Faux leather is a synthetic or partly synthetic material that imitates genuine leather: a woven or non-woven base is coated with a polymer layer (polyurethane, less often PVC) embossed with a 'leather' grain. Its chief advantages are ethics (no animals), lower price, light weight, colour-fastness and easy wiping clean. Faux leather is widely used in jackets, skirts, trousers, bags and footwear. Its limits: it breathes less well and can crack or peel over time at flex points, especially cheap PVC versions. Modern polyurethane and plant-based alternatives are increasingly high-quality and durable.
