Understanding leather quality becomes essential when investing in luxury outerwear that will endure for generations. Our comprehensive guide explores the different grades of leather, from full grain to top grain, helping you recognize the superior materials used in our collections. Whether you're selecting a leather jacket, considering the tanning processes, or learning about proper care techniques, this guide provides the expertise needed to make informed decisions about leather goods that embody both timeless elegance and exceptional craftsmanship.

Natural Expertise Meets Refined Craftsmanship

Yves Salomon’s leather collection is an expression of artisan mastery and natural luxury. Crafted from premium lambskin and cowhide, our pieces—ranging from slim jackets to long trench coats—celebrate the elegance of supple, feather-light leather paired with meticulous sartorial detail.

Materials & Artisanal DetailsFine Enough to Wear Next to the SkinLamb leather stands out for its ultra-soft texture, lightweight feel, and delicate grain—culminating in pieces that drape like a second skin.

Leather Detailing and FinishesMany items feature artisanal touches such as dyed edges that evoke luxury leather goods craftsmanship, sharp-tooling detail, and precise hand coloring.

Supple Lamb LeatherOur trench coats and jackets crafted from smooth, malleable lambskin deliver a refined silhouette with impeccable fall, while offering ease of movement.

"Cuir Gonfio" (Plump Leather)Though not specifically referenced in product listings, this term typically denotes leather with a rich, cushioned feel. It aligns with the voluminous and softly structured pieces in our collection—like oversized trenches—that showcase leather’s depth and tactile allure.

Craftsmanship & Technical QualityEach leather garment is the result of rigorous selection, expert handcrafting, and technical coatings that preserve natural softness while enhancing durability. From flattering pleated skirts to double-breasted trench coats, our designs harness the leather’s inherent beauty and longevity.

Featured Pieces in LeatherCropped Biker JacketDesigned in luxurious lambskin with handcrafted edge dyeing and welt pockets for commanding style.

Long Trench Coat in SupplenessDefined by clean lines, a wide belt, and a retro-feminine collar, this trench highlights the leather’s natural drape and polish.

Long Belted Trench (Maxi Oversized)Offers instant refinement with a double-breasted silhouette, removable buckle cuffs, and supple lambskin that cinches beautifully at the waist.

Belted Safari-Inspired JacketA sophisticated nod to classic menswear in supple lambskin with an officer collar and handmade edge finishes.

Lamb Leather Hoodie Jacket (Men’s)A sporty staple elevated: crafted in supple lambskin with detailed edge dyeing and an urban, premium aesthetic.

Suede-finish calfskin safari jacket -Yves Salomon - New spring summer collection
Suede-finish calfskin safari jacket -Yves Salomon - New spring summer collection

Size

46 48 50 52 54 56 58

Suede-finish calfskin safari jacket

New in

Suede-finish calfskin safari jacket

£ 2,660
£ 2,660 -Infinity%
New in
Suede-finish calfskin denim jacket -Yves Salomon - New spring summer collection
Suede-finish calfskin denim jacket -Yves Salomon - New spring summer collection

Size

46 48 50 52 54 56 58

Calfskin leather jacket with a suede finish, denim cut

New in

Calfskin leather jacket with a suede finish, denim cut

£ 2,210
£ 2,210 -Infinity%
New in
Overshirt-style lambskin leather jacket -Yves Salomon - New spring summer collection
Overshirt-style lambskin leather jacket -Yves Salomon - New spring summer collection

Size

44 46 48 50 52 54 56 58

Overshirt-style lambskin leather jacket

New in

Overshirt-style lambskin leather jacket

£ 2,210
£ 2,210 -Infinity%
New in
Suede-finish calfskin safari jacket -Yves Salomon - New spring summer collection
Suede-finish calfskin safari jacket -Yves Salomon - New spring summer collection

Size

46 48 50 52 54 56 58

Suede-finish calfskin safari jacket

New in

Suede-finish calfskin safari jacket

£ 2,660
£ 2,660 -Infinity%
New in

Care & Preservation

To uphold the sumptuous quality and craftsmanship of Yves Salomon leather, adhere to this refined care guidance:

Never Wash or Clean at HomeAvoid washing, bleaching, tumble-drying, ironing, or generic dry-cleaning.

Professional Specialist CleaningFor optimal care—especially where animal parts or special finishes are concerned—consult a specialized cleaner experienced in luxury leather care.

Surface MaintenanceMaintain suppleness by gently wiping with a soft cloth and regularly applying a high-quality, suitable leather conditioner.

Protect Against Weather & SunlightUse silicone-free water repellents made for delicate leathers to ward off moisture. Avoid prolonged sun exposure which can bleach or dry out leather.

Mindful StorageStore in a cool, dry place using breathable garment bags. Avoid tight packing or compression, which can strain seams and alter the leather’s shape.
Care for Edges & DetailsPay special attention to dyed edges and tool-work—keep them free from abrasion and consider touch-up treatment when needed.

Timeless Leather, Everlasting EleganceYves Salomon leather pieces are crafted to be timeless companions—luxuriously tactile, technically refined, and visually striking. With refined care, your cropped biker jacket, oversized trench, or
safari-inspired leather design will maintain its elegance, softness, and form for years to come.

FAQ

What is lambskin leather ?

