The Start

Leather from Florence, Italy

It has been many years (decades, in fact!) since I first stepped on Italian soil and despite many visits, it's still my favourite destination. Business, fun shopping, or just a relaxed holiday - it's all there... I love the art, history, the food (did I mention the pistachio gelato from Grom?), the opera, and of course, the clothes and bags... So no wonder that Florence, Italy was where I wanted to get my leather bags for my shop. 

The Florentine tradition of working leather dates back into antiquity. Due to the proximity of the Arno river, providing the water necessary for the tanning process, Florence and it's surroundings became important source of exceptionally soft and supple leather products that one associates with Italy.

Italians will say that the amount of leather bags and jackets on offer in Florence "è embarassante" - embarrassing. I wouldn't go that far - but it sure can be overwhelming. Have a look at the selection of handmade Italian in SILKTOP in the leather Bags section - all done in that leather capital of the world, truly "Made in Italy".