In our first edition of Know Your Leather, we take a closer look at the VACHETTA LEATHER trimmings found in your favorite luxury bags.
Vachetta leather is untreated Italian leather often used in luggage and handbag trimmings, like the one pictured above.
This type of leather is common on LOUIS VUITTON and COACH bags. When new, Vachetta is usually pale beige in color. The older it gets, this type of leather undergoes patination. Patination is when the leather darkens over time due to exposure to sunlight, weather and temperature changes, and oil and dirt in the hands of the user. Louis Vuitton’s Monogram Canvas, Damier Azure, Monogram Multicolore, Monogram Rubis, and some of their Vernis and Demin variants are candidates for patination. The color change can range from pale beige to deep brown. Patina can also be a proof that the bag is an original.
When properly taken care of, the patina can complement the color of the bag, and will also give the bag that vintage look and feel. However, for some bags like the Louis Vuitton Damier Azure, patination is best slowed down as many agree that the discoloration doesn’t go well with the look of the bag.
Got an LV that needs patination control? Come on over and visit any Doctor Leather store so we can assess your and do the recommended repair for your bag! After all, we’re the BEST LEATHER REPAIR AND RESTORATION SPECIALISTS in town!