Our Leathers

What makes Lappella leather special?

The soft leathers used to produce Lappella products are very high quality with a luxurious natural appeal. The skins are extremely tactile, butter soft but highly durable. Over time our soft leather will develop a natural patina with wear, which is part of the natural ageing process, making your leather accessory even more attractive. Although we select only the very best skins, leather is a natural material, and therefore the surface may contain some minor imperfections and colouring. This is part of the natural beauty of leather and makes each Lappella soft leather handbag and accessory unique. Leather is a by-product of the food industry—all the skins we use originate from cows farmed for meat, not for leather accessories! Skilled leather technicians transform hides into beautiful, tactile products, saving them from landfill. Many of our tanneries in India use natural processes—skins are dried in the open air using heat of the sun while being stretched to make them smooth and soft. Improvements have been made in chemical practices, toxicity testing, and water care to protect the environment.

What types of leather does Lappella offer?

The leathers we use include:
• Valentino: butter-soft, ultra-supple leather
• Veg Tan: two-tone appearance
• Croc Print: polished croc pattern on cowhide
• Hair On: printed with leopard or cow print

What tanning methods are used?

The tanning process determines the appearance and performance of the leather. For soft, supple leathers that hold shape and resist discolouration, we use chrome tanning. This method works well for Valentino and Croc leathers, producing deep, rich colours. For firmer, two‑tone finishes—especially tan-coloured accessories—we use vegetable tanning. This gives a more natural appearance that develops beautifully over time.

Is this eco-friendly leather?

Yes—leather is a by-product of the meat industry, and our skilled technicians give it a second life. We ensure tanneries follow ethical practices, reduce waste, and use safer chemical treatments. Many finishes rely on sun-drying and minimal synthetic processing to minimize environmental impact.