Hello everyone, this is Nagata.
Recently, we noticed a natural leather phenomenon unique to this season on some of the leather and stock products stored at our factory.
This leather was originally planned with the idea of “using leather that truly feels like leather,” and was previously introduced here. Seeing its appearance once again made us think,
“People who are not familiar with this would probably be surprised when they see it.”
That is why we decided to write this article anew.
This leather is used in the Vary series, and is now also featured in the Pollet series and the Ark Leather series.
What Is “Bloom”?
The term “bloom,” as mentioned in the title, may be familiar to some of you, while others may be encountering it for the first time.
In fact, even within our team, when staff members saw the actual leather, we heard comments such as:
“Is that mold?”
“If I bought this and saw it right away, I’d be worried…”
At first glance, it can certainly look surprising if you don’t know what it is.
That is exactly why we felt it was important to properly explain this phenomenon known as “bloom.”
Bloom Is Not Mold
Bloom refers to a phenomenon in which oils and waxes that have penetrated deep into the leather rise to the surface and appear due to changes in temperature.
Because it looks like a white, powdery substance, it is easy to mistake it for mold at first glance—but it is not mold.
Especially in leather that contains a high amount of oil or wax, bloom is a natural and normal characteristic of the material, so please rest assured.
What Kind of Leather Does This Occur In?
Bloom is most commonly known as a phenomenon seen in bridle leather, which was originally developed for equestrian equipment.
Because bridle leather is heavily infused with grease to protect the leather, its components tend to solidify as temperatures drop, making them more likely to appear on the surface.
However, bloom does not occur only in bridle leather.
It can also appear in leather that is rich in oils and waxes, such as the leather we are introducing here.
Why Does It Occur in Cold Weather?
The main reason bloom occurs is a drop in temperature.
As the temperature decreases, the oils and waxes contained within the leather rise to the surface and solidify, appearing white.
Leather also varies from piece to piece, so bloom can appear in many different ways, such as:
・More noticeable or less noticeable
・Appearing unevenly across the surface
・Forming along seams or edges of parts
・Looking like scratch-like lines
・Appearing as if liquid droplets have scattered
No two bloom patterns are exactly the same.
Bloom rarely appears during the leather production process or while bags are being manufactured. It most often occurs when:
・The item is unused
・The product is purchased during colder seasons
・The item is stored without being used
How to Care for Leather When Bloom Appears
Even if bloom appears, there is no need for any special treatment.
Recommended Care Method
1. Gently brush with a horsehair brush
(Use light pressure to avoid scratching the surface.)
2. Wipe with a soft, dry cloth
This helps the excess bloom blend into the leather and restores its natural luster.
You can also lightly warm the leather with a hair dryer or place it in a warm environment, which allows the solidified oils to melt and return to their original state.
With repeated care, the leather will gradually develop a deeper, richer expression over time.
A Phenomenon That Feels Like Proof That Leather Is “Alive”
Bloom is a slightly special phenomenon that can only be seen during the colder seasons.
It may feel as though the leather is breathing—changing its expression in response to its environment.
In that sense, it can be seen as proof that the material itself is alive.
Simply knowing about this phenomenon can change how you perceive your belongings and deepen your sense of attachment to them.
Including bloom, leather is a material that grows into a unique expression through each person’s way of use and care.
We hope you will enjoy not only the product itself, but also its aging and character over time.
