Leather garments are more than just fashion pieces; they are timeless investments that embody sophistication and quality. To maintain their luxurious appeal, proper care is essential. Whether you own a handcrafted leather jacket or a tailored leather coat, following these steps will ensure your pieces last for years to come.
1. Understanding Your Leather Garment
At Raw by Raw, we select premium leathers to craft garments that embody quiet luxury and effortless style. This season, our collection features three distinct leather types:
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Nappa Leather: A lightweight Italian lambskin leather known for its soft and subtle texture. Nappa leather drapes beautifully, moulding to the wearer’s body while maintaining a consistent colour. It features a customised sealant for enhanced longevity and easy care, making it an ideal choice for luxurious, wearable pieces.
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Aged Effect Leather: Starting with the same base as Nappa leather, this type undergoes additional tanning processes, resulting in a slightly stiffer texture initially. With wear, it softens, revealing the natural grain and creating a vintage or "pull-up" effect. The subtle sheen and evolving character make it a sophisticated choice for those who appreciate a garment that tells a story. Available in Fern & Putty.
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Two-Tone Effect Leather: This leather also begins as Nappa but goes through an additional tanning process that includes light pigmentation. Over time, the two colours blend to create a unique two-tone effect, giving the leather a rich, textured look. Known as "spray-back" leather, it is slightly thicker than traditional Nappa but retains an exceptionally soft hand-feel. Available in Gun Metal.
2. Cleaning Your Leather Garments
Keeping your leather pieces clean not only enhances their look but also preserves the material's integrity.
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Regular Dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down your garment after each wear, especially around the collar and cuffs.
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Spot Cleaning: For light stains, use a damp cloth with a mild, leather-specific cleaner. Avoid oversaturating the leather, particularly with Aged Effect and Two-Tone leather types, as the coatings can be affected.
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Deep Cleaning: For tougher spots or oily marks, consider a professional leather cleaner to avoid damaging the finish, especially for garments made from Nappa leather.
Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges, or soaking your leather garment.
3. Conditioning and Moisturising
Leather can dry out over time, leading to cracks or stiffness. Conditioning keeps it supple and looking new.
- When to Condition: Typically every 6-12 months if required, especially when wearing or travelling with the garment regularly between changing climates.
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How to Apply: Use a small amount of leather conditioner, gently massaging it into the garment with a soft cloth. Allow it to absorb naturally.
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Best Practices: Always test on a small, hidden area first, especially with Aged Effect and Two-Tone leathers, to ensure the finish remains intact.
4. Storing Your Leather Garments
Proper storage is essential to prevent creasing, fading, and mildew.
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Hanging: Use padded or wide wooden hangers to maintain the garment’s shape.
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Breathable Covers: Avoid plastic garment bags. Opt for breathable cotton covers that allow air circulation.
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Climate Control: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and stiffness. The storage area requires sufficient air circulation, particularly important for Aged Effect and Two-Tone leathers.
5. Handling Rain and Moisture
Leather and water do not mix well, but it is sometimes unavoidable. If your leather garment gets wet:
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Blot, Don’t Rub: Gently blot excess moisture with a soft, dry cloth.
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Air Dry Naturally: Never use direct heat sources like a hairdryer.
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Condition After Drying: Apply a leather conditioner once fully dry to restore lost moisture.
For Two-Tone Effect Leather, be mindful that moisture may alter the appearance slightly as the pigments react.
6. Professional Care
If your leather garment needs a thorough cleaning or has significant stains, it is best to seek professional help. A trusted leather care specialist will know how to properly handle your specific leather type, preserving its unique qualities.
Taking care of your leather garments is essential to maintaining their luxurious appeal and durability. With regular cleaning, proper storage, and thoughtful conditioning, your leather pieces will continue to make a statement for years to come. At Raw by Raw, we pride ourselves on crafting pieces that not only look refined but are built to last.