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TABLE OF CONTENTS
BRIEF HISTORY
Coach, founded in New York in 1941, is a global fashion house renowned for crafting beautiful, durable items that encourage individuality. Under the creative vision of Stuart Vevers and inspired by New York City's inclusive spirit, Coach creates products designed for people to express their true selves.
The brand believes in crafting high-quality products that promote authenticity and have a positive impact on people, communities, and the planet. Coach's legacy of craftsmanship, inspired by New York's spirit, emphasizes making products to last, with the belief that better-made things create a better future for all. This commitment extends to every aspect of their business, from meticulous product design to sustainable practices.
Coach's rich history began with six artisans hand-crafting leather goods, evolving under the leadership of Lillian and Miles Cahn, and later transformed by designer Bonnie Cashin in the 1960s. Today, Coach continues to celebrate its heritage and American style while fostering a global community of "Coachies" who share a spirit of optimism and courage, driving the brand to innovate for a better future.
Brand Website: coach.com
AUDIENCE & CUSTOMER'S PERSPECTIVE
How would you rate Coach as a brand?
How would you rate Coach as a brand?
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PRODUCTS REVIEWED
Coach Tabby 26: Leather Dreams or Plastic Nightmares?
Coach's Tabby 26
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Coach recently sent us their Tabby 26 shoulder bag for an independent review. Their confidence in our content is evident, and we're excited to give you a thorough analysis. At first glance, the Tabby 26 embodies the classic Coach aesthetic, featuring a consistent and high-quality embossed pebbled leather exterior. As always, Coach's accessories maintain their reputation for durability and style. Inside, you'll find a micro-suede fabric lining that complements the overall craftsmanship. The stitching, edge paint, and other details are on point, but as always, we're here to dig deeper.
DISCLAIMER: The mentioned brand sent this product for FREE. However, we are NOT PAID to do this review. All statements and expressions made about the products are Tanner Leatherstein’s independent review. The brand did not get to see the final video until it was published live. They also agreed to our terms and conditions that we will post our honest review about the brand and/or product and that we might disagree with the information provided in their shop or website.
Tanner Leatherstein’s reviews are not meant to be conclusive or definitive. The purpose of this video is for informational and educational purposes only. We recommend that as a consumer, you exercise your due diligence and research on the products before adopting the opinion of Tanner Leatherstein.
The Leather: Genuine Pebbled or Top Grain?
The label on this bag reads "Genuine Pebble Leather." Now, if you're like me, the term "genuine" might make you cringe a little. It's often used to describe lower-quality leather that has been heavily processed, but in this case, we decided to investigate further.
After a quick acetone test to strip away the top finish, it became clear that this bag is made from top-grain cowhide. The pebbled pattern is embossed, and the leather has a protective pigmented finish—likely polyurethane or acrylic. This type of finish not only standardizes the leather's appearance but also adds durability. So, while the term "genuine leather" might imply something less desirable, Coach has actually used top-grain leather, which is a higher-quality material. In my opinion, Coach would do well to label this as "Top Grain Pebble Leather" to more accurately reflect the quality.
Edge Paint and Durability
One of the first things I checked was the edge paint. It's applied with enough layers and thickness to ensure durability. I tried scratching it off with my fingernail, but it held strong. Even after using a blade, the edge paint didn’t peel away easily—it was bonded well to the leather. This level of quality means the edge paint will likely last a long time, even with regular use.
The Coach Story Piece: A Minor Annoyance
One point that consistently annoys me with Coach products is their use of plastic for the "story piece"—that little emblem that adds a narrative to the bag. In this case, it's a small part of the design, but it would be so much better if it were made from leather. It's a small detail, but one that detracts from the overall quality of the bag in my opinion.
Stain Tests: How Does It Hold Up?
To truly assess the durability of the Coach Tabby 26's leather, I subjected it to a series of common household stains: water, mud, ketchup, and wine. These are typical contaminants a bag might encounter in daily use, so it’s important to see how the leather finish holds up under such conditions.
Applying the Stains
I started by applying water and mud to one section of the leather and letting it sit. Next, I added a smudge of ketchup to another section, making sure to rub it in a bit to simulate an accidental spill. Finally, I poured wine into a third section to see how the leather would react to a liquid that often leaves stubborn stains.
Cleaning the Leather
After letting the stains settle, I used a clean, dry cloth to wipe off each section. Remember, whenever your leather gets dirty, the first step is to gently wipe it off using a clean, dry cloth—preferably a soft fabric or even paper. If the stain is too stubborn, you can use a damp cloth, but avoid soaking the leather. Gently wipe off as much of the residue as possible, and let the leather dry completely before inspecting the results.
