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SALVATORE FERRAGAMO
- Jun 5
- 13 min read
Updated: Jun 5
Brand Scorecard:
★★★★☆
Leather: 5
Hardware: 5
Design: 5
Engineering: 5
Craftsmanship: 5
TOTAL: 5
Brand Website: ferragamo.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
BRIEF HISTORY
Salvatore Ferragamo S.p.A., established in 1927, is the parent company of the Ferragamo Group, a global leader in luxury fashion. Renowned for its unique blend of style, creativity, and innovation, the Group specializes in designing, producing, and selling shoes, leather goods, apparel, silk products, and other accessories for men and women. Additionally, its product line includes eyewear, watches, and perfumes manufactured by licensed partners. Since the 1960s, Ferragamo products have been crafted in select workshops, emphasizing the quality and craftsmanship synonymous with Italian-made goods.
The Ferragamo Group operates across Europe, the Americas, and Asia, utilizing a network of directly operated mono-brand stores (DOS), third-party operated stores or corners (TPOS), and partnerships with prestigious multi-brand department and specialty stores. This extensive distribution network spans over 90 countries, ensuring the brand’s presence in both retail and wholesale markets worldwide.
FIVE PILLARS OF A GOOD LEATHERCRAFT
READING MY ASSESSMENT SCORES
LEATHERVERSE MATRIX
The Leatherverse Brand Matrix visually compares leather brands based on sophistication and pricing, helping consumers understand their market positioning.
Legend
Vertical Axis: Ranges from simple artisan crafts to exclusive, master-crafted items.
Horizontal Axis: Covers pricing from low (no brand premium) to high (perceived luxury), with 2x multipliers for basic products and up to 15x for heavily marketed luxury items.
Diagonal Line: Represents the balance between price and performance. Brands on the line offer good value, those below suggest poor value, and those above offer exceptional value.
AUDIENCE & CUSTOMER'S PERSPECTIVE
How would you rate Salvatore Ferragamo as a brand?
How would you rate Salvatore Ferragamo as a brand?
5
4
3
2
PRODUCTS REVIEWED
$2400 Salvatore Ferragamo Bag Dissected—A Real Leather Expert's Review
Salvatore Ferragamo's Studio Box Bag
Watch the videos here:
When it comes to luxury bags, the price tags can be quite steep. It's not uncommon to see designer leather bags that cost thousands of dollars since luxury brands are known for their exceptional craftsmanship, stunning designs, and high price tags. But for me, the price doesn't always equate to quality.
As someone who has spent 20 years in the tannery business, I know a thing or two about leather quality. That's why I was particularly intrigued when I stumbled upon a luxury leather bag that not only had a great price point but also had a finish that I would typically shy away from. I'm talking about the Salvatore Ferragamo brand, and I can't wait to share with you why it stands out among its high-end competitors.
As a luxury-ignorant person, I discovered Salvatore Ferragamo, an Italian luxury brand, in the most unexpected way. After purchasing a fake leather jacket from an old friend, I came across the brand's logo in an airport and realized my mistake. Despite the guilt, I still wear the jacket to this day. Fast forward a few years, I purchased the Ferragamo Studio Box bag and have been admiring it from afar. It's time to see what's under the hood and take a closer look at this beautiful bag.
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.
Let's start with the price. At €795, the Salvatore Ferragamo Studio Box Bag may sound like a lot of money, but in comparison to other luxury bags, it's a steal. What's even more impressive is that the brand offers discounts on its bags, which is uncommon in the luxury space. While the price point was what caught my attention initially, it was the quality of the bag that made me a fan.
The Ferragamo Studio Box bag is a structured, rectangular-shaped bag that is available in various colors. I opted for the pink one because it was at a 50% discount. The bag has a top handle and a detachable strap for versatile wear. The hardware is made of alloy, and the interior is lined with leather. As I began exploring the bag's interior, I noticed the attention to detail in the bag's construction. The lining is impeccably sewn. The detachable strap feels sturdy, providing a sense of security when wearing the bag crossbody.
The leather is heavily constructed yet surprisingly soft to the touch. As someone who typically dislikes heavily-finished leathers, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked the feel of this one. The finish speaks to the master behind it, and I have to give credit where credit is due.
