August 16, 2017 3 min read
It's important to do some research before buying anything, but the price tag and needs that come along with exotic leather pieces mean you'll want to take a bit of extra time before reaching for your credit card. Here's what you need to know:
If you're going to buy an exotic leather bag, it's good to know that you're actually making an investment. Some luxury bags hold their value more than others, and this is true of exotic leather pieces. As long as you are able to keep them in good condition, these purses are some of the most highly sought-after and coveted pieces, helping to keep their prices up as the years go on.
We also think of these bags as investment pieces because their price tag is typically much higher than more traditional leather goods. As an extreme example, take the Hermes white Himalayan Crocodile Birkin bag. We know that Birkin bags already come with a hefty price tag, but it's safe to say that spending over $300,000 on a bag is a little out of the ordinary. Nevertheless, you can expect to spend a few hundreds to thousands more on the exotic leather varieties of some of your favorite bags.
We all love taking care of our luxury goods, but exotic leather purses do require more care than you'd think. Leather itself is a very sturdy material that can withstand years of wear. Though some, like lambskin, may be more delicate, you'll want to file "exotic leather" under that category as well. Though looking at snakeskin, alligator and crocodile may evoke thoughts of sturdiness and resilience after the animals the leather comes from, these materials can actually be quite delicate and their scales prone to separating over time
If your bag has pronounced scales, as with python bags, you'll want to clean in the direction of the scales—not against—and avoid any situations where your bag is exposed to a lot of direct sunlight, humidity, or liquid as all of these factors can contribute to lifting.
Because heat and sunlight are damaging to exotic leathers, storing them properly is key. We've talked about good storage habits for your luxury bags in prior blog posts, but it's always important to note that adequate stuffing and tonal storage bags are what you should be reaching for.
This may come as a big surprise to many people, but not all exotic leathers are waterproof! If you're looking into reptilian varieties of exotic leathers, it's important to know just exactly how resilient your bag is. Crocodile, for example, isn't waterproof so, as always, it's best to keep them away from as much exposure to the elements as possible! In cases where you are purchasing ostrich leather, you'll also want to avoid contact with water as you would with your more traditional leather items.
Always a great experience, I will never buy from any consignment store except here. Fast shipping.
Excellent experience from start to finish. My item was as described and I am 100% satisfied I will definitely be back again.
Bought a pair of like new sunglasses and couldn’t be happier. They came with everything (even the retail price sticker from the boutique). What a great find!
Love my recent purchase ( LV watercolor wallet). It’s brand new and was as described. The item was shipped fast with zero issues. Everything I’ve purchased from Couture USA has been excellent.
Love the girls Amazing classy
A plethora of fabulous designer items to ponder over, all in excellent condition! selection is incredible! The sales staff know the luxury market! Their suggestions were spot on! I Loved that they helped me decide, were engaging, and even looked up the details of my handbag. My purchase was a unique LV designer tote! I watched a video of the designer walking it down the runway! Enchanting experience! Affordable luxury at a great price!
I had a great experience. So much to choose from.
As a Collector of Chanel, Vuitton and Hermes for the past 30 years, I must admit--I am brought to my knees by the array of bags/belts/shoes/baubles featured (and authenticated) by this store weekly. I am fortunate (my husband questions this....) enough to live within driving distance...(and how I missed discovering this treasure trove for so many years blows my mind and can truly say it is a Paradise. I have seen their online selection---but if you are serious about these luxe labels....VISIT the Boutique. It iis almost a Destination to plan your holiday around! (Let the family drive to Busch Gardens....). Alina, Amber, Catherine.....the owner and staff know their stuff (a rarity these days) and can tell you the provenance of the items you select. Seriously Amazing and kaleidoscopic inventory. Thanks again for whichever of my recent 'finds' I am reviewing: hard to keep track because I seem to have a CoutureUSA 'Habit' FIVE STARS and Applause
Very happy with my wallet purchase. It arrived quickly and was well packaged.
I can thank you enough for Alina s excellent customer service !
I love shopping with couture USA !
The items are very good condition 💜💜
Love this shop! Great luxury items.
My husband put me on probation because Couture has so many fantastic items. All have been excellent quality and shipped nicely. It is nice to browse in person when I’m in town but also have shipping option.
I’ve purchased many high end Hermes items here and am always pleased when it arrives as described and very timely.
Wonderful store . Order came on time! Excellent product very good condition I highly recommend Couture in Tampa And excellent staff❤️
My bag is the perfect size for a night out. I love it.
Sign up now for exclusive pre-sale alert before anyone else!
+30 OFF your first purchase of $300 or more
YOU HAVE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WAITING IN YOUR CART!
BUY NOW BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE!
VIEW CART