:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/vegan-leather-GettyImages-1433367396-d9e2c128c58e47fb82440b0244c1664c.jpg?w=1024&resize=1024,1024&ssl=1 "5 Best Vegan Leathers That Are More Sustainable and Ethical")
There’s no denying that leather reads as a luxury textile and that it lasts for ages, but it’s not exactly the most ethical or environmentally-friendly option out there.
“People often choose alternatives to leather for various reasons,” notes Melissa Song, founder and designer at Melie Bianco. “These include ethical concerns about animal cruelty, environmental impact concerns related to the leather industry—such as deforestation and water usage—or personal preferences for more sustainable materials.”
Fortunately, with textile innovations happening all the time, high-quality vegan leathers are becoming increasingly accessible, notes James Firestein, founder and CEO at OpenLuxury. Here are some of the best leather substitutes to consider whether you’re shopping for shoes, handbags, or clothing.
Cork
Cork is a lightweight, renewable material that comes from the cork oak tree. Like leather, “it’s durable, water-resistant, and breathable,” Firestein says. He adds that several brands use it to make products you’d traditionally see made from leather, including wallets, handbags, and other accessories.
- Corkor Women’s Cork Belt ($49.60, Corkor)
- Paula Parisotto GiGi Versatile Cork Clutch ($195, Paula Parisotto)
Pineapple (Piñatex)
The term “vegan leather” can be a bit misleading, particularly for those seeking environmentally friendly alternatives to genuine leather, says designer and fashion expert Mariana Leung. Many end up veering toward cheap, plastic-based simulated leathers when what they should be looking for is plant-based textiles. A great one, notes Leung, is pineapple leather (piñatex), which is constructed from pineapple fibers.
- Immaculate Vegan Chicago Piñatex Vegan Leather Ankle Strap Heels ($65, Immaculate Vegan)
- Tashi Bag – Metallic Black Piñatex ($298, Svala)
Mushroom Leather
“Mushroom leather is an innovative new material made from compressed mushroom fibers that resembles leather,” says Firestein. “It’s sustainable, vegan, and durable.” He adds that a handful of brands, like MycoWorks, are pioneering mushroom leather products and that the category is catching on among consumers.
- Kengos Womens Torrey Lace Up – Mushroom Leather ($135, Kengos)
- Stella McCartney Frayme Mylo Shoulder Bag ($2,650, Stella McCartney)
Waxed Canvas/Cotton
Waxed cotton or waxed canvas are also durable, high-quality options when shopping for leather alternatives. “The wax is placed around the cotton to give it a shiny leather appearance,” explains Catherine Bibeau, stylist and fashion veteran. “This treatment provides a lasting leather look and ensures durability throughout your wardrobe. Along with this, waxed cotton garments develop a vintage aesthetic over time and are easy to maintain for years to come.”
Cactus Leather
Similar to pineapple and mushroom leather, cactus leather is a vegan alternative that utilizes the plant fibers of the nopal cactus (prickly pear). The mature paddles are harvested and cleaned, mashed, and then processed to replicate the real deal. It’s surprisingly similar to the look and feel of genuine leather, but is considered a more sustainable and ethical choice.
- Kengos Men’s Sur Chukka – Cactus Leather ($155, Kengos)
- Made Trade Cactus Leather Crossbody Camera Bag ($285, Made Trade)