Choosing the right bag is more than just a style decision - it's about functionality, durability and quality. With leather in particular, the question arises as to which material offers the best companion for everyday wear or special occasions. Suede and full-grain leather are two of the best-known types of leather that play a central role in the world of fashion and accessories. But what characteristics do they have and which leather is better suited to your next bag?
Whether for leisure, work or special occasions - the requirements for a bag vary depending on the occasion. While suede is appreciated for its soft feel and natural, rough look, full-grain leather stands for robustness and timeless elegance. Both types of leather have their advantages, but which one really suits your needs?
In this article, we will look at the differences between suede and full grain leather in detail and find out which material is best suited for different types of bags. Whether it's suitability for everyday use, ease of care or style preference, this comparison will help you make the best decision for your next leather bag.
Table of contents
- What is suede?
- What is full-grain leather?
- Suede vs. full-grain leather
- Occasions for suede
- When full-grain leather is the best choice
- Sustainability in comparison
- The right care
- Conclusion
What is suede? Properties and characteristics
Suede is one of the oldest forms of leather processing and is traditionally obtained from the underside of the animal hide. Unlike other types of leather, where the grain side is retained, this is removed from suede, giving it its characteristic soft and velvety surface. Originally, suede was often made from deer or roe deer leather, but today it is mainly the skin of goats, pigs or cattle that is used.
The production of suede requires special techniques. The hide is specially tanned to create a rough yet supple texture. The leather remains breathable, making it a particularly comfortable material for clothing and accessories. It is flexible and adapts to use over time, making it softer and more pleasant to handle.
Visually, suede is particularly striking due to its matt, velvety surface, which gives it a natural, informal look. This feel and look make suede very popular, especially for casual bags. It radiates warmth and naturalness and can be perfectly integrated into a relaxed everyday look.
The strengths of suede include its flexibility and softness. It is comfortable to wear, has a luxurious feel and at the same time offers a certain robustness when cared for properly. Suede is particularly suitable for everyday wear as it is light and comfortable. However, it is also susceptible to stains and moisture, which may make it less practical in certain situations, such as rainy weather.
When it comes to where suede is shown to its best advantage, it is particularly popular in accessories and fashion for leisure and everyday wear. Suede bags convey a relaxed, natural style and go perfectly with casual outfits. They are ideal for relaxed occasions, such as weekend outings or a daily stroll through town.
What is full-grain leather? A sign of quality
Full-grain leather is considered the highest quality leather on the market, and for good reason. The term "full-grain leather" refers to the top layer of the animal hide, the so-called grain layer, which remains unchanged and is only tanned to make it durable. In contrast to other types of leather where the surface is processed or sanded, the natural structure and grain of full-grain leather is completely preserved. The result is a leather that is not only particularly robust, but also uniquely beautiful, as each hide has its own small irregularities and character traits.
What makes full-grain leather so special is its unadulterated quality. As the grain layer is not removed, this leather retains its natural strength and is particularly resistant to wear and tear. At the same time, it has an impressive ability to age - instead of wearing away, it develops a patina over the years, giving the leather even more character and depth. This combination of durability and aesthetic development makes full-grain leather an excellent choice for bags that will be used for many years.
The outstanding properties of full-grain leather include its strength and natural look. It feels firm yet comfortable in the hand, is hard-wearing and easy to care for. It is also breathable and adapts to individual use over time. These natural advantages make it the ideal choice for high-quality bags that need to be both robust and stylish.
A good example of the use of full-grain leather are the high-quality bags from BONAVENTURA which are made from either Fjord or Noblessa leather. Fjord leather is shrunken, grained calfskin that stands out with its distinctive structure and is particularly hard-wearing. Noblessa leather, on the other hand, is embossed and has a fine cross grain that gives it an elegant, smooth look. Both types of leather combine the quality and robustness of full-grain leather with unique textures that give each bag an individual touch.
Suede vs. full-grain leather: a direct comparison
The comparison between suede and full-grain leather shows impressively how different the two materials are in terms of their look, feel and durability. Each leather has its own advantages, which become apparent depending on personal requirements and the intended use of the bag.
Optics
Suede impresses with its matt, soft surface, which conveys a natural and casual look. It gives every bag a rustic charm and goes particularly well with casual outfits. Its slightly velvety feel makes suede look "warmer" and more organic.
Full-grain leather, on the other hand, especially in the Fjord leather The deep textured surface of this leather is impressive. Fjord leather, as used in the Emma Bag Medium 33 is characterized by its distinctive, grained structure. This shrink leather gives bags a robust yet stylish appearance. It is ideal for those who value durability and a high-quality look.
