Fast fashion isn't everlasting. Fast fashion isn't built to last, as trends and micro-seasons drive it. These garments are known for coming apart after only a few washing. Furthermore, fast fashion is well-known for being harmful to the environment. Vegan attire that is also sustainable isn't always simple to come by.
Vegan leather not only makes you look nice, but it also makes you feel good because it is devoid of cruelty. Over a billion cows, pigs, goats, sheep, alligators, ostriches, kangaroos, and even dogs and cats are slain for their hides every year. Many of these animals had their tails and horns cut off without anesthetics, and some are even skinned and hacked apart while still conscious. Vegan leather, on the other hand, has a lethal aesthetic without the killing.
What exactly is vegan leather, though?
Polyurethane, a polymer that can be produced to order for any designer's whim, is commonly used to make vegan bags. It can also be manufactured from innovative and sustainable materials like Mulbtex, pineapple leaves, cork, apple peels, other fruit debris, and recycled plastic to create items that rival those made from animal skins.
As you may be aware, genuine leather is not inexpensive. And, because leather has a negative influence on the environment, it's important to know that alternatives are more readily available than before. According to PETA, the leather-making process is notorious for consuming a lot of energy, producing harmful chemicals, and contributing to climate change. Furthermore, it isn't exactly animal-friendly.
Polyurethane, a polymer that can be custom-tailored to your style, is commonly used to make sustainable leather bags. It can also be made from sustainable materials like apple peels, corks, pineapple leaves, and other fruit debris that would otherwise end up in the trash. The production team may also opt for cutting-edge processes to repurpose discarded plastic. The goal of using these potentially safe compounds is to end the never-ending practice of killing animals for their skin.
What makes Vegan leather so unique?
When you decide to live a compassionate vegan lifestyle, one of the first decisions you'll have to make is what to eat (and never to let into your fridge again). Changing your diet may appear to be a major step, but after you've done it, you'll be surprised at how simple it was. Then there's the question of how you're going to go about making your entire existence cruelty-free. And, because clothing is such an important aspect of our life, a vegan wardrobe is frequently the next step.
Creating a cruelty-free wardrobe doesn't have to include discarding every leather jacket and wool sweater you've ever owned; instead, it might entail progressively replacing your clothes as they wear out, keeping your cruelty-free mindset as near to your credit card as possible while shopping.
Vegan leather Can Be Used In What Situations?
Ethical leather is not only environmentally friendly, but it is also quite versatile. In reality, the number of designers like Sugandh G Agrawal using vegan leather in their collections of purses, boots, billfolds, shoes, and car seat coverings has risen dramatically. If you can't find a label that says "vegan," look for polyurethane, synthetic, or faux leather. Cruelty free leather is extremely adaptable. There's a vegan version of everything, from moto jackets in every cut and color to the perfect little black dress—and even personal goods that are guaranteed to tickle one's fancy.
As the fashion industry comes to terms with its obligations, it's time to look closer to home and make some small changes that will have a long-term impact. Here are some suggestions for making your wardrobe a model of sustainability.
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Do your homework.
Explore your favorite brands in further detail. Is it true that they are doing their part? Check out the sustainability area on many shops' websites, and be sure to shop for the most ethical and environmentally friendly options available. Look for companies that are open about their labor standards and pay their employees a living wage. Vegan brands, such as those featured by GUNAS, are usually ahead of the game on this front — they've done the legwork for you, so they're a safe bet.
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Choose your supplies wisely.
Fabric selection is an important aspect of the strategy. Suppose you're concerned about the consequences of fabric manufacturing on the environment (of course you are! ). In that case, you'll know that leather is a major offender, thanks to its linked methane emissions, inhumane treatment of livestock, and poisonous chemicals used in tanneries. But did you know that cotton is also considered a sin because of its high water consumption? (Keep an eye out for labels that say "sustainable cotton.") Polyester and nylon, which are made from plastic, are equally hazardous for the environment. So, what should we be looking for when we go shopping? Recycled materials are an excellent place to look for while purchasing vegan tote bags because they employ previously discarded materials to make new clothing.
New cellulose (plant-based) fibers to watch for include lyocell, which is as soft as cotton but derived from sustainably cultivated eucalypt trees, MulbTex is a new material made from the paper pulp of mulberry tree leaves and Pinatex, which is a pineapple industry by-product. Another fantastic option: plants with a woody core and fibrous bark, such as hemp, flax, nettle, jute, and rame, produce the greatest fibers. Because of their minimal water consumption and pest resistance, they have a modest environmental imprint compared to other natural fibers.
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Look for a seamstress.
Maybe you're a pro at using a sewing machine. Find someone who is if you aren't. If you have something you care about that needs to be fixed, transformed, or reused, you can get it repaired, altered, or repurposed to extend its life. Are your heels worn out? Is your bag's strap fraying? Get thee to a cobbler as soon as possible. You'll probably be supporting a tiny local business as well while buying vegan leather crossbody bags.
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Reuse and recycle
Whether you call it thrift or vintage, the reality remains that buying something used keeps it out of the landfill and saves you money. If rummaging through op shop racks isn't your thing, look for vintage fashion markets near you, or get together with a group of friends and pool your discards over a glass of wine.
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Reduce your purchases.
It's a basic guideline that's been around since the dawn of fashion: quality over quantity. Don't buy on the spur of the moment; instead, consider what will go with your new acquisition before making a purchase. Keep the 30-day rule in mind. If you don't think you'll wear it often, reconsider.
Every day, the most luxurious, sustainable, and innovative plant-based leather types are added, including those made from pineapple fibers (Pinatex), apple peels and mushrooms, cork, washable paper, recycled or natural rubber, paper pulp of mulberry tree leaves (Mulbtex)recycled polyester, and a variety of other materials that are still being developed and may hit the market tomorrow.
Not to mention, saying goodbye to quick fashion would free you a lot of mental space. You'll also avoid unwise buys and over consumption if you go the minimalist route and use this vegan wardrobe. Much more environmentally friendly!