Patina.

I’ve long been fascinated by the aesthetic described as “patina”.

Patina is the effect on a surface material after it has been weathered, oxidized or otherwise worn by the elements for many years. You find it on the surface of copper, metal or even leather. Its beauty is only achieved by extended time and exposure to harsh or unkind elements. Otherwise strong, durable and sturdy materials are changed slowly over time.

I recently visited the new Hermes flagship on Madison Avenue in New York City. I received a personal tour and while the whole store was met with woos and awes, one detail in particular struck me. The store design team had selected a specific emerald colored bamboo wood to line the caseline from which the thousand dollar belts are displayed and sold. In and of itself this is not a show stopping detail however it was not lost on me that this material selection was delicate, expensive and would undoubtedly patina with age. This luxury giant of a Maison knows the value of patina - the beauty and richness only achieved by coupling a strong material with high touch environments and years of wear. This distinct beauty will be realized slowly over time. The selection of fine quality materials and goods to be used in a common way, treated with less preciousness is an ultimate luxury.

In selecting clothing, I think of patina. Select better quality pieces and wear them on life’s journey. The patina on your leather boots or jacket may tell stories to future generations. The instinct after purchasing a high cost item is to save it for special occasions. I say embrace the patina that comes with age and wear and know that only fine quality goods will live to tell the tales. There is a special texture of beauty on items that were crafted with strength and care and have been lovingly worn for years to achieve a high touch patina. Fast fashion and trendy items with fall apart long before they wear apart. There is value in artisanship and finely crafted goods.