Haptics
As far as the feel is concerned, the differences are also clearly noticeable. Suede is soft and velvety to the touch and its flexibility makes it comfortable to wear. It clings well to the hand over time and gives the bag a relaxed feel.
Full-grain leather, especially fjord leather, on the other hand, has a firmer, more structured feel. Fjord leather has a robust and hard-wearing appearance due to its deep grain. It feels high-quality and durable, which makes it particularly suitable for everyday use. The structure ensures that the leather resists scratches and wear well, while remaining soft and supple.
Longevity
When it comes to durability, full-grain leather has a clear advantage. Its unpolished grain layer makes it extremely resistant to wear and tear. With the right care, it can retain its quality for many years and becomes even more beautiful through the development of a natural patina.
Although suede is also durable, it is more sensitive to external influences such as dirt and moisture. It requires more care to maintain its appearance and should be protected from moisture to avoid unsightly stains.
Care
The care of suede requires special attention. Regular impregnation protects the material from moisture and dirt. Stains are difficult to remove, which is why gentle cleaning and protection from external influences are essential.
Full-grain leather, on the other hand, is easier to care for. An occasional treatment with leather grease or a special leather cream is often enough to keep the bag in top condition. Fjord leather, due to its coarse structure, is particularly resistant to scratches and wear.
Costs
Suede and full-grain leather often differ in price. Full-grain leather is generally more expensive due to the more complex processing and the high-quality material properties. However, it is worth the investment as it is more durable and retains its elegant appearance even with intensive use.
Suede, on the other hand, is generally a little more affordable, making it an attractive option for those who prefer a bag with a relaxed everyday look.
For which occasions is suede best suited?
Suede bags are the perfect companion for a relaxed, stylish everyday look. Thanks to their soft, matt surface and natural look, they blend seamlessly into casual outfits and add a touch of nonchalance. Suede is particularly effective in casual wear, as it conveys a relaxed and informal look that is ideal for laid-back occasions.
Whether you're strolling around town, meeting up with friends or on a weekend getaway, suede bags are the perfect choice when it comes to combining style and comfort. Their flexible structure and pleasant feel make them comfortable to carry and go with a variety of casual clothing styles, such as jeans, sweaters or summer dresses.
Another advantage of suede is its adaptability to different situations. For traveling or day trips, a suede bag offers enough space and comfort to store all your essentials without looking heavy or bulky. They can be casually slung over the shoulder or carried elegantly in the hand, making them a versatile accessory for everyday use.
When it comes to color choices, suede bags often feature warm, earthy tones such as brown, beige or grey, which are perfect for the relaxed occasions they are made for. These colors harmonize particularly well with natural materials and create a cohesive look.
The combination of style and functionality makes suede a popular material for bags that can be used both in everyday life and for leisure activities.
When is full-grain leather the best choice?
Full-grain leather is the perfect choice when it comes to elegance, professionalism and durability. With its natural texture and unadulterated quality, it exudes a timeless class that is particularly sought after in formal and business environments. A full-grain leather bag perfectly complements a business outfit and conveys an impression of style and professionalism.
Especially for important business appointments, conferences or official events, a bag made of high-quality full-grain leather underlines the seriousness of the wearer. The elegant structure of the leather, as seen in the Fjord leather gives the bag a subtle but impressive presence. The fine grain of the leather contributes to a look that is characterized by restraint and sophistication.
Another major advantage of full-grain leather is its durability. While many materials show signs of wear after a while, full-grain leather develops a patina full of character over the years, which only makes it more attractive. This makes it a loyal companion that lasts for many years and still looks classy even after frequent use. Bags made from full-grain leather are therefore a long-term investment that pays off.
An excellent example of a bag that is particularly suitable for formal occasions is the Elegant Chiara hobo bag . This bag combines stylish elegance with the sturdiness and durability of full-grain leather, making it the ideal choice for business and upscale occasions. With its classic shape and high-quality finish, it fits perfectly with a formal look while being durable enough to withstand everyday wear and tear.
Sustainability and environmental awareness: How do suede and full-grain leather compare?
Sustainability is playing an increasingly important role in the choice of materials, especially for leather products. Both suede and full-grain leather have advantages and disadvantages in terms of their environmental footprint, and it is important to consider these factors when making purchasing decisions.
Production and environmental factors for suede
Suede is made from the underside of animal skin, which means that it is often used as a by-product of meat production. This ensures that there is less waste, as the entire hide of the animal is utilized. However, processing suede requires special tanning processes, some of which contain chemicals such as chromium, which can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly. Some manufacturers are now using vegetable tanning methods to reduce the environmental impact, which should be taken into account when purchasing.
