You're the accessory authority to your customer, who will appreciate advice on how to keep that new purchase looking great.

Some guidelines:

Although often made of the same materials as shoes, handbags, personal accessories, luggage and belts require a minimum of care, because they don't take the kind of beating shoes do.

Dirt can usually be wiped off leather and exotic skin bags and personal accessories with a clean, barely moist cloth. Saddle soap is not recommended, as it may remove the natural oils. A leather cream used sparingly enriches gloves and accessories; if it's a transparent cream, there's no danger of rubbing off on clothes.

A brush raises the nap and removes dust from suede items. New suedes are subject to"crocking", which means suede dust may rub off on hands and clothes. Crocking can be minimized by rubbing any new suede bag or accessory vigorously with a terry towel.

If suede or leather gets wet or rainspotted, empty the item, stuff it with tissue and let it dry at room temperature. After suede dries, brushing it with a terry towel will restore its appearance.

Umbrellas when wet should be dried open. Never store an umbrella when wet...chances of mildew are great!

Handbags and luggage or synthetic materials can be wiped clean with soap and water. Patent finishes on leather or synthetics also wipe clean.

New fabric handbags, luggage or personal accessories can be treated with a spray-on stain repellent. Spot removers will pick up surface dirt.

When storing your accessories, they should not be allowed to come into contact with one another, as some finishes may stick together. The best wrap for all kinds of accessories is tissue paper, not plastic bags. Avoid storing in extremes of heat, humidity, dryness or cold. This applies to leather gloves as well. If repairs are necessary, have them done immediately to avoid further damage to the accessory.



Copyright 1997, NFAA/FASA, New York, NY.
All rights reserved.