The bag's exterior is just as impressive as the interior. The top handle is the perfect size for carrying the bag by hand, and the rectangular shape of the bag ensures it won't easily tip over. The bag's design is minimalistic and timeless, making it a perfect investment piece. The bag can easily transition from day to night, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe. After disassembling the bag, I can attest to the quality of the construction and materials used.
As I mentioned before, I know a thing or two about leather quality. I've spent my fair share of time in tanneries, so I can spot an inferior hide from a mile away. When it comes to heavily-finished leathers, I find that tanneries can use lower-grade leathers to achieve the desired look. But I have to say, the heavy coat of finish on the Studio Box bag doesn't feel cheap or of low quality. It's a testament to how well the leather has been treated and finished that it can still feel soft and supple.
Now, let's dive deeper into the design of the Stuido Box bag. At first glance, it may seem simple, but don't be fooled. The bag has intricate details like a series of metal studs and a beautiful leather-wrapped handle. The design is understated in the best way possible, with no overly flashy branding. It's a bag for those who appreciate quality and design without needing to flaunt a designer label.
It's also worth mentioning that the brand offers a larger version of the same design in alligator leather, but at a whopping $30,000 price tag. While I can't speak to the quality of that bag specifically, it's clear that the brand takes luxury seriously. The fact that they still offer discounts on their bags while maintaining high standards is a testament to the brand's dedication to its customers.
Conclusion
In a sea of luxury leather bags that cost thousands of dollars, the Studio Box bag from Salvatore Ferragamo stands out for its high-quality leather and craftsmanship. As someone who typically shies away from heavily-finished leathers, I was surprised by how much I liked the feel of this one. The brand's dedication to luxury and design is clear, and I have no doubt that the Studio Box bag will continue to impress those who invest in it.
Salvatore Ferragamo is known for its exceptional craftsmanship, which is evident in the quality of their leather bags. The brand takes great pride in using only the finest materials and techniques to create beautiful, timeless pieces that are sure to last. From hand-stitching to intricate detailing, each bag is crafted with precision and attention to detail.
The Ferragamo Studio Box bag is a stunning piece of craftsmanship that will stand the test of time. From the premium materials to the impeccable construction, the bag is worth every penny if you're into luxury goods. Despite my initial hesitation to dissect the bag, I'm glad I did to see the mastery that goes into creating these luxury items. If you're considering investing in a designer bag, the Ferragamo Studio Box bag is one to consider. It's a timeless, versatile, and beautiful bag that will undoubtedly elevate any outfit.
Step Inside Ferragamo: The Genius Behind the Tramezza Shoe
Salvatore Ferragamo's Tramezza Shoe
Watch the videos here:
Shoe Reviews: A Surprising Hit
Every time I post a shoe review, it blows up—millions of views, outperforming my bag videos every single time. It’s clear you all love shoes. And honestly? So do I. But here's the thing: while I’ve spent years learning the ins and outs of leather bags, shoes are a whole different animal. Different construction, different stresses, and a whole different level of precision.
That gap in knowledge held me back. I didn’t want to just wing it. If I was going to go deeper into the world of shoes, I wanted to learn from someone who really knew the craft.
DISCLAIMER: This video is a paid partnership with Ferragamo. The brand provided the Tramezza shoes and also supported the production of this video. However, all opinions, analysis, and commentary are entirely my own—based on my experience as a leather expert and craftsman.
Enter: Ferragamo, Hollywood’s Original Cobbler
As I was thinking about where to start, a name popped into my head: Salvatore Ferragamo. I’d reviewed one of their bags before, but Ferragamo wasn’t just a luxury brand name on a label. This man was the cobbler to Hollywood’s golden era. Marilyn Monroe’s shoes? His. He literally invented shoemaking techniques that are still being used today.
So I shot my shot. I reached out. Honestly, I didn’t expect anything. Legacy luxury brands rarely respond to folks like me. But Ferragamo surprised me. Not only did they reply—they sent me their signature Tramezza shoe and included a confidential, technical document explaining how it’s made.
