Ethical and Sustainable Leather Goods
Leather goods are a tried-and-true staple that everyone on your gift list will appreciate—including mom, dad, siblings, significant other, and coworkers. From handbags and wallets to briefcases and travel kits, there’s a leather accessory for every person on your list. Plus, unlike more disposable materials like cotton, real leather ages gracefully and lasts longer. It’s also durable and repairable—a great financial (and environmental) choice when compared to buying new accessories all the time. Not to mention, it looks and smells good.
Leather can be tanned to create many different products, from shoes and bags to furniture and car interiors. This versatile material is a durable, sturdy option that is also comfortable to wear and touch. However, not all leather is created equal. It’s important to choose a high-quality leather from reputable tanneries, which ensure that the product will last and stand the test of time.
Whether you’re looking for an accessory to elevate your outfit or a piece of furniture to complete your home, the right leather piece can add timeless style and function to any space. To help you find the best leather products for your needs, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite ethical and sustainable options from brands we love.
Portland leather goods company Moop makes everything from bags to leather goods to go inside them—plus, some things that don’t go in them at all. Its collection includes a wide range of colors from traditional browns to eye-catching hues, plus vegan alternatives like cork and canvas. And the brand is committed to responsible business practices, sourcing its leather from ethical suppliers around the world.
The label’s sleek leather backpack is the perfect size to carry all your essentials, including a laptop and daily necessities. It’s available in several colorways, and its padded straps are designed to support your back.
Another brand that prioritizes sustainability is Chicago-based Ashland Leather, which was started by two tannery workers with more than 20 years of combined experience. The label’s minimalist designs are crafted in Horween leather, which is sourced from an American-owned company. Its Shell Cordovan bifold, for example, starts at $200 and can be customized with embossed initials.
Leather is a natural product, which means that it does not need to be treated with harsh chemicals or injected with pollutants during the production process. This helps to reduce the amount of waste that is produced and protects the environment. It is also a hygienic product, as it can be easily cleaned and disinfected.
While some synthetic leathers are growing in popularity, the majority of the global leather market is made up of genuine, organic products. This is especially true for luxury and fashion brands, where consumers demand higher quality and sustainability. The rise of synthetic leathers has been driven by consumer demand for environmentally friendly, lightweight and functional products.
Although a leather bag may come with a heftier price tag than, say, a polyester version, it’s a smart investment that will last a long time—and look much better over the course of a lifetime. Leather goods