect these distinctive features.
In contrast, bags that imitate natural leather have a completely homogeneous texture, with no visible variations or imperfections. This uniformity, although aesthetically appealing to some, can be a clear sign that the material is synthetic.
One of the greatest advantages of genuine leather is that it ages gracefully. With use, leather develops a surface layer that adds character and depth to the material. Far from deteriorating, a natural leather bag becomes more beautiful over time.
Synthetic materials, on the other hand, tend to crack, peel, or lose color with continuous use. If you're looking for a piece that will last for years, natural leather is a much more worthwhile investment.
A simple technique you can use at home is the absorption test. Place a small drop of water on a discreet area of the bag. If it's made of natural leather, the liquid will be slowly absorbed, slightly darkening the area. If the water stays on the surface without being absorbed, or simply slides off, it is likely not genuine leather.
Keep in mind that not all leathers absorb the same way, but this test can give you an initial clue.
The level of detail in the bag's craftsmanship can also help you identify its authenticity. Natural leather bags often have reinforced seams, interiors lined with high-quality materials, and well-crafted finishes.
In addition, leather allows for clean cuts and smooth edges that don’t fray.
Synthetic materials, on the other hand, often have glued edges, less meticulous seams, or finishes that wear out more easily.
With these tips, you now have the keys to distinguish a noble material from a synthetic one.
Explore, touch, observe, and smell: trusting your senses will always be your best guide. Because when it comes to natural leather, the difference is noticeable.
And don’t forget that the best way to ensure your bag is 100% genuine leather is to get one from our catalog. Visit our website!
