The Best Genuine Leather Purses
A great outfit requires an equally great purse to tie it all together. And let's face it — the quest for the perfect purse can be more challenging than expected. There's a lot to consider, such as color, shape, size, weight, storage compartments, leather texture, and hardware quality, just to name a few. Not to mention, genuine leather bags come at a wide range of price points. Simply put, searching for the right purse can feel downright overwhelming. Lucky for you, we've researched and compiled some of the best genuine leather purses on the market.
Kattee Shoulder Bag
Kattee knocks it out of the park with this well-crafted beauty. It’s made of cowhide leather in a pretty sienna brown that’s paired with shiny golden hardware. This versatile design works well with both casual and dressy outfits. In terms of convenience, there are a plethora of compartments to hold everything from your water bottle to your gadgets and cosmetics.
Pros:
- Anti-scratch rivets on the bottom of the bag protect the leather from damage
- Holds its shape even when it’s empty
- Extra large size can fit a 13″ laptop, so you don’t need a separate laptop bag
Cons:
- Weighs 2.2 pounds, so it’s sturdy, but it may feel heavy during long walks or commutes
Bostanten Shoulder Bag
This shoulder bag by Bostanten looks deceivingly simple, but once you open it up, there’s a highly functional organizational system complete with a removable pouch. The included pouch has a cell phone pocket, ID card slot, and zip pocket. In the purse’s main compartment, there are two more slip pockets and external magnetic buckle pockets on both the front and back. If you’re a fan of an organized purse (and really, who isn’t?), this one is a stellar choice.
Pros:
- Colorblocked leather design is unique yet sophisticated
- Comes with two shoulder straps: one leather and the other a woven fabric
- Closes with a strong magnetic buckle to secure belongings
Cons:
- Included shoulder straps are not adjustable in length
Estalon Adjustable Shoulder Bag
When it comes to comfort, nothing beats a trustworthy crossbody bag. This item by Estalon weighs only 1.35 pounds, making it a great option for those with back or shoulder pain. The shoulder strap can be adjusted from 20″ all the way to 26″, so you can wear it at the length that works for you. Not only is this bag comfortable, but it’s also made with high-quality leather. The beautiful brown leather will get even softer over time.
Pros:
- Has 3 exterior compartments for easy access to your keys or wallet
- Top of the bag zips shut for maximum security
- Affordable without sacrificing quality
Cons:
- Measuring 11.25″ x 11″ x 2″, it’s a smaller purse that can’t fit large tablets or laptops
S-Zone Convertible Shoulder Bag
Twice as Stylish
Backpacks have been one of the most in-vogue ways of accessorizing in recent times, but sometimes a shoulder bag is more fitting. Thanks to S-Zone’s convertible innovation, you can have both. The adjustable backpack straps are attached securely to the back of the bag. To transform your backpack into a shoulder bag, all you have to do is attach the shoulder strap with a clasp on each side. Each clasp is made of durable silver hardware, meaning it’ll stand the test of time, even with regular use.
Pros:
- Touts an anti-theft design with a hidden main opening on the back of the bag, and a specially concealed cellphone pocket
- Comes with specific pockets for your lipsticks, chargers, and water bottle
- Lined with luxurious and soft satin
Cons:
- Backpack straps are adjustable but not removable, so they will be slightly visible when you use it as a shoulder bag
Over Earth Hobo Crossbody Purse
Why blend in when you can stand out? In a sea of browns, blacks, and greys, this red purse by Over Earth shines as the perfect choice for risk-taking fashionistas. If, on the other hand, you’re typically more conservative with color, this could also be a great way to flirt with a more daring look — just throw it over your shoulder to balance out a neutral outfit. It comes in a slouchy hobo silhouette and can be used as both a shoulder and crossbody bag.
Pros:
- Small zippered side pockets make your keys and cell phone extra accessible
- Two circular metal accents add a unique touch
- Unlike other purses, the main compartment is divided into two large zippered compartments for increased organization
Cons:
- Inside of the large strap is made with a synthetic material, which may not be as durable as a pure leather strap
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I choose a genuine leather purse over a faux leather purse?
Genuine leather is typically more expensive than faux leather, but it can be well worth the price. Real leather is soft, flexible, and elastic, while faux leather is rougher. In fact, real leather will only get softer with age. Another reason we recommend genuine leather is because of its uniqueness. Each genuine leather purse has a distinctive grain and texture because each leather hide is different.
What’s the best way to take care of a genuine leather purse?
Our purses go everywhere with us, and over time, grime can build up. Cleaning the leather regularly is important, but avoid using anything abrasive. Instead, dilute baby shampoo in water and use a soft microfiber cloth. Wipe gently in the direction of the leather grain.
If your leather purse gets stained, no need to panic. Grease stains can be removed by blotting the stain with cornstarch. If that doesn’t work, try using a special soap called saddle soap to blot the stained area. The earlier you do this after a stain, the better. Time is of the essence. While the stain may take several rounds of blotting and drying to disappear, this method should do the trick.
In terms of storing your leather purses, make sure to keep them away from direct sunlight. To help a purse keep its shape, fill it with crumpled papers or fabrics.
While this may seem like a lot of work, trust us when we say that genuine leather is an investment that’s worth the effort. Your leather purse can last years or even decades if tended to properly.
Why Trust Us
Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.