10 leather trends for 2023

The leather industry is being revolutionized by new materials and finishes as innovation changes the nature of the industry in times of climate change. Bio-based materials continue to drive innovation, but also the technology that creates previously unimagined surfaces and textures. Other alternatives to bovine leather are also gaining attention, such as leather from invasive species, which are said to help restore ecosystems around the planet. This 2023 Trend Outlook was compiled by Inversa Leathers, a company founded in 2020 with a mission to develop materials to help protect biodiversity.

Padded

Padded leather, already used by luxury brands like Bottega Veneta, will be a key look in early 2023.

texture

As flat, smooth leather surfaces fade from the limelight, textured looks utilizing the latest innovative technologies will be the next leather trend to be talked about.

Greener leather alternatives

From coffee, mushrooms and seaweed to fish and species of python, there is now a plethora of greener materials being used by designers and sought after by customers.

Worn/torn surfaces

As more and more consumers find second-hand clothing cool, designers take inspiration from the worn effect, creating distressed leather surfaces and lots of beautiful pull-up finishings.

sea ​​skins

Holiday themes continue to take us on a journey in the fashion scene, and the fantasy of impersonating a mermaid has never been more alluring. Leather with sea skin effects and sustainable fish leather are used in accessories and outerwear and ensure an elegant look.

Regenerative leather

Regenerative invasive leather developed by Inversa Leathers is pioneering the future of the leather industry. The term “sustainable” has been watered down as “greenwashing” has diminished the value of the word and the need to use it. Regenerative textiles ensure that products and brands are more than just sustainable, but proactively do good for the planet. This will be the new topic of conversation in 2023.

Vegetable tanned, living leather and natural dyes

Vegetable tanned leather will replace the dangerous chrome tanned hides and be finished with natural, vibrant dyes to create the next wave of eco-friendly and eye-catching leather looks.

Metallic and pearlescent luster

Leather is a timeless material, but the diverse finishing options keep the trends going. In 2023, metallic and pearlescent finishes will dominate.

Exotic Prints

Fashion has begun to embrace the contours and textures of raw, natural earth and will continue to do so in 2023. A variety of animal prints that live in gritty soil, such as pythons, will be featured in natural fiber garments and accessories. As consumers increase their knowledge of sustainable textiles, this trend may converge with a trend towards sourcing regenerative exotic leathers.

wet look (gloss)

The wet look trend has made a steady comeback since the 80s and has been reinterpreted in myriad ways, with textiles creating illusions. Sensual and form-fitting, this trend embraces the beauty of the human body in all shapes and sizes, supporting the industry’s drive to represent all diversity. This year the leather will adopt the wet look through the use of shiny finishes.

Inversa Leather is sponsored by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and endorsed by the Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance (ORRAA). Their goal is to create a portfolio of Inversa leathers, each addressing a specific man-made crisis to revitalize ecosystems around the world.

Visit www.inversaleathers.com for more information.

This translated article first appeared on FashionUnited.uk.

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