What are the patina rules? (Help me decide what to do with this ol' LV)

[miacostigan]

I just recently acquired this 14 year old speedy 30. She is in great condition for her age and is just wonderful, except for a zipper that had been changed. My other concern is the patina. I personally think it's wonderful, I love the color, however I am not crazy about the obvious contrast between the top of the handles and the bottom, where is is still a lighter color. See?

I was possibly considering (don't shoot me!) using olive oil on the bottom less-patinad areas in order to hopefully create a more even look. I'd read olive oil helps patina LVs. What are the general rules for this... is all patina good, and it should never be messed with? I know it gives bags originality, but I want to know what you think.

 

[LeahLVoes]

If the Canvas is fine I would think about a leather replacement... So you can give it another try with patina. Also it will be like brand new.

 

[viacarolina2394]

If the Canvas is fine I would think about a leather replacement... So you can give it another try with patina. Also it will be like brand new.

+1 I love leather patina but I do not think this patina is well taken care of

 

[sarahloveslouis]

This isn't just patina IMO - it looks like dirt.

I'd spring for a leather replacement in this case.

 

[Elliespurse]

I think it looks great as it is, the vachetta changes over the years. It's like a piece of LV history imho

 

[midg613]

FYI, just make sure there is no cracking in the leather where the zipper is ...LV will not replace any hardware or do any repairs if the leather canvas is cracked.

 

[miacostigan]

Thanks for feedback. For those who said it looks like dirt, brings to mind the idea - is there any way for me to clean it myself? :\

 

[cherrycookies]

+1 i love leather patina but i do not think this patina is well taken care of

+1

 

[Elliespurse]

The vachetta leather has a smooth finish and usually methods to clean it takes away this finish and leaves it matte and a bit grey..

 

[miacostigan]

Well it sounds like this is simply a case of patina gone wrong, and unless I want to dish out some cash to replace it I'm fresh out of luck. I don't mind though, I still think for 14 years old it looks amazing, and I'm super happy with the purchase

 

[lvaddict89]

Get the Lovin my bags cleanser. There's a Ton of dirt on the handles. Either that or maybe baby wipes.. But don't put oil on leather. That's terrible for it.

 

[miacostigan]

Get the Lovin my bags cleanser. There's a Ton of dirt on the handles. Either that or maybe baby wipes.. But don't put oil on leather. That's terrible for it.

I will try to gently clean it myself using one of these methods. I'll post before & after pics once I have the time