My Tod’s D bag was the reward for the completion of a year-long project back in the 90s. I ignored the advice to keep its beautiful aniline leather away from the rigours of everyday life, preferring to let the wear of daily use develop into something lovelier than brand new. The emotional connection through the last 25 years is very special.
Welcome to It’s A Long Story from Leather Naturally.
The world’s first ever digital exhibition dedicated to the incredible longevity and circularity of leather.
Join us on a journey of discovery with films, interviews, galleries and stories as we meet makers, designers and leather repair experts who celebrate the legacy and long lasting qualities of leather.
Thank you to our supporters, Suzie Fletcher, Anya Hindmarch, Bill Amberg, Julie Deane CBE and Deni – and the many global brands who have contributed to It’s A Long Story.
Do you have a favourite leather piece – with a story to tell? Why not share your own story with us? Just click on any of the personal story requests throughout the exhibition.
Leather is the material with by far the greatest potential to capture memory. When both designers and consumers who are passionate about leather talk about this, you’ll often hear them describe leather as a living material. Leather captures, complements, and remembers shape beautifully.
A conversation with Liam Maher & Stefano Pillepich, ECCO
We catch up with Liam Maher, Global Creative Director at ECCO and Stefano Pillepich, Head of ECCO Leather Goods to hear their views on the unique qualities, cultural and human values of leather. And their passion for the sustainability of leather at ECCO.
The longevity of leather - an interview with Julie Deane CBE
“If a leather strap is chewed by a dog – you can repair and replace it. And indeed leather products often look better with age. I have a 14 year old satchel that has aged in a way that looks loved and valued.”
We explore the unique longevity of leather with Cambridge Satchel Founder, Julie Deane CBE.
Deni got her first leather jacket when she was 25 years old. The impact of the jacket was huge, a new world opened up. Slowly, she replaced her wardrobe to the point that her wardrobe is now 90% leather. Leather was life-changing for Deni.
Deni is a Leather Fashionista | Author | Blogger
Leather has been a popular material in the world of fashion for centuries. Its versatility, durability, and timeless appeal have made it a staple in clothing and accessory design. Deni shows you some favourite items.
Once people know about the longevity of leather, they can make educated choices. In fact, there is nothing better than having a positive and open discussion, taking into account all points of view
In conversation with Suzie Fletcher...
Presenter of BBC’s Repair Shop and a Master Saddle Maker, Suzie Fletcher shares her career story, love of leather and passion for saddle making.
Leather repair plays a key role in a greener & sustainable economy. The Boot Repair Company has over 120 years experience repairing all types of leather shoes and boots. From the British Army & Royal Navy to Dr Martens and Timberland.
Dubarry Galway Boots Repaired
Watch the crafted repair of these Dubarry Galway boots
The Leather Repair Company
Want to know how to repair scratched leather? Watch here!
Tanner Leatherstein Podcast
During the Podcast, Tanner Leatherstein and Debbie Burton talked about how to read labels when buying leather goods.
I think we need to trust in and return to nature as much as we can. Leather is an incredible, natural, waterproof, flexible, durable material that should not be wasted and has an important place in any circular economy
Listen to Anya Hindmarch discuss regenerative farming and leather making with Monocle Radio
Personal Stories
Read the below personal stories about special leather items. Either drag your cursor or use the buttons to view more.
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Debbie's Tod Bag
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Aukje's Baseball Glove
How a beat-up baseball mitt and a passion for softball, shaped one woman’s teenage years and taught her lessons for life.
“This glove represents such an important part of growing up. We won and lost games, yelled at each other and always made up, and cried and laughed together.”
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Nike Olympic Track Shoe
As the Olympics opened in 2021 so did bidding on an original pair of Nike leather track shoes. The shoes on auction combined a 1960s leather upper and a sole unit that featured the waffle design that was to redefine athletic footwear.
