When buying a handbag, many people want to ensure that the material is authentic and of high quality. Differentiating between a natural leather bag and one made from synthetic material may seem complicated at first glance.
At Monpiel, we offer you leather handbags made from high-quality materials, committed to sustainability and local craftsmanship. That’s why we are familiar with the cues that suggest we are dealing with an imitation bag rather than one made from genuine leather.
Here are several indicators and tips that can help you identify if you are really dealing with a genuine leather product.
One of the first signs of authenticity is the touch. 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 virtues. If, when touching it, you notice a plastic, cold, or rigid sensation, it's likely that you're facing a synthetic material. Genuine leather responds to movement: when pressed, it forms subtle wrinkles. This elasticity is difficult to replicate in artificial materials.
Authentic leather has a distinctive, organic, and slightly earthy aroma, resulting from its animal origin and tanning process. This scent is natural and persistent. You probably already know what smell we are talking about.
On the other hand, synthetic bags often have a chemical or plastic smell, which comes from the glues or industrial compounds used in their manufacturing.
If the smell is too artificial or strong, be wary.
Natural leather shows variations in its texture, such as marks or visible pores, which demonstrate its authenticity. Each piece of leather has a unique texture, like a fingerprint, making every 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 uniform texture, with no visible variations or imperfections. This uniformity, while aesthetically appealing to some, can be a clear sign that the material is synthetic.
One of the greatest advantages of authentic leather is that it ages with elegance. 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 accompany you 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 absorbed slowly, slightly darkening the area. If the water stays on the surface without being absorbed, or simply slides off, it's 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 construction of the bag can also help you identify its authenticity. Natural leather bags often have reinforced stitching, interiors lined with quality materials, and well-crafted finishes.
Additionally, leather allows for clean cuts and smooth edges that do not fray.
Synthetic materials, on the other hand, often have glued edges, less meticulous stitching, or finishes that wear down more easily.
With these tips, you now have the keys to distinguish between a noble material and a synthetic one.
Explore, touch, observe, and smell: trusting your senses will always be your best guide. Because when it comes to genuine leather, the difference is noticeable.
And don't forget, the best way to ensure your bag is 100% authentic leather is to get one from our catalog. Visit our website!
