10 Tips to Choose the Right Leather Work Apron
Often when you think about leather aprons, you envision someone who is baking or cooking in the kitchen. But aprons are used in so many industries, not just the food, drink & hospitality industries. Aprons are popular in a wide range of other professions - such as floristry, health, beauty and aged care, barbers and hairdressers, artists, special events and tradeshows, green grocers and butchers and for schools and childcares.
Before purchasing one for your work think about your environment, about how it will be used - is it just to protect your clothing or to add a layer of protection? Is it important for the apron to complement your workplace or the role you play in it?
Tips for Choosing Leather Apron
LAPRON has put together 10 Tips to help you choose the right apron for your work - so your first choice is the right choice.
1. What Are Your Requirements for an Apron?
A uniform is mandatory for most jobs and often an apron is an integral part of that. In addition to it fitting well and looking smart, an leather work apron must be functional. Given the nature of your work, some leather work apron may be more suitable than others. Do you want the full coverage that a bib provides, or just a waist apron with pockets for essentials? Is it just to protect your clothes from water and dirt like a florist or do you require the added layer of protection that chefs require from the heat and sharp utensils or does it need to be waterproof for really wet areas?
Understanding the functionality you require from an leather work apron will help you make sure you get exactly what you need.
2. Will the leather work Apron Need to Complement Your Uniform
Many times Leather work apron is chosen to match the colors of the workplace or to showcase your branding. A cafe owner may want the aprons to be personalised and will choose an apron style and colour that will lend itself to their branding, whereas a school may want to have the aprons match their school colours - with or without the school’s logo featuring prominently. A chef might choose a traditional striped apron for himself or want the whole crew to have a cohesive look with the same colour and style of apron and chef wear.
3. What Fabrics/Materials Do you Prefer?
IWhen it comes to crafting a durable and reliable leather work apron, the choice of leather is paramount in ensuring both functionality and longevity. Among the various types of leather available, my preference leans towards full-grain leather for crafting the ideal leather work apron. Full-grain leather, derived from the top layer of the hide, retains the natural grain and character of the animal's skin, making each apron unique in its texture and appearance. This type of leather is known for its exceptional strength and resistance to wear, providing a robust shield against the demands of a rugged workshop environment. A leather work apron crafted from full-grain leather not only offers superior durability but also develops a rich patina over time, reflecting the experiences and hard work of its wearer. The inherent qualities of full-grain leather make it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and stylish companion in their craft, ensuring that a well-crafted leather work apron becomes a cherished tool for years to come
4. Which Apron Style?
LAPRON has a great selection of both bib and waist aprons. As gender roles have blended, aprons these days are more or less unisex, meaning aprons for men and aprons for women are often the same with maybe the pinafore as an exception.
Bib Aprons
Bib aprons are the most traditional and popular style of apron with an adjustable neck loop and waist ties. This apron has evolved from the basic black and white to include various styles, colours and fabrics. These aprons cover your torso to the knee and usually have multiple pockets, making them very versatile. They are ideal for branding with logos and names.
Cross Back Aprons
Cross Back Aprons are similar to the bib apron, except that the apron straps sit on your shoulders and cross over your back, taking the strain away from your neck. Cross back straps come in either cloth or leather look strap apron choices and in some styles the apron straps are removable so you can change colours and looks easily.
Waist Aprons / Utility Pouch
Waist Aprons and Utility Pouches do not provide upper body coverage. Shorter in length, usually well above the knee, they are super comfortable and provide ease of movement. Most styles come with pockets to store pens, tablets, order pads and other tools of the trade.
Pinafore / Smock Aprons
Pinafore aprons sometimes called a smock or Japanese-style aprons, are one size, and easily slip over your head providing full body coverage.
5. What about Colour and design?
Design and colour choices are often a factor in most of the clothing we choose and this can also influence which apron is best for you. We understand that a leather apron is first and foremost purchased for the protection of your clothing underneath, but how it looks is also important to you. That is why Aussie Chef provides such a large assortment of aprons for you to choose from. Varying in of course the styles listed above, but also in colours, fabrics and textures, pocket configurations and finishing touches like eyelets, buckles, press studs and metal rivets.
From simple utilitarian to very detailed, unique designs to cater for different customers requirements. Apron colours range from simple black & white, to deep jewel tones and modern neutrals, to colourful ice cream inspired colours. BELLA & ARCHIE aprons even have Mix & Match straps to add an splash of colour.
6. What Will Your Work Environment Be Like?
Are you a chef or line cook working in the heat of the kitchen? Look for durable, lightweight fabrics that give you the protection you need but not a lot of bulk. Will you be moving around a lot? If so, a shorter bib or waist apron might be ideal. Perhaps you need some of your tools and accessories close at hand - then generous pockets are indeed a feature you require. Will you be interacting with customers or behind the scenes? This could play an important part of your decision making - especially if wanting to make an impression.
7. When Will You Use Your leather Aprons?
Will your aprons be worn every day, all day? YES? Then you will want to look for durable, long-lasting aprons that are made to last - to minimize having to replace them too often. If you are just going to use your aprons only occasionally, then this isn’t as important. But because Aussie Chef wants you to be happy with your choice, the same attention to detail goes into each and every one of our aprons - so that no matter which one you choose - you will be satisfied.
8. Is the Price of an Apron a Factor?
LAPRON recognize that price often plays a factor in your decision, so we have aprons available at all different price points.
In making your choice, determine the exact features and specifications you need, and then look through a selection of aprons that meet those needs. Find the one that provides the most value for your money.
No matter which apron you choose, the same quality and care is taken in constructing the aprons - from the simplest design to the most detailed - to be long lasting and worth your investment.
9. How Do You Care for leather Work Aprons?
All aprons designed by LAPRON come with Leather To ensure the longevity of your leather work apron, regular care is crucial. Wipe off dirt with a damp cloth, use mild soap for stains, and avoid harsh chemicals. Apply a leather conditioner periodically to maintain suppleness and prevent cracking. Never submerge in water and store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
10. Do You Want to Personalize Leather Apron?
If you want to add your branding or personalize your aprons with names, we’ve got you covered! LAPRON can arrange for beautiful embroidery or screen printing at great prices! In the design stage of our leather apron, LAPRON takes into consideration that some customers will want to add branding - so almost all of the aprons can be embroidered even if it is a bib or waist apron style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right leather apron involves considering factors like functionality, style, and material. Assess your work environment, select a suitable style (bib, cross back, waist, or pinafore), and choose a color that complements your workplace. Opt for durable full-grain leather, be mindful of your budget, and consider personalization options. LAPRON offers a diverse range of aprons to meet various needs, ensuring you find a reliable and stylish companion for your work.