First Impressions: Elegance in a Box
Opening the box felt like a moment. The Tramezza shoes looked elegant and sharp—pure class. And even though I’ve taken apart bags that cost more than these shoes, my hands were shaking a little just holding them. That’s the power of craftsmanship. You can feel when something’s been made with intention.
Of course, I had to try them on. Spoiler: they’re two sizes too small. Shh… don’t tell Ferragamo.
Tramezza Construction: A Goodyear, Elevated
Let’s talk construction. The Tramezza is rooted in the Goodyear welt, a gold standard for shoemaking. For the uninitiated, a Goodyear welt involves stitching a strip of leather (the “welt”) to both the upper and the insole. Then, the outsole gets stitched to the welt. This creates a durable, easily resoleable construction.
But Ferragamo adds a twist. “Tramezza” means “in-between” in Italian, and in this shoe, it refers to an extra layer sandwiched between the insole and outsole. Think of it like a bonus layer of support and comfort.
Inside the shoe, the construction begins with the insole, followed by a steel shank that adds stability. Then comes the Tramezza layer itself, which adds structure and cushioning, before everything is topped off with a leather outsole. All of these layers are stitched together twice—first, the insole and the welt are joined using a Goodyear machine. Then, the upper, welt, and outsole are sewn together again using a technique called a “rapid” stitch.
The result is a shoe that has all the strength and resoleability of a traditional Goodyear welt, but with added flexibility and comfort that molds to your foot over time. It’s a thoughtful evolution of a classic technique—one that blends durability with luxury wearability.
Time to Dissect: What’s the Leather Telling Me?
I applied acetone to the upper leather—and it absorbed it immediately. That tells us there’s no plastic coating on top. Just aniline dye. Pure, honest leather. It’s gorgeous.
Moving inside, the lining is also beautifully done. Looks like calf leather again—likely top grain—buffed slightly with a light protective finish. Even on the inside, Ferragamo is using top-tier cuts and taking no shortcuts.
Every stitch? Clean. Every cut? Precise. The outsole is hand-stained, which is the kind of detail most people will never notice—but real artisans still do it. That tells you everything about the brand’s values.
So… Any Criticisms?
None. And you know I try to find them—especially when we're talking about premium prices. But here? From the leather to the technique, from the feel to the finish—Ferragamo nailed it.
I don’t yet know the exact cost of making a Tramezza shoe, but I can tell you one thing: they’re using a lot of leather. And good leather. Inside, outside, and in between. This is not a quick-assembly, fast-fashion product. This is art.
Ferragamo: A New Level of Respect
I gained real respect for Ferragamo through this. They didn’t just open the door—they showed me the whole blueprint. That kind of transparency is rare in luxury, and it speaks volumes about their pride in craftsmanship.
This dissection lit a new fire. I’m genuinely curious about the rest of their line now. I’ll be keeping the conversation going—and maybe on my next travels, I’ll stop into a Ferragamo boutique, try on the right size, and probably end up buying a pair. That's the danger of dissecting great products… you end up wanting them.
Your Turn: What Would You Ask a Ferragamo Craftsman?
I might get the chance to connect with someone from their team again. So here’s my question for you:
If you had the chance to ask one of Ferragamo’s master shoemakers anything, what would it be?
Drop it in the comments. I’ll collect the best ones and try to pass them along.
How Ferragamo Quietly Made One of the Best Luxury Bags of the Year
Salvatore Ferragamo's Hug Bag
Last month, I dissected a $1500 pair of Ferragamo shoes and was thoroughly impressed—not just by the product but also by the overwhelming positive feedback from loyal Ferragamo customers. Among the many comments, one request stood out repeatedly: to review the Soft Hug Bag, one of Ferragamo’s hottest and most luxurious pieces priced at €2400. Initially, I hesitated to purchase it just for a review, but then Ferragamo reached out to me directly and offered to send the bag for an honest dissection. This rare gesture of trust is noteworthy and reflects the brand’s confidence in their craftsmanship. Excited and curious, I began the detailed review of the Soft Hug Bag.
