As trends come and go with seasons, a quiet revolution is making waves—a shift towards sustainability and ethical practices. The sustainable movement is not just limited to clothing but extends to fashion accessories. Here are 10-handbag brands which are setting new beachmarks for luxury by showing that high-end fashion can also be kind to the planet.
ALEXANDRA K
Alexandra K, a Polish handbag brand founded by designer Aleksandra Kościkiewicz, is known for its timeless designs and commitment to offering unique and sustainable options for fashion-conscious consumers. The bags are crafted from eco-friendly and innovative materials like apple, pineapple, corn and grape leather. Each handbag makes a bold statement against the traditional leather norms, blending the best leather craftsmanship with an aim for a greener planet.
CUYANA
Cuyana's philosophy of "fewer, better things" emphasizes quality over quantity, encouraging consumers to purchase thoughtfully. Cuyana offers timeless essentials for the contemporary wardrobe, with a range of accessories, including bags, small leather goods, and jewellery, crafted with a focus on material sustainability, timeless design, and artisanal craftsmanship. Cuyana also promotes a circular economy through its Lean Closet program, furthering its commitment to sustainability.
JW PEI
JW Pei has quickly become a favourite among fashion enthusiasts looking for sustainable and affordable luxury. Inspired by the belief that fashion should be effortless, inclusive, and empowering, their handbags are made from vegan leather and recycled plastic bottles, showcasing an innovative approach to eco-friendly fashion. With a wide range of colours and styles, JW Pei proves that you don't have to sacrifice style for sustainability.
KAYU
Kayu celebrates the beauty of natural materials and traditional craftsmanship. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted using indigenous techniques and sustainable, natural materials like straw, jute, wood and naturally tanned vegan leather. Kayu is committed to preserving the cultural heritage and empowering communities all around the world by supporting local artisans and nurturing sustainable practises. Check out their lovely collection of summer totes and clutches.
MASHU
Mashu is a London-based brand that specializes in handcrafted handbags made from sustainable and vegan materials. Known for their art deco-inspired designs, Mashu utilizes fabrics like recycled polyester and water-based PU to create their eco-friendly yet luxurious bags.
MELIE BIANCO
Melie Bianco's mission is to offer luxury handbag designs at an accessible price point, all while upholding ethical manufacturing practices. The brand uses vegan leather and operates under a fair trade model, ensuring that its artisans are paid fair wages and work in safe conditions. Melie Bianco's stylish and affordable bags demonstrate that ethical fashion can be accessible to all.
O MY BAG
O My Bag, founded by Paulien Wesselink, is a sustainable handbag brand from Amsterdam. By using eco-friendly materials like naturally tanned leather, O My Bag produces timeless pieces designed to last. The brand's ethical ethos aims to make a difference by connecting the artisans in small communities to the global market and creating fair job opportunities. Their commitment to ethical labour practices in India ensures that every bag purchased supports a chain of positive change, providing fair wages and safe working conditions.
SANS BEAST
Sans Beast is dedicated to creating luxurious, cruelty-free handbags. Their collection, made from eco polyurethane and other sustainable materials, showcases an unwavering commitment to ethics, animal welfare, and style. With eye-catching designs and functional elegance, Sans Beast proves that luxury doesn't have to come at the expense of the environment.
SVALA
Svala brings the minimalist elegance of Scandinavian design to the ethical handbag market. Their bags are crafted from premium vegan materials, including Piñatex and recycled polyester. Svala's commitment to sustainability is matched by their dedication to animal welfare and reducing environmental impact, making their handbags a choice you can feel good about.
STELLA MCCARTNEY
A pioneer in sustainable luxury fashion, Stella McCartney continues to lead the way in eco-friendly design. Her handbags are made from vegan material, with a strong commitment to cruelty-free fashion. McCartney consistently proves that high-end accessories can be both luxurious and ethical.