High on Leather: The Addictive Beauty of Veg-Tanned Leather

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What's Inside?

Have you ever been overwhelmed by a scent so powerful that it transformed your state of mind? Last night, I had an experience that made me genuinely reflect on that question. And no, I wasn’t on any substances, but the leather I surrounded myself with may have had a similar effect. It all began when I was in my warehouse here in Spain, preparing some leather for our upcoming production. That’s where this story begins—a unique, intoxicating encounter with Italian veg-tanned leather from Tuscany.

Can You Actually Get High on Leather?

Sounds ridiculous, right? I used to think so too. But as I moved through my storage, selecting leathers for an upcoming project, I was struck by the deep, earthy aroma of veg-tanned leather. Specifically, these came from the Santa Croce region, known for its distinctive recipes and tanning processes that create an unparalleled olfactory experience. The scent was rich, bold, and unmistakably intense—like stepping into a forest where history, craftsmanship, and nature collide. It’s the kind of smell that whispers stories of tradition and pride.

I’ve often shared my appreciation for these leathers in videos, but it goes beyond smell. There’s a sound to it as well—a kind of creak and snap that speaks of its structure and integrity. I’ve even made myself a belt from this leather just to carry a hint of its essence with me wherever I go. Confession: Even when sitting in the bathroom, the smell sneaks in and grounds me back to my passion for leather. 

A Drive Like No Other

So, there I was, loading up a car with stacks of these leather pieces alongside my brother. Our destination was Ubrique, where we’d deliver the leathers for production. The car ride was short—just fifteen minutes—but intense. The small enclosed space amplified that earthy aroma. It washed over me, igniting what can only be described as a wave of creativity. My mind raced, my senses heightened, and, honestly, I felt like I was in a trance. Whatever properties these leather scents had, they seemed to awaken something deep within—a burst of inspiration unlike any I’ve felt in years.

It felt like being on the edge of discovery, teetering between reality and imagination. Is it possible that the chemicals from the tannins or the unique oils could have an effect on the brain? Or wasit just nostalgia and passion driving me into overdrive? Whatever it was, I knew I was riding a leather-induced high. And, trust me, if a police officer had pulled me over, I would’ve had some explaining to do!

Veg-Tanned vs. The Classics: A Personal Preference

In the world of leather, there’s a spectrum of tastes. On one end, you have the refined, standardized beauty of fashion favorites like Togo or Mozart leathers. They have their place—elegant, consistent, sophisticated. But on the other end lies the raw, chaotic, and beautifully imperfect world of veg-tanned leather. Santa Croce’s veg-tanned leathers are a sensory overload, boasting a unique touch, smell, and sound. While I appreciate both ends of the spectrum, my heart lies firmly with the “leather junkie” crowd.

I even craft our senior briefcase in both Togo and Italian veg-tanned options. While they share the same design, the feel is entirely different. One carries sophistication; the other feels rugged, earthy, and alive. Each is valid. Each speaks to a different leather soul.

Are You a Leather Fashionista or a Junkie?

Enough about me. It’s time for some self-reflection: Where do you stand in the leather spectrum? Are you a fashionista who loves polished perfection? Or are you, like me, addicted to the raw, visceral experience of natural veg-tanned leathers? If you’re a leather junkie, let me offer you some advice: Keep that bag in the backseat. Your creativity might thank you, but it’s safer that way!

Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences below—I’d love to hear if leather has ever taken you on a journey. 

Where do you stand in the leather spectrum?

• Fashionista
• Leather Junkie