Cheap Chic? Recession Dressing "To Dye For"
At-Home Leather Accessory Color Change - Dyeing Belts, Bags, Shoes
Sep 22, 2009
Recycling's in. And, it's amazing how sleek a pair of clunky white sandals or a dated pink belt can look after having been dyed black. However, before slathering on the leather dye, there's one thing to consider: do-it-yourself color changes (whether one's own hair, or an old belt) can be fun, but messy. And, if the final result isn't great, then what?
Leather Accessories "To Dye For": What (and What Not) to Dye
Some leather shoes, and belts are just "to dye for." Literally.
Sad, abandoned leather items --those ones with potential but no life--lurk everywhere. One can find them in the hamper, grandma's closet, a thrift store. Practically speaking, the best items to dye are new or unscuffed leather goods--but these are also the most expensive. So, for the purposes of recession dressing, think pre-worn.
When dyeing something that is used or secondhand, thoroughly clean it with a leather cleaner the day before dyeing it. Be forewarned: as with wall paint, any pre-existing marks will show through all but the lightest colors.
Go from a lighter to a darker color. Experiments in going from a darker to a lighter color are likely destined for the garbage bin. As much as the idea of transforming a black leather jacket into bright yellow might appeal, resist this temptation. Note that shoe dye will not work on suede.
Finally, choose small items. Don't try to change the color of a large garment, such as leather pants or a leather jacket; it will show streaking.
Finding Unusual Colors of Leather Dye.
Standard colors of shoe dye, such as black, brown and white, are available at shoe repair stores and online. On a lucky day, one might find bright red or navy blue, too.
But those who seek inspiration in a broader palette must search online. A spray-on brand of leather dye named Magix can be ordered online for $10 per can. The brand comes in hues ranging from fuschia to turquoise to a taupe color called, evocatively, “smoked elk.” (Magix generally supplies theater companies.)
Before Starting
It’s important to dye the items in a well-ventilated space, preferably outside. And it might make sense to practice on something disposable before moving on to that masterpiece belt, bag, or pair of 1960s boots.
Materials to Assemble Before Dyeing.
Before starting, assemble:
- The item(s) to be dyed, well cleaned
- A bottle of dye (one bottle will suffice for five pairs of shoes) and sponge applicator
- Leather conditioner for sealing in the color (it’s essential, otherwise the dye may run)
- Plastic gloves (its almost impossible not to get one's fingers dirty)
- Nail polish or paint remover to clean up afterwards
- An old newspaper (preferably a Sunday newspaper; it's better to have too much than too little).
Drawbacks to Dyeing, Recession or Not
To dye or not to dye, that is the question. Of course, dyeing is just one way to tackle wardrobe makeovers in a post-recession economy.
Allison Houtte, owner of a vintage shop and co-author of a book called "Alligators, Old Mink and New Money," prefers to buy vintage goods and spiff them up. "Dyeing," she warns, “can get a little messy; when you start to deal with leathers and stuff, leave that to the professionals.” She adds, “One of my big tricks is to use a little buffer with a little oil,” available for about $2 at local shoe repair shop. “I buff up my handbags and old vintage pieces, and leather boots," she says.
The oldest tip in the fashion book is to wear two items of matching colors. In a recession, it's tempting to try to spiff up a tired-looking wardrobe by using leather dye to update leather belts, shoes, or bags. And, if well done, it can be a fun, eco-friendly way to upgrade seasonal outfits. But to end up with a cheap chic accessory, it's smart to practice first.
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