Ted Baker Leather Case

Want to make a statement with your iPhone accessories? Then this Ted Baker case is for you.  The red and black colour combination certainly makes the case stand out and should suit those who enjoy seeing heads’ turn.

Being leather the case is bulkier than its prophylactic-like competitors.  However, there is something attractive about the look and feel of leather that goes some way to making up for the bulk.

Whilst the detailing around the camera and earphones holes show attention to detail, the most intriguing part of the case is its lid.  If you are anything like me and rarely carry cash and rely on about two cards (Driver's Licence and ATM card) then the two card slots on the lid provides the opportunity to use the case as both a stylish protector for your iPhone and a wallet.  In the spirit of practising what one preaches I decided to remove retire my wallet in favour of the case.  As yet I haven’t brought the wallet (which only held six cards anyway) out of retirement.

As to be expected with fashion accessories there are some design flaws.  Ironically this case's most obvious downfall is its lid. When opened it lazily falls over the camera lens obstructing the view and requires two hands to take a picture one to hold the lid away from the lens and the other to hit the camera button.  Also, given the fact that the case is leather the edges around the screen sit high which makes navigation difficult. I found that it was easier to take the phone out of the case when writing long emails or txt messages.  Given that I am not in the habit of composing essays on my phone the high edges, for the most part, was a minor annoyance.

The biggest potential Achilles heel is the two loops at the bottom of the case that hold the phone in.  I say potential as at this point the loops are still in-tact. However, in the last week I noticed two disturbing cuts, one of which is perilously close to a stitch.  If these loops were to give way then the detailing, stylish looks and Ted Baker name will count for little when the phone falls right through the case. In all fairness to the manufacturer and designer, the loops are unobtrusive and allow the charger to easily slip into where it should. They also don't obstruct the speakers, which is a relief. It may well be that these very small tears are just wear and tear and won't come to anything.

Setting aside these relatively minor issues I think this case is a breath of fresh air in an accessory market that seems to be obsessed with bland, rubber sheaths.  Overall, the Ted Baker case is a stylish, functional iPhone fashion accessory.