Guide II
Metallic Leathers
Gold, silver, bronze and pearl leathers look delicate because they are. The shine is usually a very thin foil, film or pigment layer on the surface. Care is mostly about not wearing that layer away.
What you are looking at
- Foiled or laminated leather. A metallic foil bonded to the grain. Bright and even, but scuffs can lift the foil.
- Pigmented metallic leather. Metallic pigment in a surface finish. Softer shine, slightly more forgiving.
- Metallic patent. A glossy coated surface. Wipes clean, but can crease and pick up colour from other materials.
- Metallic suede and nubuck. A sheen on a napped surface. Treat like suede, gently.
Everyday care
- Wipe with a soft, dry microfibre cloth after wear to remove dust before it scratches.
- For marks, use a cloth only just damp with water. Dab and lift rather than rubbing.
- If the leather feels dry, a very small amount of colourless cream on a cloth, tested first inside the heel, is plenty.
- Let them dry naturally, away from radiators and direct sun.
Skip the wax and coloured polish. Wax dulls a metallic finish and coloured polish stains it. Solvents, alcohol wipes and household cleaners can strip the foil in seconds.
Scuffs and lifted foil
A scuff on metallic leather is usually missing finish, not dirt, so it cannot be polished back. Small marks can sometimes be disguised with a metallic leather touch-up product matched to the colour; test on a hidden spot. For large areas, a shoe-repair or leather-restoration specialist can advise whether refinishing is possible.
Metallic suede
Brush gently in one direction with a soft suede brush. Use a suede eraser only for small marks and with light pressure. A protector spray may help with water, but test it first: some sprays dull the sheen.
Storing them
- Keep each pair in its own cloth bag so the finish does not rub against other shoes.
- Use shoe trees or acid-free tissue to keep the shape.
- Store away from rubber, coloured fabrics and newspaper, which can transfer colour onto pale metallics.
- Let them breathe; avoid sealing them in plastic for long periods.
Weddings and evenings
If a pair is reserved for special occasions, wear it around the house once or twice before the day. A new pair that rubs or slips is more likely to be scuffed on a dance floor. Pack a soft cloth in a pocket or bag for a quick wipe.