Going for an interview or attending a lunch with the board of directors, sophisticated and professional, a black Italian leather handbag is always a good choice. Heads will turn when you walk into the room with a chic red Tignanello leather purse or a supple indigo Osprey shoulder Stone Mountain leather handbag. Leather is known for its durability and can last a lifetime when proper care is taken. It is necessary to maintain the beauty and other desired qualities of leather. And to ensure that it is protected from excessive dryness and moisture that may cause it to swell or mildew.

The following these tips to make your leather handbag a lifetime utility accessory.

• Your leather bag should not be stored in plastic bags or other nonporous covers as they encourage the growth of mildew and bacteria that ruin the leather.

• In a dry environment, regularly condition the leather in order to prevent it from drying out and cracking.

• Caustic household chemicals should never be used to clean leather and leather preparations that contain alcohol should also be avoided.

• Turpentine and mineral spirits must be avoided as they can pull the colour.

• No waxes or silicone should be used on soft leather as they gum up the pores, making it impossible to oil and condition.

• Fresh stains of blood or food items can be cleaned up with a damp cloth. While those from oil or grease can be cleaned by grinding ordinary blackboard chalk, sprinkling the area and leaving the powder on for twenty-four hours.

• A dampened cheesecloth and a leather conditioning cream should be used three to four times a year.