If you are concerned about animal welfare but still want to enjoy high-end fashion, don’t worry – there are plenty of designer handbags that are cruelty-free and vegan.
Below, we’ve put together a list of our favorite cruelty-free and vegan designer handbags/designers.
Stella McCartney
The first bag on our list is the Stella McCartney Falabella. This bag is made from recycled polyester and PVC, making it both environmentally friendly and vegan. The Falabella brand comes in a few different styles.
The bag also features a chain strap and is adorned with the signature Stella McCartney logo. Like her father Paul, Stella is an outspoken vegan and has been a vocal advocate for animal rights.
The Stella McCartney Falabella bag is available in several colors, including black, burgundy, and navy. Of course, all of her bags are cruelty-free and vegan.
Minkoff
The next bag on our list is the Minkoff Mini 5-Zip. This bag is made from 100% leather and features 5 zippered compartments, making it perfect for everyday use.
Rebecca Minkoff is a fashion designer who is passionate about animal rights. In fact, all of her products are cruelty-free and vegan.
The Minkoff Mini 5-Zip is available in black, blush, and brown.
Matt & Nat
This brand aunched in 1995 and focuses not only on being cruelty free but also eco-friendly. These sustainable bags are made from recycled material such as rubber, cardboard, cork, and nylons.
Rock these green styles as a tote, satchel, dwell, backpack, or belt bag.
One of our favorite bags from Matt & Nat is the DASH crossbody bag. This bag features a top zipper closure and an adjustable strap.
The DASH crossbody bag is available in black, grey, and camel. The REIKA Frame Crossbody Bag is another gem on the list. The bag features a snap-fasten design and a retro look.
GUNAS New York
One of our favorite vegan handbag brands is Gunas New York. These stylish bags are made from high-quality, sustainable materials such as PVC, microfiber, and cotton.
Plus, they are all PETA approved.
The GUNAS New York Mini Serena Crossbody bag is one of our favorites. This small bag is perfect for a night out or a day. GUNAS came on the fashion scene in 2009 and has been making a big splash ever since.
Their bags have been featured in magazines such as Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, and Vogue.
Urban Expressions
This brand offers fashionable and affordable handbags made from vegan leather. The bags are also free of any harmful chemicals or toxins.
The Urban Expressions started in 2005 and have gone on to become PETA and Vegan.org certified.
One of our favorite bags from Urban Expressions is the Tori Crossbody Clutch. This bag features a snap closure and an adjustable strap.
The KARMA handbag is another standout that looks like two bags in one. The outer layer is clear vinyl while the inner bag is vegan leather.
Korvara
Korvara does not have the extensive variety that some of the other brands on this list have, but what they lack in quantity they make up for in quality.
All of their bags use sustainable materials such as nylon, vegan Saffiano leather. Their signature aesthetic includes a stylish crosshatch pattern on all their bags.
The Korvara products are great for anyone who wants a subtle tote bag or wallet.Typical colors are brown, blue, and black.
Adelaide
Adelaide just came on the scene in 2014. This young company has produced colorful and striking bags that are PETA approved. The brand is also certified fur-free.
Designers use cork and vegan leather to produce their medium-sized bags.
One of their most popular products is the MAX-BRIGHTY PINK.
Pixie Mood
In 2010, Pixie Mood set out to create stylish and practical vegan handbags. All of their products are made from eco-friendly materials such as recycled nylon and wood pulp.
Plus, they are all certified by PETA.
One of our favorite bags from Pixie Mood is the Harper Shoulder Bag. This bag features a top zipper closure and an adjustable strap.
The Harper shoulder bag is available in black, blush, and brown. You may also like the Jasmine Bag, which is a magnetic button closure.
Ceibo
The designer, Maria, makes all of these vegan handbags by hand. She uses materials such as Pinetex, leather made from pineapple leaves.
One of her signature vegan creations is the “Ring Tote”. This bag features metal ring handles and a magnetic clasp.
What Makes a Product Cruelty- Free?
The term “cruelty-free” is most commonly used in the cosmetics and personal care industry, and indicates that animal testing was not used at any stage during the development of the product.
To be considered cruelty-free by PETA and Vegan Action, a company must not test any of its products or ingredients on animals.
In addition, a company must not contract with any third party to conduct animal tests on its behalf, and must pledge not to sell in countries—such as China—that require animal testing.
What is Vegan Leather and How Is It Made?
Vegan leather is a textile that is made to look and feel like leather, but without using any animal products.
It is usually made from polyurethane (PU), a type of plastic, or from PVC.
Vegan leather can also be made from natural materials such as pineapple leaves, cork, or even olive tree bark.
Is Vegan Leather Good for the Environment?
Vegan leather made from polyurethane or PVC is not biodegradable, and therefore not good for the environment.
However, vegan leather made from natural materials such as pineapple leaves or cork is biodegradable, and therefore more environmentally friendly.
How Does One Care for Vegan Leather Bags?
Vegan leather bags can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners, as these can damage the material.
Once you have cleaned your bag, be sure to allow it to air dry completely before storing it away.
