When it comes to fashion, trends are very fickle. In the words of Heidi Klum, one day they’re in and the next day they’re out. While it’s true that some trends leave almost as fast as they come, certain ones like fabrications or bag silhouettes never really go completely out of style, rather they fly under the radar and are findable but not everywhere.
Such is the case with patent leather, and I’m not talking embossed croc, or faux exotic shiny finishes on bags, I’m talking full on glossy and smooth patent leather purses. Recently, we’ve seen a resurgence in patent leather bags. They’ve been quietly flying under the radar for a fair but, but lately it seems that they’re just itching to make a return.
This season, many designers have added stunning patent pieces to their lineup. From Fendi and Gucci to more contemporary brands like By Far and Wandler, there are already a slew of options to choose from, and we bet there are plenty more to come. While colorful patent leathers are true showstoppers, for a more understated option patent neutrals like black or nude still makes a stunning statement. Do you love or would you rather pass on patent?
Valentino Garavani The Rockstud Spike Patent Leather Shoulder Bag ($2,295)
Saint Laurent Small Vicky Shoulder Bag ($1,990)
Marc Jacobs The Box 20 Patent Leather Camera Bag ($395)
Gucci Sylvie Small Patent Bag ($3,200)
Christian Louboutin Patent Leather Tote ($1,250)
Fendi Karligraphy Patent Shoulder Bag ($1,980)
By Far Patent Baguette Bag ($440)
Burberry Horse Ferry Patent Shoulder Bag ($1,290)
Wandler Corsa Patent Mini Bag ($280)
Danse Lente Phoebe Patent Bag ($495)
Patent leather bags are so pretty but too high maintenance for me – i.e. one scratch / light gouging and the bag is ruined. Which is why I never buy them even if I really like the look (e.g. the Vernis line of LV bags).
I have a turquoise jumbo classic Chanel that I LOVE and carry about 2x a year LOL. It’s the only patent bag I own and I probably wouldn’t buy another. Too shiny
Only 2 times a year? Does that still feel worth the investment for you? To be honest I don’t get enough use out of most of my bags…
I had the super strong feeling I NEED something patent so I recently purchased a light-rose/nude Dior New Lock pouchette. I am already looking forward to spring to take it with me anywhere 😀
Sounds like a beauty! Share a pic with us 🙂
Nothing new, but I already love this little cutie 😉
Your bag is really pretty! I might be tempted now to purchase patent leather! Thx for sharing!
A nice patent leather bag can be quite elegant, especially on vintage inspired bags.
I love patent. You can clean them with Windex and they are virtually indestructible. They have an undeserved reputation for fragility but they are not. I have an 8 year old a Chanel patent wallet that looks like I bought it yesterday. I love shiny exotics and am bored with matte finishes so I hope this trend carries over to those bags too.
I was just looking at patent leather bags, yesterday, and saw the Valentino (pictured) in blue. I’ve never owned a patent leather bag because I’ve read it is susceptible to color transfer and the bag cannot be repaired. And if a scratch gets on the bag it ruins it and over time the patent leather gets “sticky”. IDK if any of this is true, but if it is I hesitate to buy.
I adore patent because, hello, SHINY. But, I don’t own that many. Once something happens to them, that’s it.
Love! Always have, always will!
Does anyone own the type of Valentino bag shown? I’m obsessed with it now, but don’t know if the studs make the bag uncomfortable to wear?
I love my vintage Fendi baguette and Chanel square mini in patent. IMO, they aren’t high maintenance at all. I’m not the most gentle with my bags sometimes and both bags are in excellent shape. Just make sure to store them properly, so they don’t get sticky.