it seems to be pressed leather rather than dyed leather, so there is a strong smell coming from it. i'm ok with it, i feel confident that it will air out and lose the smell. it definitely feels like real leather. the bag is very sturdy and well-made. i love the design and it's much better quality than the same bag i purchased elsewhere in the states that was made with cheap fake leather. i'm extremely happy w the product, extremely worth it. seller shipped super fast!!!