We all have been looking for leather products that will last for decades. From leather handbags to leather shoes, there’s a wide variety of leathers available. Faux leather, also known as fake leather, is the most common type in the market today. However, people who are still looking for quality leather will go for patent leather.
That smooth and glossy patent leather is one of a kind. Its shiny appearance and physical advantages make it a perfect choice for someone who is looking for durable patent leather bags and shoes.
What is Patent Leather?
Leather that goes through a high-gloss coating process is known as patent leather. Its lustrous finishing and smooth texture have made it popular over centuries. Patent leather is used in shoes, handbags, and other accessories. This shiny leather is available not only in black but also in brown and blue.
Patent leather dates back to the 18th century. It was first invented by Seth Boyden in New Jersey. In old times, the process of creating patent leather required treating the leather with oil and other substances, but recently, synthetic materials, such as PVC, have been applied to make the leather waterproof and shiny.
Patent leather shoes and boots possess stylish looks with matching durability. They require almost no maintenance as they’re resistant to scratches. Their non-porous surface makes them easier to clean.
Back in time, patent leather was a symbol of wealth and grandeur but now it’s available in an affordable range too. Patent leather is still known for its stylish and sophisticated appearance.
Advantages of Patent Leather
1. Waterproof
Patent leather is perfect for people living in humid or rainy areas. Its manufacturing process makes it waterproof as multiple coats of varnish are applied.
2. Glossy Look
When comparing matte leather with patent leather, one always opts for a glossier look. Patent leather has a distinct glossy finish that makes any item look classy and stylish. It is used in formal footwear and fashion pieces.
3. Easy Maintenance
Patent leather possesses non-porous properties that make it easy to clean. Its smooth surface resists all types of scratches and scuffs. It’s also a practical choice for people who have no time to maintain their accessories. Patent leather won’t have any stains over it if something is spilled.
4. Durable
If you’re looking for a leather product, then go for a patent leather one because of its remarkable durability. The varnish coating applied strengthens the leather fibres even more, making it more durable. Patent leather handbags and shoes are the best choice for everyday use.
5. Versatile
Patent leather is known for its versatility in products such as handbags, shoes, belts, and other fashion wear. Nowadays, we can also find patent leather in furniture upholstery. Its eye-catching and sleek appearance allows it to be used in both formal and casual attire.
Disadvantages of Patent Leather
1. Stiff Leather
While other types of leather are usually softer, patent leather is stiff. A newly manufactured patent leather shoe will be less comfortable than a normal leather shoe.
2. Discoloration
The worst part of owning any patent leather accessory is its discolouration and degrading properties. Patent leather has a coating that is made up of plastics. Over the years, patent leather might lose its original color.
3. Environmentally Harmful
The production of patent leather causes harm to our environment since we use synthetic varnishes and other chemical treatments.
4. Less Color Options
Patent leather only looks nice in black or brown. Other colours in this type of leather may lose their depth and richness. Imagine yellow patent leather; only 1% of people will like it. Patent leather will also appear different in different lighting.
5. Peeling
The varnish coating is prone to peeling over time, especially if exposed to high levels of heat or sunshine. Your shoe’s coating will start cracking over time, making its appearance look bad.
6. Be Careful
While wearing patent leather boots, be careful around any sharp objects that can scratch the varnish coating. Avoid rubbing against hard and pointy surfaces.
How to Maintain Patent Leather?
Everything you own requires proper care and maintenance. The same goes for any patent leather accessory. Here are some tips and tricks to maintain the glossy appearance of a patent leather handbag or shoe.
Store Them in the Right Place
Most patent leather products are prone to discolouration when exposed to UV light or heat, so it’s better to keep them away from natural light. Although some patent leather shoes are now coated with a UV-resistant layer, it’s always better to keep them in a cupboard or a shoe rack.
Keeping it Glossy
The most visible quality of patent leather is its glossiness. Keeping that intact is not hard since many patent leather cleaners are available in the market now. Applying it with a microfiber cloth will enhance its shine and gloss.
Buffing Out Scuffs
If you are wearing your patent leather shoes every day, you might notice some scuffs cropping out of your shoe. These scuffs can be easily buffed out, so there is nothing to worry about. Applying some petroleum jelly on a microfiber cloth and gently rubbing it on the scuffs will help buff them. Leave the petroleum jelly for 20 minutes and then remove it with a dry cloth.
Cleaning Tips
Cleaning any type of patent leather whether shoes or bag is easy. Baby wipes can be used to clean if you don’t have time. Any mild liquid soap can also be used to clean patent leather. Use a microfiber cloth dipped in liquid soap and warm water. Rub it on one spot to check if it leaves any colour stains on the leather.
Difference Between Natural Leather and Patent Leather
We all know that natural leather is hard to find these days. Authentic leather is rare to find, and not many people can afford it. Patent leather is all shiny and glossy, whereas natural leather has a rugged and rich patina.
Patent leather is stiff and uncomfortable as compared to natural leather. Patent leather has a smooth texture, but natural leather has a rough texture. The environmental impact of producing patent leather goods is way more than that of natural leather products.
Affordability is a major problem with natural leather products as they are expensive and designer-made products. Patent leather has its unique qualities but some people still prefer to invest in traditional leather such as nubuck, suede, calfskin, and more. Natural leather is timeless as compared to patent leather.
If you’re looking for a small leather giftable item or other affordable gifts, check out these 30 cool gift ideas.