DISCLAIMER: This video is a paid partnership with Ferragamo. The brand provided the Hug bag and also supported the production of this video. However, all opinions, analysis, and commentary are entirely my own—based on my experience as a leather expert and craftsman.
Design: Elegant and Luxurious from Every Angle
From the moment I unpacked the bag, the design impressed me. The soft gray outer leather contrasted beautifully with the deep red interior lining, creating an elegant and luxurious visual statement. The bag stands with a distinct silhouette that feels both iconic and modern. Its look and feel communicate high luxury effortlessly, making the design one of the strongest points of this bag. I gave it a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for its stunning aesthetic and timeless appeal.
Leather Quality: Pure Aniline Calfskin Excellence
The leather on the Soft Hug Bag is what I would call “hand candy.” The exterior is made of soft, natural grain aniline calfskin, a rare and premium leather that passed the acetone test with zero paint or coating, confirming its authenticity. The interior lining is crafted from fine lambskin, pigmented to highlight its natural grain, which is typical for luxurious linings. These leather choices are not only beautiful but also expensive—the leather alone is estimated to cost about €185. Given the softness, quality, and authenticity, the leather quality easily deserves a full 5-star rating.
Craftsmanship: Impeccable Attention to Detail
Examining the bag inside and out revealed flawless craftsmanship. The stitching is precise with no loose threads, and the finishing inside matches the sophistication of the exterior. This level of workmanship is what one expects from something proudly labeled “Made in Italy.” Honestly, the Italian government could set this bag as the benchmark for what “Made in Italy” should mean. Every detail reflects care and skill, earning the craftsmanship a perfect score of 5.
Structure: Ingenious Support for a Soft Silhouette
Despite its soft and slouchy appearance, the bag stands firmly, thanks to a clever internal structure. The support materials are designed to curve and bow in specific ways, allowing the bag to maintain its shape while still having a relaxed silhouette. This type of structural engineering requires both creativity and technical expertise to execute flawlessly. Seeing how the structure allows the bag to hug softly yet stand tall was impressive, and the structure aspect also earned a 5 out of 5.
Hardware: Durable, Elegant, and High Quality
The hardware on the Soft Hug Bag is clearly high-end. Made from stainless steel with a PVD coating, it resists wear without needing an additional protective layer, signaling top-tier quality. The logo engraving is crisp and clean, reinforcing the luxury feel. With lots of hardware elements on the bag, I estimate the hardware cost to be around €25. This durability and finish make the hardware deserving of a full score of 5.
Cost Breakdown and Value Analysis
Looking at the estimated costs to produce this bag, the leather comes to approximately €185, hardware around €25, and assembly—considering the skill and complexity involved—about €145. Altogether, that brings the production cost to roughly €355. With a retail price of €2400 (VAT included), Ferragamo’s net revenue after VAT is about €1960, resulting in a pricing multiplier of about 5.5X. For luxury goods, a fair multiplier is usually between 3X and 5X when considering leather and craftsmanship alone. A 5.5 multiplier for a product of this quality, backed by a global brand, actually represents excellent value, one of the best I’ve seen in the luxury market.
Final Thoughts: A Perfect Score Across the Board
To summarize the scores: Design 5/5, Leather 5/5, Craftsmanship 5/5, Structure 5/5, and Hardware 5/5—giving the Soft Hug Bag a perfect average 5 out of 5. This bag not only meets but exceeds expectations for a luxury handbag in this price range. Ferragamo’s transparency in sending it for dissection shows confidence and pride in their product. It’s clear they know exactly what goes into their bags and stand firmly behind their quality. For anyone considering a high-end leather bag, the Soft Hug Bag represents a perfect blend of luxury, craftsmanship, and value.
A Call to Ferragamo: Let’s Explore the Craftsmanship Together
Ferragamo, if you are listening, I would love the opportunity to go deeper and explore how you manage to maintain such exceptional quality on a global scale. Understanding your design and production process could offer valuable insights not just to me and my audience, but also to the luxury industry at large. If given the chance, I would document the entire journey here. Until then, to all readers and viewers—stay curious, stay critical, and above all, stay leathertained.
Scorecard
TANNER'S APPROVED
★★★★★ - 5
