But whatever a brand's volume, buying exotic skins doesn't come with guarantees, and such is the reason for their appeal: the idea that the bags are natural and one-of-a-kind.

"People are looking for something unique, that's real luxury," Gonzalez said. "The same clutch in the same color is not the same bag. Each product has its own personality. That's why people are attracted to skins."

Despite the increasingly crowded market, handbag designers are having a stellar year with exotic skins, proving that, for the moment, there is room for everyone, and that, as more designers jump on board, more buzz surrounds the category.

Designer Lelya Awati, whose Bali-based exotic handbag firm has been in the game for five years, reports her business has been doubling every year.

"It's a reflection of the demand that's out there and the comfort of the American market with the return of skins," she said.

Falchi's exotic business also has doubled in the last two years, and LAI's sales have tripled in the last three to five years, mostly in exotics.

"Our products are very much in demand and our customer base has grown enormously," Distenfeld said.

Lambertson Truex and Nancy Gonzalez have reported an increase in fall wholesale orders. Scott also stated that her alligator and expensive exotics are selling ahead of plan.

As for whether or not the exotic skin market will continue to flourish for everyone, designers remain optimistic.

"There are enough skins for everybody," Gonzalez said. "It's a scarce commodity, but for a scarce clientele. There are enough skins for the people buying these products."