Why the Leather Finish Matters
When choosing an Eames Lounge Chair, most buyers focus on the shell veneer and base — and rightly so. But the leather finish on the cushions is arguably the most important decision you'll make. It's the surface you'll touch every day, the material that will age most visibly over time, and the detail that most directly communicates the character of the chair in your space.
At Aura Furnitures, our Eames Lounge Chair collection is available in two premium full-grain leather finishes: Italian leather and waxed leather. Both are genuine, high-quality options — but they suit different interiors, different lifestyles, and different aesthetic sensibilities.
What Is Italian Leather?
Italian leather refers to full-grain or top-grain leather that has been tanned and finished using traditional methods developed in Italy's leather-working regions — particularly Tuscany, where the Santa Croce sull'Arno district has been producing leather for centuries.
The defining characteristics of Italian leather are:
- Smooth, refined surface: The grain is tight and consistent, with a subtle sheen that reads as polished without being glossy
- Supple hand feel: Italian leather is typically softer and more pliable than other full-grain leathers, making it immediately comfortable without a long break-in period
- Rich, even colour: The dyeing process penetrates deeply and evenly, producing consistent colour across the entire hide
- Gradual patina: Over time, Italian leather develops a warm, burnished patina that deepens the colour and adds character
What Is Waxed Leather?
Waxed leather — sometimes called pull-up leather or oiled leather — is full-grain leather that has been treated with waxes and oils during the tanning process. The wax penetrates the fibres of the hide, creating a leather that behaves differently from conventional smooth leather.
The defining characteristics of waxed leather are:
- Textured, matte surface: The wax finish gives the leather a slightly rougher, more tactile surface with a natural, understated appearance
- Pull-up effect: When the leather is flexed or scratched, the wax migrates and creates lighter marks — a characteristic known as "pull-up" that many owners consider part of the leather's charm
- Faster, more dramatic ageing: Waxed leather develops a patina more quickly and more visibly than Italian leather, with each chair becoming uniquely marked by its use
- Higher water resistance: The wax treatment provides natural water resistance, making waxed leather more forgiving of minor spills
How They Age Differently
This is where the two leathers diverge most significantly — and where your personal preference matters most.
Italian leather ages like a fine wine: gradually, gracefully, and with increasing depth. After several years of use, the cushions will have a warm, burnished quality that looks intentional and refined. The ageing is subtle enough that the chair continues to look "new" for longer, which suits those who prefer a consistently polished aesthetic.
Waxed leather ages like a well-worn leather jacket: quickly, visibly, and with a character that's entirely its own. Within months of regular use, the cushions will show the marks of use — lighter patches where you sit, darker areas at the edges, a general softening of the surface. For many owners, this is precisely the appeal. The chair becomes a record of time spent in it.
Which Finish Suits Your Interior?
Use this as a guide:
Choose Italian leather if:
- Your interior is contemporary, minimalist, or Scandinavian-influenced
- You prefer a consistently refined, polished look
- The chair will be in a formal living room or reception space
- You want the leather to complement rather than dominate the room
Choose waxed leather if:
- Your interior is warmer, more eclectic, or has industrial or rustic elements
- You appreciate the idea of furniture that tells a story through use
- The chair will be in a study, library, or more informal living space
- You want the leather to be a tactile, characterful focal point
Care and Maintenance
Both leathers are full-grain and will last decades with basic care. The key differences in maintenance are:
Italian leather: Wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth for everyday cleaning. Condition with a quality leather conditioner every 6–12 months to maintain suppleness. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade the colour over time.
Waxed leather: Wipe with a dry cloth. Minor scratches and marks can be buffed out with your fingertip — the warmth of your hand redistributes the wax. Re-wax annually with a specialist wax conditioner to maintain the finish and water resistance.
The Verdict
There's no objectively better choice — only the right choice for your space and your relationship with your furniture. If you want a chair that looks impeccable from day one and maintains that quality over time, Italian leather is the answer. If you want a chair that becomes more interesting the longer you own it, waxed leather will reward you.
Both finishes are available across our full Eames Lounge Chair collection. If you're unsure which is right for you, we're happy to send leather swatches — contact us before ordering.
