Accessories Buying Guide

Authorised UK stockist 📍 44 Barrow Street, St Helens, WA10 1RY 📞 01744 730985 🕘 Mon–Sat 9am–5pm ★★★★★ 4.6 2,387 reviews on Reviews.io

Comparing leather grades when buying accessories

Accessories Buying Guide

Material choices and how to choose wallets, belts and bags

OD's Designer Clothing · Knowledge Hubs

This hub turns the vocabulary into decisions. It sets out the key material comparisons and how to choose the right wallet, belt and bag for how you actually live, grouped by material choices and by product.

Material choices

Full-Grain vs Top-Grain Leather

Choosing between the two highest leather grades.

What it is

The choice is between full-grain, which keeps the natural surface and patinas, and top-grain, sanded for a uniform, slightly softer finish.

Why it matters

Full-grain rewards those who want maximum durability and ageing; top-grain suits those wanting a consistent look.

Leather vs Vegan Leather

Weighing real leather against leather-look alternatives.

What it is

The choice is between animal-hide leather, which lasts and patinas, and vegan leather, which avoids animal products and can be lighter and easy-clean.

Why it matters

It comes down to values, budget and how long you want the piece to last, as durability varies by vegan grade.

Canvas vs Leather Bags

Choosing a bag material for weight and use.

What it is

The choice is between canvas, which is light, casual and often waxed for weather, and leather, which is structured, smart and long-lasting.

Why it matters

Canvas suits relaxed, rugged use; leather suits smarter looks and heirloom longevity.

Choosing wallets and belts

Wallet Buying Guide

Matching wallet type to what you carry.

What it is

Choosing a wallet means matching card, note and coin needs to a card holder, billfold or coin wallet, then picking leather and size.

Why it matters

The right match keeps the wallet slim and usable. Browse wallets and card holders (/collections/mens-wallets-card-holders).

Belt Buying Guide

Choosing belt style, leather and buckle.

What it is

Choosing a belt means matching formality, picking leather quality and buckle type, and sizing to the middle hole.

Why it matters

A well-chosen belt finishes an outfit and lasts for years. Browse men's belts (/collections/mens-belts).

Choosing Belt Width

Matching belt width to trousers and occasion.

What it is

Belt width is measured across the strap; narrower belts around 3cm suit tailoring, wider belts around 3.5-4cm suit casual and denim.

Why it matters

Width should match the belt loops and the formality of the trousers for a balanced look.

RFID Wallet Guide

Deciding whether RFID protection is for you.

What it is

An RFID wallet adds a shielding layer that blocks contactless cards being read wirelessly at close range.

Why it matters

It suits those who want extra card security and peace of mind in busy places.

Choosing bags

Choosing Bag Size

Sizing a bag to daily, work or travel use.

What it is

Choosing bag size means matching capacity and layout to your load, from a small crossbody to a work bag or holdall.

Why it matters

The right size carries what you need without bulk. Browse men's bags (/collections/mens-bags).

Everyday Carry Guide

Building a practical daily kit and the bag for it.

What it is

Everyday carry is the set of items you take out daily -- wallet, keys, phone, tech -- and the bag that organises them.

Why it matters

Choosing a bag around your real carry keeps daily life tidy and quick.

Travel Bag Buying Guide

Choosing a holdall or backpack for trips.

What it is

A travel bag is chosen on cabin-friendly size, tough material and a layout that packs and accesses easily.

Why it matters

The right travel bag saves checking luggage and survives hard trips. Browse men's bags (/collections/mens-bags).

Frequently asked questions

Should I buy full-grain or top-grain leather?

Choose full-grain if you want the most durable leather that develops a rich patina and can last decades. Choose top-grain if you prefer a more uniform, slightly softer finish; it is still high quality but ages a little less characterfully.

What belt width should I choose?

Narrower belts around 3cm suit tailoring and dress trousers, while wider belts around 3.5 to 4cm suit casual wear and denim. The belt should also fit your trouser loops, so check width against the loops before buying.

How do I choose the right bag size?

Match capacity to your real load: a small crossbody for essentials, a 13 to 16 inch work bag for a laptop and documents, or a holdall or 25 to 35 litre backpack for travel. Buying to your actual carry avoids both bulk and shortfall.

Get the next guide first
New accessory guides, restocks and the occasional buyer's tip -- straight to your inbox. No spam.
Unsubscribe any time. We never share your details.