As the vegan diet is becoming more and more mainstream worldwide, so are vegan
accessories. Several brands have made headlines over the past few years saying no to fur and
even leather. Did you know the global vegan fashion market is at $451.7 billion as of 2023?
Moreover, it is expected to reach $835.7 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 7.1%.
Cruelty-free handbags also hold a share among them. The world observes a paradigm shift
towards a more conscious fashion. This requires taking a deepuer look into the industry. Experts
predict that the vegan leather market will grow by 49% within 2025. However, while the world
gets ready for the transformation, one major question has often popped up on major social
media platforms, are vegan leather handbags cruelty-free? Why are these handbags a
must-have in your wardrobe?
Before discussing everything in detail, let’s understand what is the concept behind vegan
leather.
What is Vegan Leather?
Now the question is, what is vegan leather, and why is it called vegan leather? Well, it is exactly
what it claims to be. Leather made from products other than animals. Vegan leather handbags
are available in various forms both synthetic and natural. On the other hand, leather
manufacturers have been recognized as one of the most polluting industries in the world, by the
Environmental Protection Agency. The tanning process shapes the raw animal skin ready to
make products that use multiple toxic chemicals. The waste of the tanning process goes directly
into the water bodies creating water pollution. Moreover, with the chemicals in the leather, it
becomes non-biodegradable. Thereafter, the after-use of these products also creates pollution.
Are Vegan Leather Handbags Considered Cruelty-Free
Handbags?
Before delving into why you must have a cruelty-free handbag in your wardrobe, let’s spill some
beans over vegan leather handbags.
Any bag using materials or processes that don’t involve any use of animals or don’t cause harm
to animals is a cruelty-free handbag. Vegan leather is the next-gen fashion and is already
reigning in the market. While cruelty-free handbags label themselves as manufactured without
harming or killing animals, the question is are they cruelty-free?
We understand that cruelty-free and vegan are not synonymous. Therefore, a vegan leather
handbag is a product that doesn’t use any animal products. Then, why is vegan leather not
considered eco-friendly?
Are Vegan Leather Bags Eco-Friendly?
The majority of the products used to manufacture vegan leather handbags are either natural or
synthetic. Synthetic leather also known as faux leather is made up of Polyurethane or Polyvinyl
Chloride. Both of these materials are made up of plastics and are also known as plastic or
synthetic leather. However, a few leather handbags are made up of natural materials such as
PU leather or cork.
While these bags are cruelty-free, plastics are not known as eco-friendly. Let’s take a look at the
manufacturing procedure of premium vegan leather handbags. PU and PVC are both
byproducts of petroleum. Thereafter, automatically a cheaper alternative to animal hides. While
PVC is very toxic, the majority of fashion brands use PU leather and make an eco-conscious
choice.
Yet, the problem with these leather products is that even synthetic vegan leather doesn’t die.
While vegan leather handbags are a cruelty-free choice, it’s not eco-friendly. Now, the question
is, are cruelty-free handbags a better choice than traditional vegan leather handbags? Yes,
absolutely. Not only are these bags cruelty-free, but also cause less pollution to the
environment. Especially when in comparison with the traditional leather industry.
Why is a Premium Vegan Leather Handbag a Must-Have
Accessory?
Vegan fashion has taken the fashion industry by storm. With several celebrities taking the
pledge to use and promote cruelty-free handbags, big brands are not behind. 2018 has been a
remarkable year in the fashion space. With big brands such as Ralph Lauren. Burberry,
Versace, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, and more, saying no to fur.
The Power of Celebrity Endorsements
With popular brands supporting and switching to cruelty-free handbags, several social media
influencers, and celebrities are endorsing vegan accessories. One of the long-time vegan
fashion supporters Miley Cyrus regularly raises concerns about harming animals for fashion.
She has also started her vegan shoes.
Another well-known celebrity is Kate Mara. She uses her social media profiles to promote
cruelty-free fashion. With the world becoming more and more digitized, social media has a huge
impact on viewers.
These Handbags Are Within Your Budget
While a premium leather handbag is trendy, these bags are not at all expensive. Moreover,
these bags are less expensive than the bags that use animal skin to prepare leather. If you get
the right vegan leather handbag, from the right brand, these bags surprisingly last longer.
In today’s uncertain world, it’s important to be mindful of your spending while also being aware
of the impact you’re having on the environment. That’s why choosing vegan bags instead of
traditional leather ones is a smart choice. Vegan bags are eco-friendly, cruelty-free, and
sustainable. Plus, it feels good to know you’re making a positive impact on the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are vegan leather handbags durable?
If you select your cruelty-free handbag from the right brand, it will last long. Did you know that a well-crafted leather bag can last longer than a traditional leather bag if maintained properly? Unlike conventional leather bags, these vegan leather handbags do not crack. - Are cruelty-free handbags water-proof?
A premium vegan leather handbag is waterproof. However, this depends on the brands. Some brands offer bags that are susceptible to water, while some are designed with an added layer of protection. Therefore, if you are using a vegan handbag, rinse the bag gently with wet tissue and clean it again with a dry cloth. - How to clean a premium vegan leather handbag?
When using vegan leather handbags, use a synthetic cleaning cloth to wipe off the bag. You can also use a mild detergent. In case you are planning to remove a stain, the best way to clean is to use lukewarm water and a gentle detergent. In case your bag is wet, let it dry by itself, and do not use a blow dryer. - Which is better? Vegan leather handbags, or traditional leather bags?
High-quality vegan leather handbags offer similar quality as traditional leather bags. Many
people cannot differentiate between the two. Since vegan bags are cruelty-free, and do less
harm to the environment in comparison to conventional leather bags, it’s the best choice. - Are vegan leather handbags eco-friendly?
No, cruelty-free handbags are not eco-friendly. However, in comparison to leather handbags, these create less waste.
