In a time when ethical materials and sustainability are at the forefront of the fashion conversation, it’s easy to note that most of the progress happening in the area of new fabrics is plant-based. While leather sales are beginning to decline, material innovation is overwhelmingly vegan.
One of the most exciting developments on the scene is apple leather, produced by using cores, peel and pulp discarded by the juicing industry, dehydrating them and combining them with polyurethane to turn into a resistant leather-like fabric. The result is a durable, stylish and versatile material that more and more niche brands are starting to incorporate into their collections.
This fabric not only avoids the death of millions of animals, it also avoids the greenhouse gas emissions connected to the leather industry. Win-win.
We’ve picked our favourite accessories and apparel made from this innovative material to inspire a myriad of summer looks.
The apple-derived material used by Alexandra K uses apple seeds, cores and peel to create a 100% biodegradable material. This bag is the ideal work style – spacious and versatile, it’s a chic and comfortable choice for everyday use.
Wear with: a structured dress in ramie or cupro
This sleek and breathable design is made sustainably in Portugal and is an easy and effortless go-to design for any summer outfit.
Wear with: a vintage maxi dress
Robe Montparnasse, Poétique Paris
Proving that apple leather is not only for accessories, Poétique Paris offers this mini dungaree dress to slip on over a (wool-free) knit or a t-shirt for a casual yet sophisticated outfit.
Wear with: leather-free ankle boots and a Tencel shirt
A pair of simple, clean white sneakers embellished by a removable black and white fringed panel. Wear them your way – and enjoy the surprise on people’s faces when you tell them it’s apple leather.
Wear with: boyfriend jeans and a crisp organic cotton shirt
An unusual statement piece that will be a conversation starter. This textured clutch also features magnets to attach a top handle for a different take on the look.
Wear with:skinny jeans and a silk-free floaty top.
Madita Pale Blush Apple-Skin Wallet, Mavolu
This pastel-hued wallet is made from 50% apple leather and 50% PU – and it’s lined with recycled PET bottles and ghost nets from fishing found in the ocean.
Wear with: that all-white suit you scored at the thrift store.
This may just be the ultimate sustainable shoe. The upper is made from apple leather while the sole is crafted from recycled rubber taken from old car tires. The insole is also made using recycled materials. This sweatshop-free design is made in Portugal.
Wear with: an organic denim jumpsuit.
Vivica Red Berry Handbag, Nuuwaï
This PETA-Approved Vegan brand has you covered next time you need a bag for a night out (or countless nights out – apple leather is notoriously durable). This sophisticated design lined with recycled polyester is our top choice for an evening look.
Wear with: a silk-free LBD.
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