The history of leather

Let's talk about the history of leather

While it is often said that fashion moves in cycles, some trends remain constant. Leather is one such enduring wardrobe staple

Humans have worn leather since prehistoric times, dating back as far as 5000 BCE. Originally valued for its durability, protection, and ability to withstand the elements, leather served as a practical means of survival. Over time, however, it evolved into a material associated not only with function, but with craftsmanship and status. In ancient civilisations, depictions of leather sandals, bags, belts, and garments adorn the walls of temples and monuments across the world. During the medieval period, leather experienced a resurgence, combining its protective qualities with growing aesthetic appeal. It became a marker of luxury and prestige, a sentiment that still carries through to today

The early industrial era brought significant advancements in leather processing, including the development of patent leather, known for its distinctive glossy finish and water-resistant qualities. As manufacturing improved, leather became more accessible and its popularity grew. By the 20th century, the fashion landscape was dominated by the leather jacket in its many forms. During this period, leather came to symbolise rebellion, freedom, counterculture, and individuality

However, as demand for leather continued to grow, so too did concerns around animal welfare and environmental impact. In response, manufacturers developed the first synthetic leathers in the 1920s. Often referred to as “pleather,” these fabrics offered a similar look and feel to traditional leather and were quickly embraced as a modern, vegan-friendly solution

While synthetic leather was widely marketed as a more ethical and environmentally friendly alternative, it became clear that many of these materials were simply plastic-based substitutes with significant environmental drawbacks

As awareness of these impacts has grown, the search for better alternatives has accelerated. Today, a new generation of bio-based materials is entering the market, offering innovative solutions that aim to combine the best qualities of traditional leather with improved environmental performance. Derived from renewable resources and designed to be biodegradable or significantly less polluting, these materials provide the look, feel, and durability of leather without relying on plastics or animal hides

At the same time, traditional leather itself continues to evolve. Advances in processing and finishing techniques have produced softer, more refined materials, moving leather away from its historically rugged image

From a natural material born of necessity, to plastic-based substitutes that promised progress but fell short, and now to the emergence of bio-based innovations, the story of leather is one of constant reinvention. As fashion evolves, so does the material at its centre, moving from good, to bad, and now towards something better