Observing the Results
The water and mud mixture cleaned off relatively easily. While a small amount of dust remained in the valleys of the pebbled leather, a quick wipe with a dry cloth took care of it. There was no lasting mark on the leather itself, which speaks to its resistance to dirt and moisture.
The ketchup, despite being rubbed in, was wiped off without leaving any residue. The only concern might be for lighter-colored stitching, as the red pigment could potentially stain the thread. However, the leather itself remained unaffected.
Finally, the wine posed no threat to the leather's finish. After wiping it off, there was no visible damage or discoloration. The protective finish on the leather did its job exceptionally well, keeping the material intact and unmarked.
Cost Analysis: Is It Worth the Price?
Let’s talk numbers. I estimate that about six square feet of leather is used to make this bag, which would cost around $25. Considering the complexity of the bag's construction, the high-quality accessories, and the craftsmanship involved, I would estimate the total production cost to be around $120. With a retail price of $450, the Tabby 26 seems fairly priced. You're paying for top-notch materials and meticulous craftsmanship, both of which are consistent with Coach's reputation.
Final Thoughts: A Fair Price for Quality
Overall, the Coach Tabby 26 is an excellent value for the price. The top-grain pebbled leather is durable and attractive, and the craftsmanship is top-notch. My only real critique is the use of plastic in the story piece, but that's a minor flaw in an otherwise impressive bag. I appreciate Coach's commitment to making quality leather products accessible to a wide audience.
Pillow Talk: The Truth Behind the Coach Pillow Tabby 18
Coach's Pillow Tabby
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The Coach Pillow Tabby 18 bag has garnered attention for its plush, cushiony design and stylish appeal. Advertised as being crafted from Nappa leather, this bag promises a premium quality finish. In this blog post, we will thoroughly examine the construction and material quality of the Pillow Tabby 18 through a detailed analysis and various tests to determine if it lives up to its claims.
DISCLAIMER: This is an UNSPONSORED review. I purchased all of these products myself and am not affiliated with the brand mentioned in any way. All statements and expressions made about the products are solely the opinion of Tanner Leatherstein and are not meant to be conclusive or definitive. The purpose of this video is for informational and educational purposes only. We recommend that as a consumer, you exercise your due diligence and research on the products before adopting the opinion of Tanner Leatherstein.
Design and First Impressions
The Coach Pillow Tabby 18 is visually striking with its soft, puffy design, giving it a distinctive cushion-like appearance. This 'pillow' effect is achieved through a combination of filling materials and the leather's structure, creating a squishy, comfortable texture. Although the outer surface of the bag is labeled as Nappa leather, which is known for its smooth texture and high-quality finish, a closer look reveals that it resembles sheepskin with a Nappa finish. The bag’s design thoughtfully balances comfort and style, enhancing its overall appeal.
Construction Analysis
To assess the authenticity and quality of the materials used in the Pillow Tabby 18, we conducted a series of tests on various components of the bag. Both the outer and inner leather underwent an acetone test to determine if they were dyed through or if they had a pigmented finish. The outer leather, described as Nappa leather, showed that the acetone did not significantly remove the finish, indicating a pigmented Nappa finish. The grain and texture of the leather remained consistent, confirming the use of high-quality lambskin.
In contrast, the interior leather was of a lower quality. We analyzed the pore density of the inner lining, which indicated it was sheepskin—an older and less expensive option compared to the lambskin used on the exterior. The acetone test revealed a lower-quality finish with more pigment covering the raw wet-blue color, confirming that the interior leather was not dyed through but finished to match the outer layer.
The 'pillow' effect of the bag is achieved through a combination of a soft, spongy substance and filling fibers, similar to those found in standard pillows. This design choice enhances the bag’s comfort and appearance, making it a standout piece.
Additionally, the story piece, a small component meant to enhance the bag’s design narrative, was found to be made from PU (polyurethane) rather than leather. This choice is somewhat disappointing, as Coach typically uses leather for these elements. The use of PU appears to be a cost-saving measure that might detract from the bag's overall premium feel.
The hardware and accessories on the Pillow Tabby 18 were subjected to a stress test to evaluate their durability. The metal accessories appear to be made from a flexible metal alloy that bends rather than breaks under stress. This alloy is durable and prevents cracking or rusting, ensuring longevity and maintaining its aesthetic appeal over time.
