Well, I learned something very valuable that day. I am not a big fan of exotic skins like crocodile or snake. I have mixed feelings about an animal like that being killed for a handbag. Please before you get all PETA on my ass, I'm aware that this is a heated topic and trust me, there is no right or wrong, yes or no, or definitive argument that finalizes anything for either side. Let's remove those feelings and discuss something beyond the killing of animals and the decadent behaviour of humans, shall we?
Going back to the original story, my first impulse was to buy a crocodile skin bag. I mean little ole me owning something crocodile. Wow. Aside from being ashamed that a crocodile was going to die for me, I was also excited to own crocodile skin. I shamefully admit it. I see it as a status. I also admit I'm human and not all my decisions are wise ones.
Okay, back on topic.
So I was ready to grab a crocodile skin bag and an ostrich skin bag and a...when the person who owned the factory looked at me like I was the most inexperienced shopper. I was indignant. I like this bag, I proclaimed! I've always wanted something this nice. I want crocodile skin!
She pulled me aside and said, lady, the bag is $350USD, it's not real crocodile skin. It's super nice calf leather embossed to look like crocodile skin. A little miffed that I had been fooled, I protested to her that no one will be able to tell the difference!
Man, was I wrong. Here's a tip, handbags made with real crocodile skin will actually have a peel-ly feel to it. Like it will come apart. It doesn't and you shouldn't sit there and pick at it!
Embossed leather will only have the bumps and grooves but will for the most part feel smooth. Exotic skins rarely feel smooth.
What's the point of this?
Well, say you were to buy a replica crocodile skin Hermes Birkin. An awesome handbag that still makes me salivate on a good day. Just know that you're not getting crocodile skin. And anyone that you meet with a good eye for leather is gonna know that you are carrying a fake.
Most of my friends would know I'm carrying a fake Hermes simply because I don't have $55,000USD to buy one. It doesn't need to be Hermes. A lot of other designers use crocodile skin or ostrich or snake. In the replica world, you'll never get this detail copied. Make sure the website you buy from states it's Mock Croc or embossed croc.
Having said that,
OMG! I still love this bag. I have it in black.
It is the most expensive bag in the world. It is also the most expensive handbag I carry. Even the replica, with all the quality details and high end leather goes for $350.00USD. I have both in stock. Let me know if you have any questions!
Happy Shopping!!