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Frans' Hat
During the 700-kilometre trek to Vezelay (F), my trusty leather hat was invaluable. It protected me from the unpredictable weather changes, shielding me from the relentless rain that fell suddenly and the relentless sun that beat down on me during the day.
As I traversed the ancient path, the hat became a symbol of both the practicality and intention behind my Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage.
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Gaby’s Nike High Tops
How many ways can you wear a pair of leather sneakers? Turns out quite a lot actually! I bought these customised Nike high tops in the early 2000s. They were a limited edition project with Liberty and I loved them because the powder pink floral pattern was so delicate and softened the usual heavy style of a traditional high top. I’ve worn these with shorts, dresses, jeans. They are my beautiful ‘go to’ sneakers and never let me down…
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Pim's Baby Shoes
My parents already understood in the late 70s how important a pair of good leather shoes is for the orthopedic development of children’s feet.
Leather, known for its durability and breathability plays a crucial role in ensuring proper support and comfort for growing feet.
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Hazel's Bag
I bought my Dries Van Noten bag in a sale at Barney’s New York in 2000. My mother repaired the lining and zip twice and the local shoemaker made new straps. Over the years, the bag has acquired a beautiful patina. Since then, I carry her almost every day!
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Beatriz's Jacket
I was given this leather jacket as a gift more than 20 years ago. It was a very special gift, I have worn it all this time and it still looks like new. Now my teenage daughter is the one who enjoys the jacket. She says it’s great how a leather garment never goes out of style. That’s a reason now I am involved in the leather business and how to improve its manufacture more sustainably.
-
Debbie's Tod Bag
My Tod’s D bag was the reward for the completion of a year-long project back in the 90s. I ignored the advice to keep its beautiful aniline leather away from the rigours of everyday life, preferring to let the wear of daily use develop into something lovelier than brand new. The emotional connection through the last 25 years is very special.
-
Aukje's Baseball Glove
How a beat-up baseball mitt and a passion for softball, shaped one woman’s teenage years and taught her lessons for life.
“This glove represents such an important part of growing up. We won and lost games, yelled at each other and always made up, and cried and laughed together.”
-
Nike Olympic Track Shoe
As the Olympics opened in 2021 so did bidding on an original pair of Nike leather track shoes. The shoes on auction combined a 1960s leather upper and a sole unit that featured the waffle design that was to redefine athletic footwear.
-
Frans' Hat
During the 700-kilometre trek to Vezelay (F), my trusty leather hat was invaluable. It protected me from the unpredictable weather changes, shielding me from the relentless rain that fell suddenly and the relentless sun that beat down on me during the day.
As I traversed the ancient path, the hat became a symbol of both the practicality and intention behind my Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage.
-
Gaby’s Nike High Tops
How many ways can you wear a pair of leather sneakers? Turns out quite a lot actually! I bought these customised Nike high tops in the early 2000s. They were a limited edition project with Liberty and I loved them because the powder pink floral pattern was so delicate and softened the usual heavy style of a traditional high top. I’ve worn these with shorts, dresses, jeans. They are my beautiful ‘go to’ sneakers and never let me down…
-
Pim's Baby Shoes
My parents already understood in the late 70s how important a pair of good leather shoes is for the orthopedic development of children’s feet.
Leather, known for its durability and breathability plays a crucial role in ensuring proper support and comfort for growing feet.
-
Hazel's Bag
I bought my Dries Van Noten bag in a sale at Barney’s New York in 2000. My mother repaired the lining and zip twice and the local shoemaker made new straps. Over the years, the bag has acquired a beautiful patina. Since then, I carry her almost every day!
-
Beatriz's Jacket
I was given this leather jacket as a gift more than 20 years ago. It was a very special gift, I have worn it all this time and it still looks like new. Now my teenage daughter is the one who enjoys the jacket. She says it’s great how a leather garment never goes out of style. That’s a reason now I am involved in the leather business and how to improve its manufacture more sustainably.