A practical guide to vegan handbags

Introduction: What is Vegan Fashion?

Simply put, vegan fashion generally follows the trends of its time but without using leather, silk, wool, feathers, or fur, while utilizing innovative and animal-friendly materials like apple leather.

If you want to be sure you’re purchasing an item that is animal and eco-friendly, make sure the brand’s website displays the "PETA-approved" logo. This guarantees that you’re buying a product that officially respects animal life. The motto of the animal rights organization PETA is: "Animals are not ours to wear or exploit in any way."

However, it is important to note that not all animal-free fashion is necessarily sustainable. The vegan material must also come from transparent and ethical production.

Vegan Fashion – The Benefits of Buying a Vegan Handbag

There are many benefits to buying a vegan handbag, as it not only respects animal life but also supports animal welfare.

By opting for vegan fashion, especially ethical fashion that protects the planet and all living beings, we can positively influence the fashion industry and help move it away from harmful and abusive practices.

For customers of vegan brands who buy accessories such as crossbody bags or handbags that have direct contact with the skin, it is particularly appreciated to be able to wear products that have not been exposed to chemical agents. To ensure this, it’s essential to research the quality of the vegan leather used. For example, we know that apple leather is hypoallergenic.

Vegan accessories like handbags are much more environmentally friendly than traditional leather versions. For example, producing leather requires a lot of energy. For a medium-sized handbag at Rive Claire, we use about 5 apples, and compared to a leather bag, we use around 70% less water and 60% less CO2.

Vegan Materials for Handbag Making:

- Vegan Leather

Vegan leather, also known as "synthetic leather," is a very popular material for making vegan handbags. This material is made from polyurethane (PU) or PVC. The benefits of vegan leather are numerous, including its durability, lightness, and water resistance. Additionally, it’s easy to clean and requires no special maintenance. Vegan leather is also available in a wide variety of colors and textures, offering an almost infinite choice of handbag styles.

- Apple Leather

Apple leather is an innovative and eco-friendly material that is increasingly being used in the production of vegan handbags. This material is made from dried and crushed apple waste, then mixed with PU or natural latex. Apple leather is water-resistant and durable, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional leather. Moreover, it comes in a variety of colors and textures, offering a wide range of handbag styles.

- Cork

Cork is a natural and renewable material that is increasingly used in the production of vegan handbags. It is made from the bark of cork oak trees, which regrows after harvesting. Cork is very lightweight, water-resistant, and durable, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional leather. It is also available in a variety of colors and textures, allowing for a wide range of handbag styles.

- Raffia

Raffia is a natural fiber extracted from the leaves of raffia palms. This material is very durable and lightweight, making it an ideal choice for vegan handbags. Additionally, raffia is an eco-friendly option because it is biodegradable and renewable. The production process of raffia is energy-efficient and does not involve the use of harmful chemicals. Raffia handbags are available in a wide range of colors and designs, offering a unique and natural style. If you're looking for a vegan handbag that combines style, durability, and sustainability, raffia is a great option to consider.               

                                     

How to Choose the Best Vegan Handbag for You

Choosing a vegan handbag involves two distinct aspects. In addition to the shape, size, color, and style, the material or vegan leather you want to focus on based on its specificities is also important.

For example, our brand offers a range of handbags made from apple leather or Appleskin, which replicates with great precision the visual and tactile aspects of an animal leather bag.

Additionally, buying a vegan handbag made in Italy, like Rive Claire handbags, allows you to support artisans with unique expertise who produce items ethically. While ethics and veganism have different causes, they are closely linked in the interests and causes championed by individuals with convictions in both areas.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Buying a piece of vegan fashion, whether you are used to it or not, is a unique shopping and wearing experience. The story behind each piece, both in its convictions and in the technique used to work with the alternative materials that make up the item, creates a complex and fascinating story. So, are you looking for a vegan handbag or another vegan fashion piece? Why not choose according to your convictions and in a sustainable and ethical way?

At Rive Claire, you can find your vision of fashion with our selection of plant-based leathers, fabrics, and other alternative materials, without sacrificing style. Come discover our different collections of vegan accessories and handbags by clicking here. And if you have any questions, feel free to contact us using our form, available here. We will be happy to respond to you as quickly as possible.