Upholstering with designer fabrics - like Gucci, Fendi and Louis Vuitton

[TheHogRing]

There's a growing subculture among auto enthusiasts that could affect the types of materials auto trim shop carry. Folks, who have expensive taste, are incorporating high-end designer fabrics in the their vehicles' interiors. Inspired by the look and feel of designer-brand handbags, these people are asking auto trim shops to upholster their cars in Gucci, Fendi, Burberry and Louis Vuitton.

Out of curiosity, have any auto trimmers in this forum worked with designer fabrics in the past? And if so, what's your experience been like - especially considering these fabrics are made to line purses, not car seats?

For pictures and to read more about this trend, check out: http://tinyurl.com/3zta3jy

[JuneC]

Guess none of us are catering to this customer set just yet.  But, as a former owner of a Gucci purse (my former mother-in-law thought I should have one), I can tell you the printed Gucci vinyl is bullet-proof and outlasted the leather trim, with absolutely no signs of wear after probably 3 years of use.  The fabric lining was also in perfect condition.  I suspect that Louis Vuitton is equally as good or better as I see their luggage regularly on baggage carousels and I've never seen one in damaged condition. 

June

[TheHogRing]

Interesting points JuneC. I've never owned a Gucci purse myself (I'm a guy), but I could understand Gucci material being of the finest quality. After all, you get what you pay for.

Car fabrics, however, are also tested according to how well they withstand the elements - water, heat, etc. I wonder how well these designer fabrics perform in similar situations. Perhaps really well. They've haven't been used in cars long enough for any of us to know.

[scarab29]

Got a pic somewhere of a escalade with the gucci treatment. Full interior was done in Gucci material though I suspect it is counterfit. The paint also had the gucci logo ghost painted on the pearl white. Had the usual thug 24 in chrome shoes. Made ya look !!

[TheHogRing]

Got a pic somewhere of a escalade with the gucci treatment. Full interior was done in Gucci material though I suspect it is counterfit. The paint also had the gucci logo ghost painted on the pearl white. Had the usual thug 24 in chrome shoes. Made ya look !!

Haha... isn't that usually the case?

[mike802]

The Gucci fabric may have held up well inside a handbag, but how would it hold up to the ultra violet rays that cars are subjected to?  Like stated above, we really don't know, I would treat this as any COM at this point.