Finding the perfect bag that meets all of your needs can be a challenge. Finding a bag that is functional, stylish and sustainably and ethically made can be even more challenging. To make things easier for you, we have compiled a list of seven of our favourite sustainable handbags. These ethical bags are kind to people, animals, and the planet, not to mention ridiculously good looking.
7 Sustainable and Ethical Handbags We Know You’ll Love
BEEN London
Fields Tote – Ships internationally
BEEN London is a London-based brand turning waste into timeless accessories you’d want to use every day. All its products are made from materials that have been something else in a previous life, including recycled leather offcuts and plastic bottles.
Elvis & Kresse
Tote bag – Ships internationally
English brand Elvis & Kresse has been rescuing raw materials and transforming them into luxury lifestyle accessories since it was founded in 2005. All items are ethically handmade using eco-friendly materials that would otherwise be sent to landfill, and 50% of the profits from their collections are donated to charity. This bag is made from genuine decommissioned fire-hose and lined using reclaimed auction banner.
Deux Mains
Leather and inner tube messenger bag – Ships internationally
Deux Mains is a Haitian owned fashion company producing high quality, long-lasting products while employing and empowering marginalised Haitian communities. Deux Mains uses high-quality, long-lasting materials including upcycled tires, and it is a leading advocate for better labour rights.
GROUNDTRUTH
Shopping Tote 3.1 – Ships internationally from the UK
UK-based GROUNDTRUTH grew from three sisters’ shared belief in the power of collaboration, and their drive to protect people and nurture the planet. Together, they saw the opportunity to design problem-solving travel goods that drive positive change: reducing plastic pollution and improving people’s lives.
Gunas
Cottontail Vegan Leather Handbag – Ships internationally
American accessory brand Gunas are committed to being 100% vegan, and is proudly PETA approved. Gunas do not use any PVC in their bags, and are working towards using more upcycled fabrics. We love that the Livia shoulder bag can also double as a backpack.
The Social Outfit
Romance was born foldover purse – Ships internationally
The Social Outfit is an ethical trading social enterprise in Sydney that provides employment and training in the fashion industry to people from refugee and new migrant communities. The Social Outfit uses recycled or waste fabric in many of its designs, saving that fabric from making its way to a landfill. The Romance was Born feather purse is lined with donated fabric, meaning no purse is exactly the same.
Stella McCartney
Falabella GO Oversized Tote – made from recycled nylon
At the slightly pricier end of the scale is Stella McCartney a luxury label committed to operating a modern and responsible business. Stella McCartney does not use leather, down, fur, or angora, and it has set some good environmental standards and is a member of the Ethical Trading Initiative. The super luxe Falabella GO oversized tote is the perfect size for an overnight stay or weekend away, and we love that it is made out of recycled nylon.
Handbags aren’t your thing? Have a look at our favourite sustainable bum bags and fanny packs
Editor's note
Feature image via Unsplash. All images via the brands mentioned. Good On You publishes the world’s most comprehensive ratings of fashion brands’ impact on people, the planet and animals. Use our Directory to search more than 2,000 brands. We may earn a commission on sales made using our offer codes or affiliate links.
