The Atelier LaDurance Saddle Belt you see above is from my personal closet. It was gifted to me this past January and I have faithfully worn it day in and day out. I consider Atelier LaDurance belts to be some of the finest in the world – triple thick and handmade from an almost indestructible cowhide. I highly recommend them especially if you like the keyring attachment.

But the finish you see above is not what my belt looked like when it arrived in my hands. It was originally closer to a beige/plain white finish (which you can still find) which did not bother me until the belt began to wear in. After a few months of use, the belt naturally started to form into it’s own and the white finish began to wear off which allowed me to see the natural tan finish being covered underneath. It was like pulling up tile and uncovering a hardwood floor.

Ask Nick how long it took me to remove all the white finish and bring it back to it’s original beauty (hours). The keyring came off much easier. The belt may not be what it once was, but at least it is rugged enough to take my changes and remain the most durable belt I have used in ages.

More views of my re-worked Atelier LaDurance Saddle Belt with images of the original finish after the jump.

The killer woven belts from Atelier LaDurance are now available in new colorways for Spring 2009. Last season’s tanned brown is now replaced with black and and an untreated vegetarian colored leather. The metal 2 prong closure remains on the classic. Only the 15oz. Corter is as appealing right now.

Get the Atelier LaDurance Woven Belts from Oi Polloi in Manchester, England, where a Portuguese guy can crash his Ferrari and become “Footballer of the Year” all in the same week.

More views of the Atelier LaDurance Woven Belts for Spring 2009 after the jump.

We’re told these will not be easy finds. You have been forewarned. Atelier LaDurance, once again, blends their premium selvedge denim against the luggage form. Two standouts come via the Suit Carrier and Weekender Bags. Details are the prize in both of these pieces of luggage. Avoiding the technical, these bags are made from 11oz denim and saddle leather which is produced in the same factories as the famous Goyard luggage. Both the Suit Carrier and the Weekender feature zip top closures, saddle leather handles, brass studded bases, and Vichy check linings. They simply look great.

More detailed views of the Atelier LaDurance Bags for Spring/Summer 2009 after the jump.

Small French denim label, Atelier LaDurance drives itself on ensuring top quality durable goods. Their textile of choice is denim which is handcrafted with "emotion and magic." Take this 100oz Japanese selvedge denim jacket- the Novelty. With orange and yellow stitching, two large outside crosspatch pockets and Vichy shoulder lining, this denim jacket will appeal to workwear fans. A very nice take on the classic denim jacket.

More views of Atelier LaDurance’s Novelty Denim Jacket after the jump.