David Jones handbags are everywhere. With their trendy designs and accessible price points, it’s easy to see their appeal. A question we often hear from discerning shoppers, however, is whether their stylish exteriors are crafted from genuine leather. As artisans who live and breathe high-quality leather every day, we believe in empowering you with knowledge to make choices that you’ll love for years to come.
So, let’s delve into the materials behind the brand and explore the crucial differences between a fashion-forward accessory and a timeless, handcrafted investment piece.
The Direct Answer: What Is the Material in David Jones Bags?
To put it simply, the vast majority of David Jones bags are not made from real animal leather. They are primarily crafted from a synthetic material known as PU leather. “PU” stands for polyurethane, which is a type of plastic polymer applied to a fabric backing.
This choice of material is central to the brand’s business model. It allows them to produce a wide variety of trendy styles and colors at a low cost, making fashion accessible to a broad audience. While they may offer an attractive look, it’s essential to understand that these bags belong in a different category entirely from those made of genuine, full-grain leather.
What Is PU Leather Exactly? A Closer Look at the Synthetic Material
Understanding what PU leather is helps clarify why it’s so different from the real thing. Imagine a base layer of fabric, like cotton or polyester. A layer of liquid plastic polymer (polyurethane) is then coated over it and treated to mimic the texture of leather. The result is a completely man-made material with a very uniform, consistent appearance.
PU leather, sometimes called “vegan leather” or “faux leather,” has a few distinct advantages that appeal to fast-fashion brands. It’s inexpensive to produce, can be made in any color or finish imaginable, and is water-resistant. However, these benefits come with significant trade-offs in terms of durability, feel, and long-term value. It lacks the natural character, strength, and breathability that make genuine leather so coveted.
How Does PU Leather Stack Up Against Genuine Leather?
This is where the distinction becomes most clear. At Beldtura, we exclusively use 100% full-grain leather—the highest quality grade available, taken from the strongest part of the hide. The difference isn’t just a matter of preference; it’s a fundamental difference in performance, longevity, and character.
Let’s break down the key comparisons in a table:
| Feature | PU (Polyurethane) Leather | Full-Grain Genuine Leather |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Prone to cracking, peeling, and tearing, often within 1-2 years of use. It does not handle friction or flexing well over time. | Extremely durable and strong. With proper care, it can last a lifetime, often being passed down through generations. |
| Aging Process | Deteriorates with age. The plastic surface flakes away, and the color can fade unevenly. It looks worse over time. | Develops a beautiful, rich patina—a unique sheen and darkening that tells the story of its use. It looks better with age. |
| Feel & Scent | Feels cold, smooth, and plastic-like. Often has a distinct chemical or plastic smell, especially when new. | Feels soft, supple, and has a natural texture with unique imperfections. Possesses a rich, earthy, and unmistakable scent. |
| Breathability | Essentially a layer of plastic, it is not breathable at all. This can trap moisture. | A natural, porous material that is highly breathable, which helps prevent moisture buildup. |
| Environmental Impact | Derived from fossil fuels (petroleum). Its production is energy-intensive, and it does not biodegrade, contributing to plastic waste. | A byproduct of the meat industry. When sourced from responsible tanneries, high-quality leather is a durable, natural material that avoids landfill for decades. |
Why Do Many Brands Opt for Synthetic Materials?
The choice to use PU leather over genuine leather almost always comes down to three factors: cost, consistency, and market positioning.
- Cost: This is the single biggest driver. Synthetic materials are dramatically cheaper to source and manufacture than high-quality animal hides. This cost saving is passed on to the consumer, resulting in a low retail price.
- Consistency: For mass production, uniformity is key. PU leather can be produced in massive rolls with a perfectly identical pattern and no imperfections. Genuine leather hides are natural products, meaning each one has unique marks, scars, and grain variations that require skilled artisans to select and cut.
- Vegan Trend: Some consumers actively seek out non-animal products. Brands use terms like “vegan leather” to cater to this market, though the environmental sustainability of plastic-based alternatives is highly debatable compared to a long-lasting, natural product.
How Do You Spot a Truly Genuine Leather Bag?
When you’re ready to invest in the real thing, knowing what to look for is crucial. A genuine leather bag is a sensory experience. Here are a few simple tests from our craftsmen to help you identify authentic quality:
- Read the Label: Look for explicit terms like “100% Full-Grain Leather” or “Top-Grain Leather.” Vague terms like “Man-Made Material” or even just “Genuine Leather” (which can refer to a lower-quality grade) can be red flags.
- Examine the Surface Grain: Look closely. Full-grain leather has tiny, imperfect pores and natural variations. PU leather has a repeating, artificially uniform pattern. Press a finger into the surface; real leather will wrinkle naturally, while PU leather will just depress.
- Check the Edges: The edges of a PU leather strap will be perfectly smooth and often sealed with a plastic coating. The edge of a real leather strap will look fibrous and rougher, showing the natural hide structure.
- Trust Your Nose: This is one of the most reliable tests. Real leather has a rich, slightly sweet, earthy scent that is impossible to fake. PU leather will smell of chemicals or plastic.
- Consider the Price: Quality comes at a price. The cost of a premium hide, combined with the skilled labor required to craft it, means a true full-grain leather bag is an investment. If the price seems too good to be true, it almost certainly is.
Which Bag Is the Right Investment for You?
Ultimately, the question of “Are David Jones bags leather?” leads to a more personal one: what do you value in a bag? If you’re looking for an inexpensive, trendy accessory for a single season, a PU bag might fit the bill. There is a market for every product.
However, if you value longevity, character, and sustainable style, the choice is clear. A full-grain leather bag is more than just an accessory; it’s a companion that ages with you, developing a patina that is uniquely yours. It stands in direct opposition to the throwaway culture of fast fashion. It’s an investment in craftsmanship and a commitment to owning something of true, lasting quality.
When you choose a handcrafted piece backed by a lifetime warranty, you’re not just buying a bag—you’re acquiring a future heirloom.
