Leather has been an essential material since the dawn of humanity, serving as protection from the elements and creating long-lasting garments. Today, the fashion world still relies heavily on leather, with 50% of leather production used for shoes, 25% for clothing, and 15% for upholstery. However, leather production is not without its environmental consequences. Fortunately, there are innovative, eco-friendly alternatives made from plants and recycled materials, allowing us to embrace a more sustainable future in fashion.
Why Leather Is a Problem
Video сredit: COWSPIRACY
But don’t despair—there are at least ten exciting leather alternatives, made from materials like cactus, mushrooms, cork, apples, and even coffee! These sustainable options are revolutionizing the fashion world and helping to reduce our carbon footprint.
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1. Vegan Leather
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VEERAHApple leather sandals
$111.00 -
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Will’s Vegan StoreChelsea boots
$212.00 -
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NAE Vegan ShoesDerby shoes
$67.00 (On sale) -
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Votch | Immaculate VeganElegant watch
$160.00 -
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VEERAHModular ankle straps
$48.00 -
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Nicholas Kirkwood | PoshmarkPre-loved nude pumps (38)
$250.00 -
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GUNASPrint vegan bag
$212.00 (On sale) -
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GUNASQuilted purse
$249.00 -
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VEERAHRecycled glitter boots
$498.00 -
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Sans BeastSanctuary handbag
$329.00 -
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SPARK + REBEL | EtsyUpcycled harness belt
$199.00 -
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Will’s Vegan StoreVegan belt
$52.00 -
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Sans BeastVegan card holder
$99.00 -
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Sans BeastVegan crossbody bag
$152.00 -
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GUNASVegan crossbody bag
$199.00 -
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Prologue Shoes | Immaculate VeganVegan high boots
$171.00 -
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GUNASVegan laptop bag
$275.00 -
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GUNASVegan leather satchel
$275.00 -
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NOAHVegan loafers
$100.00 (On sale) -
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Sans BeastVegan phone bag
$80.00 -
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BlackCherryKiss | EtsyVegan print boots
$97.00 -
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VEERAHVegan pumps
$328.00 -
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Sans BeastVegan satchel
$229.00 -
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V.GAN | Immaculate VeganVegan slippers
$65.00 -
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Will’s Vegan StoreVegan sneakers
$104.00 -
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VEERAHVegan stiletto pumps
$328.00 -
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GUNASVegan tote bag
$236.00 (On sale) -
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Sans BeastVegan tote bag
$299.00 -
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Sans BeastZip wallet
$65.00
2. Pineapple Leather (Piñatex)
Piñatex is a durable and flexible leather alternative made from pineapple leaf fibers in the Philippines. Developed by Ananas Anam, it’s already being used by eco-conscious brands like Nae and Bohema Clothing to create stunning shoes and accessories. It’s not only 100% eco-friendly but also supports local farming communities by repurposing agricultural waste.

3. MuSkin Mushroom Leather
MuSkin is made from the caps of mushrooms and is biodegradable, waterproof, and non-toxic. This vegan leather is already being used by designers like Nat2, who have launched a Fungi sneaker line. Although production is still limited, MuSkin shows immense potential for future fashion.
4. Corn Leather
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Watson & Wolfe | Immaculate VeganCard wallet
$55.00 (On sale) -
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MashuCorn bag
$218.00 (On sale) -
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MashuCorn bucket bag
$373.00 (On sale) -
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V.GAN | Immaculate VeganCorn leather bag
$185.00 -
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Solari Milano | Immaculate VeganVegan Oxford shoes
$211.00 -
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Flamingos’ LifeVegan sneakers
$190.00
5. Apple and Grape Leather
Apple and grape leather are made from fruit waste, offering a unique texture and feel that is both eco-friendly and versatile. Companies like Happy Genie and Nuuwai are pioneering apple leather bags, while others are exploring grape leather for different products. These materials provide a sustainable alternative with a fresh, modern twist.
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MashuApple leather bag
$355.00 (On sale) -
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Sans BeastApple leather bag
$199.00 -
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NAE Vegan ShoesApple leather belt
$65.00 (On sale) -
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VEERAHApple leather sandals
$111.00 -
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Good GuysApple skin clogs
$73.00 (On sale) -
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O My Bag | UrbankissedCrossbody bag
$235.00 -
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PANGAIAGrape leather sneakers
$55.00 -
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NAE Vegan ShoesVegan boots
$175.00 -
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VEERAHVegan flate mule
$278.00 -
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BLOOM | Immaculate VeganVegan heeled boots
$334.00 -
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NAE Vegan ShoesVegan sandals
$100.00 (On sale)
6. Coffee Leather
Yes, coffee can be more than just your morning fix! German brand Nat2 creates sneakers made from recycled coffee, with 50% of the shoe composed of coffee beans and plants. With a sustainable design and the added bonus of a coffee scent, coffee leather is a fun, eco-conscious option.

7. Cactus Leather (Desserto)
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SPARK + REBEL | EtsyArt vest
$199.00 -
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Sans BeastCactus leather bag
$151.00 -
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BOHEMA | Immaculate VeganCactus leather sandals
$199.00 -
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BOHEMA | UrbankissedCactus leather stilettos
$165.00 -
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SPARK + REBEL | EtsyUnique vegan belt
$150.00 -
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SPARK + REBEL | EtsyUpcycled earrings
$59.00 -
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SPARK + REBEL | EtsyUpcycled shoe accessory
$110.00 -
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SPARK + REBEL | EtsyVegan floral corset
$250.00
8. Recycled Rubber
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PaguroUpcycle | EtsyRubber necklace
$54.00
9. Waxed Cotton

10. Cork
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CorkorCork backpack
$139.00 (On sale) -
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GrowFromNature | EtsyCork bracelet
$20.00 -
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YOKCORK | EtsyCork bracelet
$36.00 -
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Corkor | EtsyCork briefcase
$194.00 -
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GrowFromNature | EtsyCork cap
$56.00 -
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GrowFromNature | EtsyCork clutch
$56.00 (On sale) -
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SvalaCork tote
$195.00 -
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Watson & Wolfe | Immaculate VeganCork vegan belt
$54.00 -
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Watson & Wolfe | Immaculate VeganTravel washbag
$71.00 -
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EatingTheGoober | EtsyUpcycled sandals
$101.00
Bonus: Zoa Leather
Modern Meadow’s Zoa leather is a bio-fabricated leather made from lab-grown collagen. Although not yet widely available, it’s an exciting development that could reshape the leather industry by eliminating the need for animals entirely. This liquid leather can take on any shape and is compatible with a wide range of materials.
Need Help Curating Your Sustainable Wardrobe?
If you’re curious about how to incorporate these eco-friendly alternatives into your wardrobe, Sparkpick’s personal stylists are here to help. Our stylists can guide you in finding the perfect sustainable pieces to fit your personal style while ensuring you’re making eco-conscious choices.
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