Cost Analysis
In terms of cost, the estimated expense of the leather used for the Pillow Tabby 18 is approximately $15, considering the lambskin for the outer surface and the cheaper sheepskin for the lining. The total production cost, taking into account the complexity of the design and the quality of the accessories, is estimated to be around $65.
Given that the bag retails for $395, the retail price is significantly higher than the estimated production cost. This premium pricing reflects the brand’s market positioning as well as the overall design and craftsmanship of the bag.
Conclusion
Overall, the Coach Pillow Tabby 18 is a well-made bag featuring a luxurious design and high-quality outer leather. The Nappa leather used on the exterior is authentic and contributes to the bag's premium feel. However, the cheaper interior leather and non-leather story piece are notable drawbacks. Despite these issues, the bag’s craftsmanship, plush design, and durable hardware justify its higher retail price to some extent. If you value style and comfort and can overlook the cost-saving measures on the interior components, the Coach Pillow Tabby 18 is a worthwhile investment.
The Art of Personalization: A Closer Look at Coach’s Made-to-Order Rogue Bag
Coach's Rogue Bag
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If you've ever strolled down 5th Avenue in New York, you'll know it's a haven for luxury shoppers. A few weeks ago, I found myself there, browsing through some of the most renowned leather stores, when I stumbled upon the Coach Signature Store. What caught my eye wasn't just the sleek design and sophisticated layout, but something that many luxury brands shy away from—genuine customization.
DISCLAIMER: This is an UNSPONSORED review. I purchased all of these products myself and am not affiliated with the brand mentioned in any way. All statements and expressions made about the products are solely the opinion of Tanner Leatherstein and are not meant to be conclusive or definitive. The purpose of this video is for informational and educational purposes only. We recommend that as a consumer, you exercise your due diligence and research on the products before adopting the opinion of Tanner Leatherstein.
The Coach Custom Made-to-Order Experience
Coach has established a dedicated space on the third floor of their store where customers can personalize the Rogue bag. The level of customization available is impressive. You can choose everything from the exterior and interior leather to the hardware, colors, and even the type of handles. For those looking to add a unique touch, exotic skins are also an option for the handles. This degree of personalization is quite rare and something you often see in ultra-high-end luxury brands, making the experience not just about purchasing a bag, but about creating one that is uniquely yours.
Among the various leather options, I opted for a Rogue made from what Coach describes as "Natural Leather," a full vegetable-tanned leather with almost no finish. As someone who deeply appreciates the nuances of leather, this was a dream come true. The leather is incredibly natural, showcasing the neck wrinkles and other unique characteristics that give it a distinct personality. While this type of leather might be challenging to keep clean, it promises to age beautifully, developing a patina that tells the story of its journey.
First Impressions: Leather and Craftsmanship
Upon closer inspection, the craftsmanship is immediately evident. The leather is supple yet sturdy, and the stitching is impeccable, with every thread perfectly aligned. The hardware, which has always been a strong point for Coach, feels substantial and of high quality—something that adds to the bag's overall luxurious feel.
However, not everything was perfect. I noticed a slight issue with color migration on the bag. The natural leather had developed a yellowish hue, which I suspected was caused by the interior lining. The lambskin used inside the bag, while luxurious, seemed to have a pigment that bled into the natural leather, causing this discoloration. Additionally, the straps inside the bag showed similar signs of color migration, which was a bit disappointing.
Acetone and Ash Tests
Determined to understand more, I decided to remove the finish from the main body of the leather. What I found was unexpected. While the leather underneath was indeed beautiful full-grain cowhide, the outer finish was more than just a minimal coating—it was a semi-aniline finish with a thin layer of pigment. This discovery raised concerns about the longevity of the leather's appearance, particularly the yellowing issue I mentioned earlier.
The ash test confirmed that the leather was indeed vegetable-tanned, as there were no green hues, which are indicative of chrome tanning. The leather's treatment involved burning like wood and charcoal, aligning with the claims of it being vegetable-tanned. Despite the issues with the finish, the underlying leather remains a high-quality full-grain cowhide.
The color change could be due to a couple of factors. It might be that the bag was initially finished with a yellow overtone that faded when exposed to oxygen and sunlight, or the yellowing could be a reaction to the glue used in the construction of the bag. Regardless of the cause, this issue likely contributed to the significant discount the bag was being offered—a whopping 50% off.
Inside the Rogue
Moving inside the bag, the lambskin lining, while soft and luxurious, was not particularly special. It appeared to be a standard sheepskin, with nothing that stood out as extraordinary. More concerning was the use of PU leather for the interior pockets. While the exterior and most of the interior were crafted from high-quality materials, this synthetic leather felt out of place in a bag of this caliber.
