Frequently Asked Questions

Thinking about choosing one of my bags? You’ll find answers to the questions I am asked most often below, from choosing the right size and learning about my leather to delivery, returns and caring for your bag. If you can’t find the information you need, please get in touch. I am always happy to help.

About our bags

Are your bags made from genuine leather?

Yes. My bags and accessories are handcrafted from beautiful full-grain leather. Unlike heavily processed leather, full-grain leather retains its natural texture and character, so it becomes softer and develops a lovely patina with use.

Where are your bags designed and made?

I design every bag right here in my Bristol studio, before working closely with skilled artisans in India to bring each design to life. From the shape and pockets to the hardware and my signature floral linings, every detail is carefully considered.

Is your leather responsibly sourced?

Yes. My leather is chrome-free (free of nasty chemicals!) and produced using natural oils and dyes. The leather is developed by a traditional tannery that is REACH compliant and SA8000 certified. I choose materials and manufacturing partners carefully, with a focus on quality, responsible production and bags that are made to last.

Why might my bag look slightly different from the photographs?

Leather is a natural material, so every hide has its own grain, markings and subtle variations in colour. These are part of the character of full-grain leather rather than faults, and they make every bag a little different. Colours can also appear slightly different depending on your screen settings and lighting.

Will the leather soften or change over time?

Yes, and that is one of the lovely things about leather. With regular use, your bag will soften and develop its own natural patina. Rather than wearing out, a well-cared-for leather bag becomes more individual with age.

What are your bags lined with?

My bags are fully lined with a cheerful floral-print polycotton fabric. It’s become something of a trademark and adds a lovely pop of colour inside your bag!

Choosing the right bag

How can I tell whether a bag will be the right size for me?

I’ve included full measurements on every product page. The easiest way to picture the size is to compare those measurements with a bag you already own. If you’re still unsure, please drop me a line hello@theleatherstoreuk.com and tell me what you need to carry. I’ll be happy to help you choose.

Which bags will fit a laptop?

Laptop capacity is stated on the individual product page. I have several styles designed to hold laptops up to 13 inches, as well as larger totes for laptops up to 17 inches. As laptop dimensions can vary even when the screen size is the same, please compare your laptop's actual measurements with the bag before ordering. Remember to account for the zip closure!

Can you help me choose the right bag?

Of course. After more than 20 years of helping customers find their perfect bag, it’s still one of the things I love doing most! Just tell me what you usually carry, how you prefer to wear your bag and anything that’s particularly important to you, such as pockets, weight or laptop space. Drop me a line hello@theleatherstoreuk.com and I’ll be happy to help!

Ordering your perfect bag

What happens after I place my order?

Once you’ve placed your order, you’ll receive a confirmation by email. I’ll then get to work preparing your order for dispatch. You’ll receive a tracking number so you know your order is on its way to you. Remember to check your spam or junk folder if the emails don’t appear in your inbox.

Can I change or cancel my order?

Please contact me as soon as possible if there are any issues with your order at hello@theleatherstoreuk.com. I’ll always do my best to help with any changes. I’m not able to cancel an order once it's been shipped but you are able to return it to me once you receive it.

Delivery

Where do you deliver?

I offer delivery within the UK and international destinations, excluding Northern Ireland and EU member states. If you’re unsure whether I can send to your country, please contact me before ordering.

How much does delivery cost?

Shipping is free within the UK and to all the international destinations I currently serve.

How long will my order take to arrive?

Delivery to the United Kingdom

Orders within the UK (excluding Northern Ireland) are shipped by Royal Mail’s Tracked 48 service, with a signature required on delivery.

DELIVERY TO INTERNATIONAL destinations

Orders to the USA and all International destinations are shipped by Royal Mail.

You can expect to receive your order within 5 to 10 days, depending on your location and your domestic postal services and customs clearance times.

How can I track my order?

Once your order has been shipped, you’ll receive an email with your tracking number.

Will I have to pay customs duties or import taxes?

For orders sent to the USA, all duties and tariffs are paid upfront by The Leather Store. For other international destinations, any customs duties, import taxes or handling fees are the customer's responsibility. These charges are set by the destination country's authorities and are not included in the order price.

If you’re unsure as to what charges may be due on your order, please check with your authorities before making an order.

What happens if I am not available when delivery is attempted?

You’ll be able to track your package and see when it’s out for delivery. If you’re not available to receive it, the courier will usually leave a card or send an email explaining how to arrange redelivery or collection.