Another important point in the sustainability of suede is its care and durability. As it is more sensitive to external influences such as moisture, it tends to wear out more quickly if it is not properly cared for. This can lead to more frequent replacement of products, which increases the environmental impact.
Full-grain leather and its long service life as a sustainable investment
Full-grain leather, on the other hand, scores points for its exceptional durability. As it consists of the robust grain layer of the animal hide, it lasts a particularly long time and develops an attractive patina over the years. This characteristic makes it a sustainable choice, as full-grain leather products often last for many years without needing to be replaced. It therefore helps to reduce consumption and waste.
In addition, many manufacturers of full-grain leather attach great importance to environmentally friendly tanning processes. Vegetable-tanned leather is an increasingly popular alternative to conventional tanning methods. This helps to reduce the environmental impact of chemicals while producing durable, high-quality products.
Which materials are more environmentally friendly and what customers should look out for
When deciding between suede and full-grain leather, the longevity of the product should always be taken into account. Full grain leather is often the more sustainable choice as its robustness and longevity have a positive impact on the ecological footprint in the long term. However, if suede is preferred, it is advisable to look for manufacturers that use vegetable tanning methods and rely on chemical-free processes.
Ultimately, the decision lies with the customer's individual priorities. For those looking for a bag that is not only stylish, but also durable and sustainable, full-grain leather is the better choice. However, suede can be an environmentally friendly option if it is carefully manufactured and cared for.
Discover more handbags made from high-quality full-grain leather >
The right care: how to make your leather products last longer
Proper care is essential to ensure that your leather products retain their beauty and quality for many years to come. Both suede and full-grain leather require special treatments to protect them from everyday challenges such as moisture, dirt and wear and tear.
Care instructions for suede
Suede is particularly sensitive to external influences such as moisture and dirt. It should therefore be impregnated regularly to protect it from moisture and stains. A special waterproofing spray for suede can help to make the surface water-repellent. It is advisable to apply the spray evenly to the entire bag and to repeat this process regularly, especially after wearing it in damp weather.
If soiling does occur, it should be gently removed with a soft brush. It is important to avoid using harsh cleaning agents, as these could damage the delicate material. Special suede erasers or brushes are particularly helpful for removing minor stains without damaging the material.
Care instructions for full-grain leather
Full-grain leather, especially the high-quality Fjord leather, is more robust and less susceptible to dirt and moisture than suede. Nevertheless, this material also requires regular care to ensure its longevity. Occasional treatment with leather grease or leather cream helps to keep the leather supple and protect it from drying out. These care products penetrate deep into the leather and seal it so that it is better protected against wear and tear.
For full-grain leather such as that in the Emma Bag Medium 33 - Elegant Fjord calfskin bag When using Fjord leather, it is important to avoid scratches and signs of wear through regular care. As Fjord leather has a deeply textured surface, care products can be easily absorbed and provide optimum protection for the leather.
The right storage location
Whether suede or full-grain leather, storage plays a crucial role in the longevity of your bag. It is advisable to store leather products in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight, which could fade the leather. Suede bags should also be stuffed with filling material (e.g. tissue paper) to retain their shape. A breathable cotton bag also protects the bag from dust and scratches, while the leather can continue to breathe.
With these care instructions, your bags can retain their original shine and quality even after years, so that they always look like new.
Conclusion: Which type of leather suits you better?
Suede and full-grain leather both have their unique advantages and fulfill different requirements in terms of style, durability and care. Suede leather stands out for its soft, natural look and flexibility, making it ideal for casual occasions and everyday wear. It goes perfectly with relaxed outfits and conveys a warm, organic style that can be combined in a variety of ways.
Full-grain leather, on the other hand, impresses with its robust structure and timeless elegance. It is the perfect choice for formal and professional environments in particular, as it is not only stylish but also extremely durable. With the right care, it develops a characteristic patina over time, which further emphasizes its beauty. For those looking for a long-term investment, full-grain leather is the better choice, especially for bags that will be used often and for years to come.
The decision between suede and full-grain leather therefore depends heavily on individual needs. If you are looking for a bag for everyday use and casual occasions that is flexible and soft, then suede is the right choice. If, on the other hand, you are looking for durability, elegance and a stylish look, a bag made of full-grain leather will give you long-lasting pleasure.
In any case, both materials are high-quality options that impress with their natural origin and craftsmanship. Ultimately, it depends on how and where you want to use the bag - and which style suits you best.
