PRADA 101: GUIDE TO LEATHERS & NYLONS

With a celebrated history in producing exquisite luxury accessories, Prada has a far-reaching arsenal of materials of the highest quality. Prada is often known for its revolutionary use of nylon, elevating the unsuspecting material to new heights in luxury. It is recognized for its well-loved collection of handbag designs and innovative use of materials.

Below, we’ve broken down the most common and well-known leathers and materials that have emerged from the brand – from past, to present.

Saffiano

One of the most popular types of leather employed by Prada, Saffiano leather is recognized by its signature crosshatched leather that is embossed with a waxy finish. Supple and highly durable, the unique Saffiano is designed to last a long time. It is scratch-resistant, water-resistant, and suitable for everyday use.

The Saffiano was famously rumoured to be invented by Mario Prada himself. The founder of Prada had invented the crosshatched leather in 1913, and the Saffiano was so well-received by the brand’s high-profile clients that Prada officially became the Italian royal family’s official supplier in 1919.

Tessuto

Created by Miuccia Prada in 1978, the Tessuto was originally conceived as Miuccia took inspiration from durable parachutes. The Tessuto has now become a hallmark of the Prada brand. This double-woven nylon is notable as one of the most durable and thickest fabrics used in designer bags. Featuring a subtle reflective shine that gives it a trendy, polished look, the Tessuto is also highly durable, and able to withstand water damage and everyday use. Fans of the Tessuto love it for the ease of maintenance and cleaning – any marks or scuffs can simply be wiped away with a washcloth.

Nappa Gaufre

Incredibly soft to the touch with a luxe plush texture, Prada’s Nappa Gaufre Leather is one of the most exquisite leathers. Incredibly thin, Nappa Gaufre can be delicate and should be protected with care. The immaculate ruched detail on the leather gives it a unique look that boasts fine artisanal craftsmanship. 

Nappa Leather

A natural full-grain leather made from lambskin, Nappa leather has a soft and supple feel. Known for its extremely fine grain, which gives it its buttery smooth texture, Nappa leather is one of the thinnest leather skins and is thus highly sought after for its luxurious quality.

Spazolatto

Spazolatto is a type of waxed calfskin that features a smooth texture with a subtle polished sheen. Other than handbags, Spazolatto is also often used to make footwear such as boots and heels. Despite bearing some resemblance to Vernice leather, Spazolatto lacks Vernice's high-shine appearance.

Vernice

A type of patent leather characterized by its high-shine varnished coating, Vernice leather is made from calfskin or lambskin leather that is layered with a plastic coating. Due to the coating, Vernice leather holds its structure better and is more durable with a firmer quality. As with all plastic-coated leathers, Vernice leather is very susceptible to scuffs, scratches and marks. Colour transfer is also common with patent leather, so extra care should be taken in storing and handling your Prada bag. 

Vitello Lux

“Vitello” translates to “calf” in English, which gives away the fact that Vitello leather is essentially calfskin leather with a distinctive natural grain. Generally considered thin and supple leather, Vitello leather is elegant and dazzling. It is also fairly durable and strong, holding its shape well and withstanding scratches and scuffs. 

Vitello Daino

Vitello Daino is a calfskin that has been processed to imitate the texture and appearance of luxurious deerskin. Vitello Daino is sturdier and stronger than actual deerskin, serving as a favourable alternative to deerskin. Able to withstand even heat and water, this leather is incredibly strong and will maintain its shape over time.

Cervo

Just like Vitello Daino leather, Cervo leather is created to imitate the unique qualities of deer hide, but it is actually created using cowhide. Featuring a subtle natural grain that gives it a buttery smooth and sophisticated appearance, Cervo leather has a beautifully textured exterior that is popular among fans. However, its softness makes Cervo leather easily scuffed and marked, so it requires greater care. It is also not as durable as Vitello Daino leather. 

Cavallino

One of the rarer Prada leather types, Cavallino is essentially a hair-on-hide leather created from cow skin. Eye-catching and stunning, Cavallino boasts of soft calfskin hair, giving it a tactile feel.

However, due to the nature of the hair texture, Cavallino leather can be easily stained and scuffed. Bags made from this leather does require some babying and must be handled with care. Any stains or damage should be repaired by a professional.  

Special textiles

Prada utilizes many special fabrics and materials in the creation of its limited edition or seasonal handbags. Recent examples include shearling, satin embellished with artificial crystals, wool, and exotic skins such as crocodile, lizard, and ostrich. These incredible textiles bear testament to the brand’s commitment to trend-focused designs and exquisite craftsmanship. 

There you have it, a complete breakdown of the most commonly sought-after leathers and materials used on Prada’s handbags. Which one is your favourite?

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