<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">Thinking about building a small leather wardrobe, and wondering what order</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">makes the most sense. Here's how I'd approach it, and I'd like to hear what</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">others do.</span></span>



<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">1. A JACKET FIRST</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">It's the piece that changes an outfit the most. A dark brown or black</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">cafe racer, biker or trucker works with almost everything.</span></span>



<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">2. A BELT AND WALLET</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">Small items, used every day, so quality shows quickly. Check the</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">stitching on wallet edges and make sure belt holes are cleanly punched and</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">The buckle feels solid.</span></span>



<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">3. A BAG THAT FITS HOW YOU LIVE</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">- Commuting with a laptop: a laptop bag or briefcase.</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">- Everyday and lighter carry: a crossbody or tote.</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">- Weekends and travel: a duffle.</span></span>



<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">QUICK QUALITY CHECKS FOR ANY LEATHER PIECE</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">- Ask for the leather grade, not just "genuine leather".</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">- Check stitching at stress points (handle joins, strap ends, seams).</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">- Look at hardware: zips, buckles and clasps should feel smooth and solid.</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">- Think about how you'll use it daily, not just how it looks in photos.</span></span>



<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">A *** of care goes a long way: keep leather away from heat and direct sun,</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">wipe it clean, and condition it once or twice a year.</span></span>



<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">Disclosure: I work with </span></span><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">Oxbowe</span></span><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"> , which sells men's and women's leather</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">jackets as well as leather***ds like bags, belts and wallets, with express</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">shipping and easy returns. Happy to answer questions about leather,</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">sizing or care.</span></span>



<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">So what would you buy first, and what's the leather piece you've worn the</span></span>

<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">longest?</span></span>