Over the years, leather bags have become somewhat of a wardrobe staple. Thanks to modern tech, however, vegan leather is in (and totally affordable). While “real” leather is made from the skin of animals, faux and vegan leather offer an ethical alternative that not only looks good but feels good to carry.
But, there’s a slight catch. (Isn’t there always?) Not all vegan leather is created equally. While shopping for a cruelty-free bag, you should avoid anything that’s made from polyvinyl chloride or PVC (that’s the shorthand for it). PVC, while not made from animals, is harmful to the environment.
Even so, it’s not impossible to find a vegan leather handbag that’s both cruelty-free and stylish, you’ve just got to know where to look (and what to look for!). Here are eight brands to jumpstart your search for the perfect vegan leather bag.
Fenella Smith London
Elisabetta Franchi Celyn B.
Telfar
Studio Amelia
Stella McCartney
Katie Loxton
Mali + Lili