The first day of spring embodies a time of renewal and what better way to celebrate the new season with a fresh handbag? As more brands move away from fur and leather, we choose to showcase the best bags from sustainable designers for an environmentally-aware approach to spring.
Kent Stetson
The Disco Ball Clutch ($298).
The Vibes clutch ($198).
The Rhode Island-based designer is consistently a New York Fashion Week accessories favorite, with influencers and partygoers alike donning his signature coated vegan leather crossbody chain purses. The new Vibes oversized clutch elevates any outfit, perfect for a night out paired with white denim and heels. For a sleek soiree, opt for the statement Disco Ball clutch with rhinestone appliqués.
Sol and Selene
The Runway tote ($120)
The Flying High tote ($110)
The new It-girl handbag of the season is no doubt the Flying High tote from the brand. The silver camo color is perfect for a street style take, and the puffer exterior provides a sleek look while supporting belongings with sturdy extra padding. The roomy tote has multiple inner compartments as well as a mesh sleeve, but more importantly, the Flying High bag is the ultimate Insta-worthy accessory.
Pixie Mood
The Stella tote ($100)
We can’t believe it’s not leather! The Canadian brand has created the most buttery vegan leather material, as proven in their subtle ombre Stella tote. The zipper-top bag sits perfectly on the shoulder and easily expands to fit a variety of items. It’s on-trend without being trendy– a classic piece for all seasons.
The Hazel tote ($95)
For a work-friendly style, the Hazel tote boasts an asymmetrical faux suede face. The muted rose color is perfect for springtime while still a staple neutral for winter and fall. Worn either as a cross body or over the shoulder, the Hazel tote has three interior pockets for an easily organized purse. The PETA-approved cruelty-free brand also offers trendy waist bags and wallets for a full accessory closet.
Matt and Nat
The Mulan bag ($125)
Named for mat(t)erial and nature, the Montreal brand uses recycled plastic bottles, cork, rubber, and biodegradable polyurethane for a fully leather-free design. Their latest Dwell collection, featuring the standout drawstring cross body Mulan bag in whisper, blends earth tones and bold colors for a springtime palette.
GUNAS
The Madison tote ($225)
The cruelty-free vegan brand prides itself on being “the voice of animals in the fashion industry.” Each handbag is manufactured in ethically-run factories using only upcycled, recycled, and vintage materials when possible. GUNAS is also PVC-free. Their latest Madison tote is an updated take on a classic silhouette, and the navy and tan two-tone color combo pairs nicely with denim for warm weather style.
31 Bits
The Brooklyn Hinge bag ($95)
Community-focused 31 Bits supports artisans throughout the world with fair wages and ethical working conditions. 31 Bits provides a platform for international female artists using traditional weaving techniques to enter the global market through online retail. “We realized our customers have the purchasing power to provide dignified job opportunities to artisans all over the globe,” co-founder and brand director Jessie Simonson said. “We use our love for fashion and design to drive positive change in the world, by providing artisans with fair pay, safe working conditions and holistic care. We want women to live inspiring lives and make a difference in the lives of others.”
The brand’s Brooklyn Hinge bag has a detachable shoulder strap and brass trim. This style is handmade in Bali, and has a vintage aesthetic.
And so as the temperature warms and flowers bloom, the new trend of eco-friendly handbags are ripe for the purchasing.
