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This Sunday 18th June, plan a day that’s all about dad – Find Out More

Get your style set for the summer ahead with our holiday boutique – Discover


This Sunday 18th June, plan a day that’s all about dad – Find Out More

Get your style set for the summer ahead with our holiday boutique – Discover


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Leather & Suede

Among the few materials that can truly improve with age, leather and suede have long held ‘capsule wardrobe’ status. With the right at-home care and specialist attention courtesy of The Restory, prized leather accessories and clothing will last a lifetime.

How to Wash
How to Wash Leather & Suede

Founder and CEO of luxury aftercare service The Restory, Vanessa Jacobs is an expert in the upkeep of leather bags, shoes, jackets and more. According to her rulebook, time is of the essence when it comes to sudden stains. “Treat these as soon as they appear with a damp, not wet, cloth.” One size doesn’t fit all, however, as Vanessa explains: “Avoid this on suede, nubuck, and aniline, untreated or ‘open’ leathers – these are leathers that have been coloured with very thin dyes, so the natural leather texture or grain is still present.” You can reduce the likelihood of stains, starting with the rest of your wardrobe. “As a general rule of thumb, avoid wearing light-coloured leathers, including suede and patent, with dark clothes or denim,” says Vanessa. This will prevent stains appearing through colour transfer.

Belstaff Black Leather Jacket
How to Care for Leather & Suede

Sunlight is no friend to leather. When storing leather and suede items, keep them away from natural light as much as possible to prevent fading and colour damage. Leather bags can lose their shape when not in use – to avoid this, The Restory founder and CEO Vanessa Jacobs recommends stuffing them. “Pillows, dust bags, or anything clean and dry” fits the bill. Speaking of dust bags, it’s worth investing if you haven’t already – they’re invaluable in the protection of prized shoes and accessories. Take love-worn leather and suede items to be serviced by The Restory at Harrods. Remember, if you treat these materials well, they will remain in your rotation for years to come.

Clothes Care

Luxury is for life – if cared for properly. Knowing how to store investment pieces such as cashmere and silk, or understanding how to wash denim to preserve its shape, are valuable lessons to learn as you grow your wardrobe.

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