Lambskin leather comes from young sheep, typically under one year old, making it one of the softest and most luxurious materials available. Unlike shearling, which retains the wool attached to the hide, lambskin leather undergoes a specialized tanning process where the fleece is removed, resulting in an incredibly supple and lightweight material.
The quality of lambskin depends on the age of the animal and the tanning methods used. Yves Salomon sources only the finest lambskins, ensuring each piece offers exceptional softness while maintaining durability. This real leather breathes naturally and develops a beautiful patina over time, making it ideal for luxury jackets and coats.
Lambskin leather stands apart from sherpa, which is a synthetic fabric designed to mimic natural materials. While sherpa offers affordability, genuine lambskin provides unmatched comfort, longevity, and the sophisticated elegance that defines luxury outerwear.

Is lambskin leather good ?

When people discern between authentic and synthetic options, real shearling stands apart through its remarkable longevity and evolving comfort. The name Yves Salomon has become synonymous with this commitment to genuine materials that improve with age. Our shearling coats represent more than seasonal outerwear - they embody a philosophy of considered luxury. Each piece develops a personalized fit as the natural fibers adapt to your movements and body contours. The material's inherent resistance to water and moisture, combined with its breathable structure, ensures comfort across varying climates.

What is genuine leather ?

Genuine leather represents real leather derived from animal hide, yet sits at the entry level of leather quality grades. This term, while indicating authentic material, encompasses various processing methods that affect the final product's characteristics and durability.

Unlike full grain leather that preserves the hide's complete top layer, genuine leather often undergoes surface treatments to achieve a uniform appearance. These processes may remove minor imperfections and natural markings, creating a more consistent but less distinctive surface of the leather.

Cowhide leather forms the foundation for most genuine leather products, offering a versatile option for everyday accessories and leather furniture. While genuine leather lacks the premium qualities of top-grain varieties, it remains a popular choice for those seeking authentic materials at accessible price points. Understanding this distinction helps you select pieces that match your expectations for both performance and longevity.

Double-sided lambskin jacket -Yves Salomon - New spring summer collection
Double-sided lambskin jacket -Yves Salomon - New spring summer collection

Size

32 34 36 38 40 42 44

Double-sided lambskin jacket

New in

Double-sided lambskin jacket

£ 1,760
£ 1,760 -Infinity%
New in
Double-sided lambskin mini skirt -Yves Salomon - New spring summer collection
Double-sided lambskin mini skirt -Yves Salomon - New spring summer collection

Size

32 34 36 38 40 42 44

Double-sided lambskin mini skirt

New in

Double-sided lambskin mini skirt

£ 890
£ 890 -Infinity%
New in
Double-sided lambskin jacket -Yves Salomon - New spring summer collection
Double-sided lambskin jacket -Yves Salomon - New spring summer collection

Size

32 34 36 38 40 42 44

Double-sided lambskin jacket

New in

Double-sided lambskin jacket

£ 2,030
£ 2,030 -Infinity%
New in
Mid-length skirt in embroidered suede calfskin -Yves Salomon - New spring summer collection
Mid-length skirt in embroidered suede calfskin -Yves Salomon - New spring summer collection

Size

32 34 36 38 40 42 44

Mid-length suede calfskin skirt with crocodile-effect embossing

New in

Mid-length suede calfskin skirt with crocodile-effect embossing

£ 2,160
£ 2,160 -Infinity%
New in

What is full grain leather ?

Full grain leather stands as the pinnacle of leather excellence, representing the most prestigious grade available in luxury goods. This premium material preserves the complete top layer of the animal hide, retaining all natural markings and the dense fiber structure that creates unmatched strength and character.

Unlike processed alternatives, full grain leather develops a distinctive patina over time, enhancing its beauty with each year of use. The leather industry considers this the gold standard for luxury leather goods, from leather jackets to fine accessories.

Yves Salomon selects only the finest full grain leather for our collections, ensuring each piece embodies the superior quality and timeless appeal that defines true craftsmanship. This investment in premium materials guarantees decades of sophisticated wear while maintaining the natural beauty that makes each garment unique.

How to clean leather ?

Maintaining your leather jacket requires gentle attention and the right approach to preserve its natural beauty. Start with regular cleaning using a damp cloth to remove surface dust, always working in circular motions to avoid scratching the surface of the leather.

For deeper cleaning, choose products specifically designed for your leather type - genuine leather responds well to specialized conditioners that maintain its supple feel. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the top layer and compromise the leather's unique characteristics.

Storage plays a crucial role in leather longevity. Keep your pieces in a dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading and cracking. Use padded hangers to maintain shape and allow air circulation. With proper care, your leather garments will develop a beautiful patina while retaining their strength and sophistication for years to come.

How to remove ink from leather jacket

Ink stains on leather require immediate attention to prevent permanent damage. Genuine leather and top grain leather respond differently to treatment, so identifying your leather type guides the approach.

For fresh ink stains, gently blot with a clean cloth - never rub, as this pushes ink deeper into the animal hide. Real leather benefits from specialized ink removal products designed for luxury goods, while avoiding alcohol-based solutions that can strip natural markings and compromise the soft texture.

Professional cleaning becomes necessary for stubborn stains on exotic leathers or vintage pieces. The leather industry offers restoration services that preserve both the timeless appeal and structural integrity of your investment pieces, ensuring your jacket maintains its sophisticated appearance.

Boutiques

Trouver un magasin

24 rue de Sèvres 75007 Paris
245 rue Saint-Honoré 75001 Paris
36 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré 75008 Paris