Leather jackets or purses, Istanbul

[H2Otstr]

Has anyone purchased either a leather jacket or purse in Istanbul? If so, any suggestions on where to shop?

 

My husband purchased a beautiful leather coat in Kusadasi several years ago. Looking to get one for myself in Istanbul this trip.

 

Sharon

[maryann ns]

There were lots in the main bazaar. Just prepare to bargain hard. Walk away from the first few places until you get an idea of the bottom line prices. A friend of ours made two trips and got something like six leather jackets or coats. I finally found one in Bodrum.

[eclue]

We purchased both a little over a year ago and we are returning to Istanbul in April.

Go to the Arasta Bazaar which is located behind the Blue Mosque...walk down on the right side is a handbag store called Fame....he has gorgeous leather handbags..I bought 6...took one with me and he shipped the rest to arrive afer I returned home...Ask for Emrah....he took us to a leather good store down the street and also on the right side. My husband pickd out a leather jacket and they fitted it to him perfectly..We went back in one hour and picked it up...beautiful leather and good prices.

I have kept in touch with Emrah and looking forward to seeing him in April to see his new handbag collection.....

eclue:o

[kikki21]

Can you advise what sort of prices you paid for a bag and a leather jacket please?

My mum is after a bag and well it would be rude of me not to have one either! lol :rolleyes:

[eclue]

We paid about $120 for the leather jacket.....you do need to bargain for the price.

The handbags were various prices from $100 up to $300....the leather is wonderful. I think the quality was much higher than that found in the Grand Bazaar.

eclue:o

[cruisemom42]

I agree that Arasta bazaar is the place for higher quality goods.

 

I haven't shopped for just leather, but I have bought a couple of high-quality and distinctive purses made from antique kelims (pieces of carpet) with leather trim -- on two separate trips -- and they have worn beautifully over time. Both were in the $100 to $150 range a few years ago.

[kikki21]

Thank you both for the prices.... I have always been impressed with Turkish leather, it wears very well! :)

[H2Otstr]

Thanks for all the great information. I hope that I find a jacket &/or a purse while I am there :D.

[UKBayern]

Our Turkish guide had a very good tip: do not buy the cheaper coats or shoes made out of goat leather. If they get wet in the rain, guess what you start to smell of....

[palermo22]

For those of you that have purchased leather in Turkey or have at least handled it - and if by chance you are familiar with Argentine leather - how would you compare the Turkish leather to the Argentine leather?

[eclue]

The higher quality Turkish leather is about the same as higher quality Agentinian....It is all about grade and quality. Turkish leather jackets have a good " feel" to them as do most of the purses. It is also a matter of personal choice.

eclue:)