Fashion

Carry Sustainability in Style: The Future of Handbags

Carry Sustainability in Style: The Future of Handbags

Your handbag is more than just a carrier of everyday essentials; it’s a statement of your values and a step towards a sustainable future. Let’s dive into the best practices and innovations in the world of sustainable handbags.

The Transparency Trend

In the realm of conscious consumerism, transparency is key. Brands like Deadly Ponies are leading the charge, with co-founder Liam Bowden stating, “For us, transparency is the foundation… helping to change the fashion industry and increase awareness so that customers can make informed and considered purchases.”

Sustainability at the Core

For brands like Yu Mei, sustainability isn’t an afterthought; it’s a core value. Founder and director Jessie Wong explains, “We approach it holistically as something that is built into our systems and supply chain.”

Material Matters

When it comes to materials, innovative brands are turning to sustainable sources. Deadly Ponies and Yu Mei use New Zealand deer nappa farmed under the Five Freedoms standard, ensuring the deer are well cared for. Both brands are also exploring circularity programs, including repairs and recycled collections.

Kiwi Innovation

New Zealand brands are known for their innovation, often born out of necessity. Summer Gribble, founder of Kaiso, shares her experience: “I have found it difficult to source different components for my bags here, and have been forced to get creative and to think outside of the box for a solution.”

The Journey of Sustainability

Saben founder Roanne Jacobson started her business using excess car manufacturing materials. Now, she’s developing innovative recycled leather collections. “The industry is pushing for the powerful multinational brands to start choosing better, so that truly innovative sustainable manufacturers can scale and therefore make things attainable to everyone,” she says.

Vegan Alternatives

For those who prefer to avoid animal products, there are now viable vegan leather alternatives. Suzie Eggleton, owner of Velvet Heartbeat, highlights options like Piñatex (from pineapple leaves), apple leather (made using waste from juice production), and cactus leather.

Worker Welfare

Social responsibility extends to worker welfare. Local company Duffle & Co employs skilled craftsmen in a family-run workshop in Bali. CEO Danny Pritchard shares, “Our goal is to ensure each product purchased actually reverses environmental impacts… ensuring we bring a positive overall benefit to our planet.”