Although adopting a vegan lifestyle is good for the environment, the alternatives for leather goods may combat some of the positive effects. For example, polyvinyl chloride, more commonly known as PVC, is a material often used to simulate leather. However, it is hotly contested whether or not PVC is safe for the environment. This makes searching for vegan accessories something of a nightmare, especially when other ethical standards such as labor practices and the longevity of the styleare taken into account.
The best thing for the environment is ultimately shopping secondhand, but sometimes it is difficult to find a particular or specific style or perhaps you are shopping for a gift for someone else. Fortunately, there are several brands on the market that do more than just produce goods without animal products. Here are five vegan handbag and accessory brands that tick off several ethical checkpoints, from labor laws to recycled materials.
According to their website, “spuren” comes from the German word that means “leaving a track” because purchasing a Spuren bag leaves a “positive footprint” on the planet. Not only are all of Spuren’s products PETA-certified vegan, they also utilize textileshandmade by artisans as well as upcycled materialsto craft sturdy, long-lasting bags. They also have a no child labor policy and ask that all of their partners, suppliers and sub-contractors have the same. Their product line features goods for all genders and for all occasions. Prices range from 39 dollars for a small crossbody bag to 180 dollars for a large duffle bag.
The name of this company comes from two of their principles: materials and nature. This vegan accessory company also uses 100 percent recycled plastic to line their products. The company also vets each of their production facilities as well as making it an ongoing effort to source more sustainable materials as vegan leathers improve over time. The designs of the bags offer something for everyone, especially those looking for a professional looking tote or bag, while also being extraordinarily high quality. Although the designs tend to be a bit pricier, the increase is due to the undeniable quality of the materials and craftsmanship. Matt & Nat offers unisex styles.
Although this online retailer has several different certifications for what consists of an “ethical” purchase, they have a large range of vegan handbags for sale. This is a great resource for finding purses of different styles and price points. Each product from Fashion Conscious has its own “My Ethics” tab that tells the customer a bit more about why the product is an ethical find. They do have their own in house line, FC Vegan Bags, as well as sourcing products from other brands. Their overall mission is to “onlystock designs which have an ethical and eco dimensionbe it recycled, organic cotton, non-toxic, fair trade, sustainable, vegan, hand-made, UK-made or non-exploitative.”
Established in 2009, Gunas was the first American all vegan handbag brand, according to their website.These high fashion bags don’t use any animal products and also promise sweatshop free labor and recycled materials. Each bag boasts a very unique design, so these bags are perfect for those with a little bit of flair. One real standout is the Paris duffel, a vegan leather duffel bag that is as chic as it is functional.
This is another brand that will make even the most diehard fashionistas question using leather. Found in 2013, Freedom of Animals uses the highest quality vegan materials to create fashion forward and minimal bags. Their seasonal lines range in materials from canvas to eco-friendly faux leather options. They are also made in the United States and follow EPA guidelines for all facets of production. It’s clear to see that “affordable luxury” is a part of their mission given how beautiful their handbags are. They also have a partnership with the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Kenya and encourage customers to donate to the cause directly while also naming several of their bag styles after elephants at the trust.
Photo credit: Freedom of Animals
Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.
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