The Cost Breakdown
After carefully evaluating the materials and craftsmanship, I estimated the cost to produce this Rogue bag. With approximately 11 square feet of leather used—seven for the exterior and four for the interior lining—I estimated the leather cost to be around $55. The hardware, which is both abundant and of high quality, along with the labor, added an estimated $125 to the cost. This brings the total estimated production cost to about $180.
Given that the original price of this limited edition Rogue bag was $900, Coach was applying a significant markup, as is typical in luxury goods. However, with the 50% discount, bringing the price down to $450, the deal became much more reasonable, especially considering the level of craftsmanship and customization involved.
The Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?
Coach surprised me with their level of customization and the quality of their craftsmanship. The ability to feel the leather, choose your colors, and even opt for exotic skins without having to navigate the hoops and games that other luxury brands put you through was a refreshing experience.
However, no brand is without its flaws, and Coach is no exception. While their hardware and leather quality are generally excellent, issues like color migration and the use of synthetic materials in certain areas need to be addressed, especially at the higher end of their price range.
If you’re considering a Coach bag, especially one from their custom made-to-order line, I would say it’s worth it—provided you’re aware of what you’re getting. The craftsmanship is there, and the ability to customize your bag is a fantastic feature. Just be mindful of potential issues, and if possible, inspect the bag thoroughly before making your purchase.
In the end, whether a Coach bag is worth it comes down to your priorities. If you value customization, quality hardware, and a hands-on design process, Coach is a solid choice. But if you’re a stickler for flawless finishes and top-tier interior materials, you might want to look elsewhere or wait for a sale to make the price more palatable.
Glove-Tanned Truths: A Closer Look at the Coach Theo Bag
Coach's Theo Bag
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Yesterday, I visited the Coach store and fell for a bag that really stood out—the Coach Theo. It had an effortless balance of classic design and modern flair, but what really drew me in was the supposed "glove-tanned" leather. Now, I've been around enough leather to know the quality when I see it, and at first glance, this leather looked promising. But a few details gave me pause, and I thought it’d be worth breaking down the bag’s value in detail, especially for those of us who appreciate transparency in materials.
The Inside Story: Fabric vs. Suede
I visited the Coach store yesterday, and the Theo bag immediately caught my attention. One major disappointment, though, came when I looked inside. The sales associate mentioned that it was crafted from "glove-tanned" leather and had a suede interior, which immediately piqued my interest. But once I got home and inspected it, it was obvious that this was not suede—it was fabric. Now, this isn't necessarily a dealbreaker, but being misled about the materials isn't something I take lightly. Fabric interiors are common, even in luxury bags, but when a brand says suede, you expect suede.
Moreover, the story patch inside—typically a great touch of craftsmanship—was made of polyurethane (PU) leather instead of real leather. For a brand like Coach, which is synonymous with leather goods, using PU leather for such a prominent detail feels like a shortcut. The story patch is part of the experience of owning a Coach bag, and I wish they had stuck to full leather.
Materials and Labor: What’s the Real Cost?
When it comes to the breakdown of materials, I estimate the leather used for the Coach Theo bag to be around six square feet, which at $5 per square foot adds up to about $30. The brass hardware, which is of exceptional quality, adds another $30, considering the amount and intricacy involved in its design. In terms of labor, given the solid craftsmanship and the detailed assembly, I would estimate that around $70 went into putting this bag together. The stitching is precise, and the overall structure of the bag is well-executed.
All things considered, the total cost for materials and labor would come to approximately $130. For a bag that I purchased for $450, this suggests a reasonable markup, especially when factoring in the quality of the leather, hardware, and construction.
Final Thoughts
There’s a lot to love about the Coach Theo bag. The leather feels fantastic, and the brass hardware is a standout feature. For a bag that cost $450, and with $130 going into materials and labor, the markup feels reasonable in today’s leather goods market. However, the fabric interior and the use of PU leather for the story patch leave a sour taste. If you’re buying a leather bag, you want leather in all the key places—especially inside, where you interact with the material most.
Would I still buy the Theo again? Probably, but I’d go in with tempered expectations. Coach delivered on the craftsmanship, but they fell short on the details that could have taken this bag from good to exceptional.
For anyone in the market for a sturdy, stylish leather bag, the Theo is a solid option. Just be sure to ask all the right questions before making your purchase—especially about the materials inside!
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