From Savannah to Runway:
Ostrich Leather Collection
KINGS & CARTELS
First prized by the ancient Egyptians for its strength and durability, ostrich leather has long been considered as a symbol of luxury and prestige. Alongside the flightless bird’s feathers – which were once fashioned into fans for pharaohs – it continued to be crafted into lasting garments, footwear and accessories, however it wasn’t commercially farmed until the 1850s.
The increased availability of ostrich hide led to a more widespread use, but interest declined after the first world war, and despite featuring throughout Rolls-Royce interiors during the 1930s, it didn’t achieve mainstream popularity until cowboy boots made a comeback in the 1970s. During the following decade, demand reached an all time high thanks to the advent of maximalist fashion, however due to the cartel trading monopoly in South Africa, supply was limited until apartheid ended in the 90s. Today, ostrich farms can be found across the world, with the leather produced in South Africa still widely regarded as the very best.
UNIQUE AESTHETIC
Ostrich leather’s luxurious appeal lies in the perfect blend of its relative scarcity and instantly recognisable textured bumps, which are actually quill follicles. This unique texture sets it apart from other types of leather and makes it a distinctive and coveted material in the style industry, favoured by prestigious fashion houses including Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Saint Laurent.
Renowned leather goods brands, including Hermes and Bvlgari, use ostrich leather to create the most sought-after handbags and accessories, as the material’s softness and natural durability means it’s ideal for crafting high-quality collections that stand the test of time. As a result, ostrich leather can often be found on the arms of A-list celebrities, fashion icons, and members of the glitterati, further enhancing its allure and status.
OSTRICH LEATHER’S LUXURIOUS APPEAL LIES IN THE PERFECT BLEND OF ITS RELATIVE SCARCITY AND INSTANTLY RECOGNISABLE TEXTURED BUMPS
TIMELESS INSPIRATION
Although it still graces runways and exclusive boutiques, a growing number of high-end brands no longer use ostrich leather – along with other exotic skin – in response to modern attitudes and increased concern for animal welfare. Influential department stores such as Macy’s in New York have also now ceased to sell ostrich hide goods, however it does continue to serve as a timeless inspiration for countless designs.
Ostrich embossed leather, which is featured throughout Etier collections, provides a contemporary and ethical alternative, as it mirrors the unique look and feel of the natural skin while being much easier to maintain. Bringing together the best of British design with the durability of premium leather, our beautifully crafted collections can also be enjoyed for many years to come – a fitting homage to the colossal bird that’s seen as a lasting symbol of strength.
