I have a ready answer for those who keep asking why people hoard Hermès crocodile Birkins. Repeat after me, all ye accused: We purchase the things we think we deserve.
Exotic leather adds an extra layer of sophistication to us 9-to-9 high-heeled hustlers. Slap them on shoes and bags, and you’ve got stuff that just keeps on giving. Now it’s time we give back.
It’s important to remember that skins are more fragile than the usual leather. Unless you’re Ariel and your zip code’s underwater, we’re expected to store crocodile leather items in a cool, dry environment. The handbag connoisseur Steve Dumain of Be & D even suggests coating natural or untreated skins with some waterproof spray.
In the likely event that water comes into contact with your crocodile shoes and bags, simply rub the area with a soft, dry towel or cloth to absorb excess moisture. Now let it dry indoors. Sunlight is not that kind to them, either.
A good place to keep your goods is a roomy shoe closet. Don’t ever make the mistake of folding your crocs the way you would with your Yosi Samras. This can cause unsightly cracks and crease marks that Dr. Aivee Teo can’t even remedy with her latest blemish tech.
Here’s where a leather conditioner comes in handy. This helps protect the skin and keep it looking new. Just make sure to apply as instructed. You wouldn’t want oily skins now, don’t you? Then again don’t strip it of its much-needed oils by using detergents. Just keep the cleaning plain, simple, and gentle.
Please go through this a second-time to make sure you’re caring for your crocs right. Or have your trusty helper know this, too. In any case, genuine leather care is a lesson for us who buys them in the first place.