HomeBlogBlogShiny Fake Leather: Patent PU vs Metallic Faux Leather

Shiny Fake Leather: Patent PU vs Metallic Faux Leather

What is the shiny fake leather called?

Shiny fake leather is most commonly called patent leather when it has a high-gloss, mirror-like finish. When the material is synthetic (not animal leather), it’s often described as patent PU, patent vegan leather, or patent faux leather. You may also see product listings use the term synthetic patent to highlight both the glossy finish and the man-made base.

In many accessories—especially evening bags, shoes, and belts—the “shiny” look comes from a coated surface layer. That coating creates the slick shine and makes the material easier to wipe clean than many matte faux leathers. If you’re shopping online, look for words like “patent,” “high-shine,” “glossy,” or “lacquered” in the description to confirm you’re getting that reflective finish.

Other names you might see for shiny faux leather

Depending on the brand and the exact finish, shiny fake leather can be labeled in several ways:

PU leather (glossy): Polyurethane-based faux leather with a shiny top coat.
Vegan leather (high-shine): A broad retail term; the shine usually comes from a polyurethane coating.
Lacquered faux leather: Suggests a more “wet look” gloss, similar to patent styling.
Metallic faux leather: Shiny because it includes metallic pigment or a foil-like layer (common in silver and gold).

Metallic finishes can look extra reflective compared to standard black patent, since the color layer itself is designed to bounce light.

How to tell if it’s patent-style or metallic

If the surface looks like a smooth, glassy sheen in a solid color, it’s typically patent-style. If it has a reflective sparkle, chrome-like effect, or looks “foiled,” it’s often metallic faux leather. For a closer look at a high-impact metallic option—especially in silver—see this guide: shiny silver vegan leather chain strap evening bag.

FAQ

Does patent vegan leather crack or peel over time?

It can if it’s repeatedly creased, exposed to heat, or stored pressed against itself for long periods. Keeping it clean, avoiding sharp folds, and storing it in a dust bag helps preserve the glossy coating.