f you were too busy sightseeing while you were in Italy, don’t worry! As once you arrive back at Fiumicino Airport you can choose from a wide array of fashion brands selling Made in Italy leather handbags, so you have one last chance to pick up that stunning Italian leather purse. Choose from top fashion brands such as Bottega Veneta, for classic handcrafted leather goods or Dolce&Gabbana, for timeless Italian luxury.  If you want an iconic Italian leather handbag with ‘bags’ of style then pay a visit to Fendi, Gucci, or Valentino, for a wide variety handbags in different styles and colours. Don’t forget the Personal Shopper Service available at Fiumicino airport. Here the personal shoppers will guide and help you with your purchase. Just go to the Personal Shopper Desk in the Terminal 3 Tax Free Mall or book via WhatsApp, WeChat or KaKaoTalk.

Italian leather handbags are not just about the quality of the materials used, or even the exquisite craftsmanship, they represent the passion for quality, tradition and elegance that runs through everything that is quintessential to Italian life. When you purchase an Italian leather handbag you are also purchasing timeless style and elegance.

Italian leather Handbags: tradition and craftsmanship

The art of leather craftsmanship dates back to Ancient Rome when Florence became the capital of artisanal leather workshops. Since then, Italy has maintained its status as one of the world’s best producers of fine leather goods, in particular leather handbags. Most Italian cities had their own quarter dedicated to bag makers (Via dei Borsai), most famously found in Venice, Pisa, and Siena and were in demand within high society and the Parisian court. It’s thanks to the skilled work of the artisans, who have used the same tanning and manufacturing methods for centuries, that Italian leather goods have become synonymous with quality and elegance all over the world. From the renowned fashion houses to historic leather workshops this article will explore the rich history of Italian leather handbags.

How to make an Italian leather handbag

To create an Italian leather handbag, firstly, the careful selection of Italian leather, which is then cut and shaped into the desired design with the expertise of tailors. The Italian leather handbags from Italy can either be stitched by hand or by machinery to create the initial structure. Handstitched methods are often passed down through the generations and this historic artistry is what makes the handbag so special. Once the initial shape is made, the details are then added, such as pockets, buttons, appliques, and braids. The handbag making process is a painstaking one that requires a high level of skill to create a bag of the utmost quality.

Historic workshops and the methods used for Italian leather

The skins that were primarily used were cow and buffalo, as well as calf skin and chamois and still are to this day. Tanneries began to appear all over Italy in the Middle Ages, especially in Tuscany, where the abundance of oak and chestnut trees provided the tannins needed. What makes Italian leather stand out from others is that they still use the ancient tanning method known as vegetable tanning. This natural process gives a unique softness to the leather as well as enabling it to age beautifully.  Over the centuries the techniques were honed to perfection., Today these same techniques are honoured, although they are now blended to keep up with high demand. For leather to be considered Italian made the tanning process must have been done within the country. These traditions are kept alive today with various leather handbag making schools and academies all over the country, such as the famed Scuola del Cuoio in Florence.

Protecting the secrets of the trade

As Florence gained fame for its quality leather goods, among other artisan products, the leather workers guild was established (Arte dei Cuoiai) in 1282 to protect the secrets of the trade and maintain the highest quality throughout Italy’s leather products.

How to care for your Italian leather handbag

Italian leather handbags are renowned for being incredibly durable and stain resistant. This is, in part, due to the quality of the skins used; the natural tanning process and the methods for treating the bag once completed. However, to further protect your precious purchase, it’s important to take care of it. Clean with a damp cloth and make sure to store out of direct sun light and stuff with the packing paper it came in to keep the shape of the bag, if you are planning on storing for a while. There is no need to treat the bag with any kind of chemical or oil unless advised by the manufacturer.

The best of the best: Italian leather handbag brands

Italy is full of incredible fashion houses and workshops that specialise in creating luxurious pieces, whether you are looking for a timeless classic or a modern masterpiece, Italian fashion brands have the answer. Let’s have a look at some of them:

• Tramontano have been creating leather bags of all kinds including luggage since 1865 in Naples, pick up an Italian Leather satchel or a classic Italian leather handbag.
• Rodo are known for luxurious Italian leather purses and clutches that combine masterful artistry with modern beauty.
• Miu Miu are synonymous with chic, modern designs.

• Furla, create handbags for everyday use and that will last a lifetime.

• Brunello Cuccinelli, artisanal excellence and attention to detail in the making of exquisite leather handbags.

New designers and the future of Italian leather handbags

While maintaining the quality and essence of what make Italian leather handbags so famous, there are some emerging designers who are forever innovating the scene. Designers such as Lara Bellini, creates handbags using traditional methods combined with modern functionality. Alkeme Atelier, similarly, focus on vegan leather handbags and are pioneers in sustainable fashion that use traditional methods yet lean towards the need for more sustainable options on the market.

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