Vegan Leather vs Genuine Leather Bags: Differences, Care & Which to Buy

We make our handbags in both vegan leather and genuine leather, so we get this question daily: which one should you buy? Here is an honest comparison based on the materials we actually use.

Look and feel

Modern vegan leather (PU) achieves a smooth, matte, structured finish — our The Slouchy Medium and Dome 25 Satchel are examples. Genuine leather shows natural grain variation and develops a patina over time: our Vertical Soft Tote in top-grain calfskin is unlined specifically to showcase the authentic suede reverse of the hide.

Durability and aging

Genuine leather typically lasts longer and ages with character — the fine-grained calfskin of our Slouchy Medium Genuine Leather edition is designed to soften and develop a unique surface over years. Vegan leather stays consistent in appearance but does not develop patina.

Care

Vegan leather: wipe with a soft, slightly damp cloth; avoid prolonged direct sunlight and heat. Genuine leather: keep dry, condition occasionally with a leather conditioner, and store stuffed in a dust bag to hold its shape. Suede-finish vegan bags like the Belted 10 Suede Edition should be brushed gently and kept away from moisture.

Price and ethics

Vegan lines are more affordable and animal-free. Genuine leather is an investment piece with a longer lifespan. We label every product's material clearly on its page so you can decide with facts.

Same design, two materials

Several of our silhouettes come in both: the Vertical Soft Tote is available in vegan leather and genuine calfskin, and The Slouchy Medium comes in vegan and genuine leather editions — a direct way to compare the two materials on an identical design.

FAQ

Is vegan leather waterproof?

PU vegan leather is water-resistant on the surface, but seams and linings are not sealed. Wipe off moisture promptly rather than treating any bag as waterproof.

Does genuine leather need special care?

Occasional conditioning, keeping it dry, and storing it stuffed in a dust bag are enough for most bags. Full-grain and top-grain leathers become softer and richer with use.

Which is better for everyday use?

If you want low maintenance and lower cost, vegan leather. If you want a bag that ages and lasts for years, genuine leather. Both share the same structured designs in our collection.