Monday morning riddle: What does Napoleon Bonaparte and “Pretty Woman” have in common, you ask? I’d say, a whole lot of skin , in the form of patent leather boots or patent looking latex boots! Yes, patent leather is way up there along with S&M outfits, crossing all social barriers!

(pix courtsey of www.download-free-pictures.com and www.starpulse.com)

Patent leather is a glossy high shine leather that has been given a treatment like rubber coating or when it first was manufactured, linseed oil based lacquer coating, way back in 1819. Patent leather then was usually used for formal wear like military boots and for a more “uptown” appearance due to its mirror like effect. It was also considered a premium item as the process involved is meant to give the fine leather a durable and smarter look.

Its glossy appearance dresses up the leather’s appearance makingit  more sophisticated. It used to be that, items made of patent leather had a more stiff and structured appearance due to the layers of coating. But these days, as plastic is used as the finishing , the material has evolved , giving more versatility to its usage which allows the material to made into sneakers and softer looking bags like hobos. If there is a leather item that every girl must have to smarten up an outfit, for me it will be a patent piece. You can find these glossy leather effect as  kinky boots right up to high fashion items. Check out some designer items from www.neimanmarcus.com and local brand thirtyfour’s very own Bree bag.

Taking care:
The thing that irks me most about patent leather is taking care of it, it gathers dust too easily and scratches easily too. Best way and easiest, is just to wipe off with a wet cloth but only after dusting it lightly for any grimes and dirt that may scratch the surface.

Lookalikes :
Latex and PVC vinyl materials gives same glossy effect but much cheaper in price.

How to wear them:
Just don’t match-matchy shoes with bags and wear as statement piece with the exception of a full S&M expression, in which case , keep it very private . Do experiment with different colours and shapes.

Who can wear it:
Everyone !! 18 year olds to 70 year olds would still look gorgeous with an elegant piece. If you are eighteen, experiment with gaudy , colourful latex pieces but invest in a good elegant piece after thirty, and you won’t regret it! It will carry you through the ages…

Possible related posts...

• Shopping: Stress Buster Or Just An Excuse To Spend?
• Living Carpe Diem
• Why Talking About Things Can Help
• Style Kandi Is Launched!
• It’s Time To CHANGE THE WORLD!