Jess

I purchased a black, faux leather bag @ $40, quality akin to those huge-variety bag shops around places like Bugis Village. It was big and super roomy; I could keep a ton of stuff in it -- so much it exhausted me somedays.

I have used it for just over a year now, and it's really begun to tear/peel along the top and a bit at the pockets, revealing gray fabric beneath in huge blotchy patches.

Should I attempt restoration? Maybe remove the above layer/trim the tears along the stitches/something or other for a "new look"?

Or, if I get a new bag, preferably in real leather, what are the pros and cons (ie. weight, wear-ability, stains, etc.)?

Thank you. (And sorry if there're too many details.)