Welcome to the Latico Leathers Bag Glossary

Full-grain leather is the highest quality and most durable type of leather, cut from the very top layer of the hide and left in its most natural state. It contains the full grain pattern with tight, dense fibers that give leather its strength, character, and ability to develop a beautiful patina over time.

Top-grain leather is a high-quality type of leather that comes from the upper layer of the hide but is lightly sanded and finished to remove natural imperfections. It is smooth, flexible, and more uniform in appearance than full-grain leather, making it a popular choice for premium bags, accessories, and upholstery.

Vegetable-tanned leather is a type of leather processed using natural tannins found in plants, tree bark, and leaves instead of chemical agents. It is valued for its traditional craftsmanship, natural finish, and ability to develop a rich patina over time.

Suede is a type of leather made from the underside of an animal hide, known for its soft, velvety texture and matte finish. It is often used in fashion and accessories for its luxurious feel and relaxed look, although it is less durable than full-grain leather.

Chrome-tanned leather is leather that has been processed using chromium salts and other chemicals instead of natural tannins. This method is very harmful to the environment. It’s  cheaper and more widely used (90%+ of global leather).

Patina is the natural sheen, texture, and color change that develops on high-quality leather over time. It is a hallmark of premium full-grain leather and is considered a sign of authenticity, quality, and longevity.

Distressed leather is leather that has been intentionally treated to create a worn-in, vintage appearance from the start. It often features a matte or weathered finish, subtle variations in color, and a soft, broken-in feel, giving new products a timeless, well-loved look.

Sustainability in leather goods refers to creating products that are designed to last, use responsibly sourced natural materials, and minimize environmental impact over their lifetime. It focuses on quality, longevity, and mindful production choices that support people, the planet, and future generations.

YKK zippers are high-quality, precision-engineered zippers produced by the Japanese company YKK (Yoshida Kogyo Kabushikikaisha), the world’s leading zipper manufacturer. Known for their durability, reliability, and smooth function, they are widely regarded as the gold standard in bag and apparel hardware.

A crossbody bag is a type of handbag designed with a long strap that allows it to be worn diagonally across the body. This style is known for its hands-free convenience, everyday versatility, and secure fit, making it one of the most practical bag designs for modern life.

A shoulder bag is a handbag designed with one or two medium-length straps so it can be worn comfortably over the shoulder. This classic and versatile style is popular for everyday use because it offers easy access, timeless design, and ample storage.

A tote bag is a large, open-top handbag with parallel handles designed to be worn over the shoulder or carried by hand. Known for its spacious interior and versatile design, the tote is one of the most functional and timeless bag styles.

A wallet is a compact leather accessory designed to store and organize everyday essentials such as cash, cards, identification, and small personal items. It is one of the most functional and frequently used leather goods, combining practicality with craftsmanship and style.

A clutch is a small, handheld bag designed to carry essentials like a phone, cards, cash, and keys. Known for its minimalist design and elegant silhouette, a clutch is often used for evenings, special occasions, or situations where you want to travel light without carrying a larger handbag.

A sling bag is a compact and versatile bag designed to be worn across the body or over one shoulder with a single strap. Known for its hands-free convenience and lightweight design, it offers a stylish and practical way to carry daily essentials.

A convertible strap is a bag strap designed to adjust or transform in multiple ways, allowing a handbag to be worn in different styles such as crossbody, shoulder, or handheld. This feature adds versatility, comfort, and functionality to a bag, making it suitable for various occasions and preferences.

Drop length is the measurement from the top of a bag’s handle or strap to the highest point of the bag’s body when it is being carried. This measurement determines how a bag sits on your body and is one of the most important factors in comfort, style, and functionality.

Hardware refers to the metal components on a leather bag — including buckles, zippers, clasps, rings, and other functional details — that contribute to the bag’s structure, durability, and style. High-quality hardware enhances both the look and performance of a bag.

Lining is the inner layer of fabric or material sewn into the inside of a bag to protect the leather, improve structure, and provide a smooth, organized interior. It enhances durability, functionality, and the overall user experience.

Interior design in a leather bag refers to the layout, structure, and organization of the inside of the bag, including pockets, compartments, and functional details. Features like hidden compartments, key traps, and lipstick holders enhance usability, security, and everyday convenience.

The Carlos Falchi Independent Handbag Designer Award is a respected industry recognition presented to independent handbag designers for exceptional creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation. In 2020, Latico Leathers received this honor as the Iconoclast Recipient at the 14th Annual Independent Handbag Designer Awards.

“Family run since 1984” refers to Latico Leathers’ heritage as a family-owned and operated business based in New Jersey. For more than four decades, the company has remained dedicated to craftsmanship, authenticity, and quality, with the same family leading the brand from its founding to today.