Leather apparel has been the hot thing in the fashion industry for quite a long time; however, its popularity is shooting up at rocket speed nowadays. New trends in leather apparel are emerging. It is used both as inner wear as well as trendy outer wear assortments. Different forms of leather, such as crocodile, alligator, snakeskin and stingrays are admired. Technology has made it possible for leather apparel to be available in different textures and colors.


The texture of the leather apparel is referred to as its hand. The softer the hand of the apparel, the more expensive is the piece of clothing. The quality of the hide affects quality of the finished apparel to a great extent. Environmental conditions as well as the genetics of the animal affect the hide quality greatly. The skin of cows is comparatively thicker and heavier, due to which garments made from cow hide are relatively cheaper. The younger the animal, the softer would be its hide.


It was initially believed that leather apparel would be suitable only for use in the winters; however, latest technology has helped in the development of leather apparel that is lighter, so that wearing it in the summers is also possible. Now, leather apparel is available in different forms,so that it can be worn all year round. Leather apparel is available both for men and for women.


Different products are available in leather, such as hats,jackets, shoes, belts, pants and jewelry, which can be paired in different ways.Leather apparel can be paired with other clothes to create a unique and trendy look. A leather vest can be paired with a denim pant or a layered skirt, while a leather pant can be teamed with a plain cotton shirt. A leather jacket can also add a trendy look to an otherwise plain outfit.


Process of preparation


The process of preparation of leather apparel includes a number of steps. First of all, the hide is treated, after which it is processed in a tannery. These processes make the hide soft. At this stage, changes in the texture and color of the leather can be made if necessary. After this, the leather is cut and sewn, as is the case with fabric.


Qualities of leather apparel


  • Leather apparel is comparatively more expensive than other ordinary fabrics. However, it is worth the cost.


  • Leather apparel is very attractive and has a high degree of aesthetic appeal.


  • Leather apparel has a high degree of durability. It can be worn a number of times, and yet, it retains its smoothness.


  • It does not wrinkle easily and hence, can be worn for a long duration of time. This makes it ideal traveling wear.


  • Leather apparel is usually water proof as well as wind proof, thus making it ideal for use for certain purposes such as biking.


  • Good leather apparel stretches over the body once worn. It is this quality of leather which provides a good fit.


  • It is breathable and hence, comfortable in wearing for the user.



Caring for leather apparel


Leather apparel requires proper care. If not taken care of in the proper manner, it tends to lose its sketchiness and softness. When properly maintained, leather apparel can retain its appeal for a very long period of time. Leather apparel also requires proper storage.


  • To maintain the quality of leather apparel, hangers should be used to store them. As far as possible, they should not be stored in plastic bags, as this causes dryness of the leather.


  • Leather apparel should not be exposed directly to sunlight as this leads to damage. Similarly, spraying perfume directly on it also damages the quality.


  • If a leather garment is damp, it is best to allow it to dry naturally.


  • A good quality cleaner should be used to clean leather apparel. The cleaner should not take away the natural smoothness of the leather. Occasionally, a conditioner can be used on the garment to bring back suppleness.


Conclusion


In spite of agitation by animal rights activists, leather apparel has always been a hot favorite in the fashion industry. However, its popularity has increased a lot recently. Leather apparel is for every one. If they are chosen properly and maintained well, they can last almost a life time.



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