One of the primary functions of fashion is to communicate. It can be used to show you belong to a particular subculture, or express your personality. An expensive car is a status symbol for those who have achieved a certain level of success, and designer clothes can do the same. Wearing brands such as Gucci, Prada, D…G and Hugo Boss demonstrate a level of success. Accessories are that finer bit of detail that really separate those who can afford luxury, and those who pretend. Choosing luxurious accessories is taking that extra step, and it does not go unnoticed. In this article I will look at the most luxurious designer leather wallets, and what each brand represents.
The wallet, out of all men’s accessories, has the closest association with success. If you are paying in an expensive shop or restaurant, it is important to make the correct impression. A leather wallet from a luxury designer brand will immediately show that you are a man who has achieved (of course your clothes need to match this level of luxury). Designer brands such as Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Mulberry and Dunhill have strong assocations with success and have the power to communicate a very strong message. Most wallets look very similar, and so the branding (i.e. use of the logo) is all important. Luxury designer wallets are also manufactured to a very high standard meaning they will not lose their shape as fast as others. There is nothing worse than removing a dog-eared wallet.
Before we take a close look at the designer brands, it is worth understanding the different styles and shapes of wallets. The classic billfold is the most popular choice, as it takes both credit cards and notes. When purchasing an expensive designer wallet, it is important to consider whether you want an integrated coin pocket or not. A coin pocket allows all types of money to be carried in one place, but can make the wallet look slightly bulky. In order to give off an impression of total luxury, the wallet needs to look perfectly clean and crisp. Although slightly old fashioned, a money clip is a unique alternative and has a serious look about it.
Some designer brands have a particular association in people’s minds with luxury and will therefore make the most impact. Louis Vuitton is possibly the most aspirational leather goods brand, famed for its instantly recognisable printed pattern. Their men’s wallets incorporate this pattern, and are sure to make a big impression. This look is bold and is for the person who likes to show off. Gucci is similar to Louis Vuitton in that it is a very opulent brand that strongly features their logo over the wallet. Prada is also connected with these ideals, but is visually more subtle and is synonymous with high quality Italian leather.
For the gentleman who truly appreciates luxury but requires an understated look, it is important to find the right brand that communicates refinement. In the UK there are several designer brands that have a global reputation for the sophisticated English look. Mulberry epitomises Classic English, focusing on high quality leather wallets (textured, moc-croc etc) rather than ostentatious designs. The distinctive tree logo is usually embossed in the bottom right corner and is a real status symbol. Dunhill has a slightly more ‘Modern British’ flavour, with simple and elegant wallet designs. The advertising campaigns featuring Jude Law have helped give this brand a smart yet fashionable and contemporary flavour. For the man who wants a luxury wallet but also show off a quirky side, Paul Smith offers this and more. Paul Smith tends to do away with the classic plain wallet, and incorporates his coloured stripe motif. Other wallets incorporate a ‘naked ladies’ lining or a painted 1960s mini. The aforementioned brands tend to have a retail price of around 150. Designer Brands such as Calvin Klein and Hugo Boss offer luxury wallets at a slightly more affordable price between 50 and 80.
David Cole is a trained designer, and has worked in the mens fashion industry for 4 years since graduating. He has a particular interest in mens accessories, and runs a website called Herbert Jones Mens Accessories that offers mens wallets as well as Calvin Klein wallets and more from the leading designer brands.
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