The fashion industry is transforming, embracing a movement toward sustainability and ethical practices. In today's society, sustainable fashion is not merely a trend but an essential aspect, showcasing a dedication to the environment. The sustainable fashion sector in India is on an upward trajectory, with projections indicating a market size of $9 billion by 2025. This growth is fuelled by a rise in consumer awareness and a desire for eco-friendly and ethically produced clothing. Indian brands are at the forefront of this change, providing luxurious and carefully designed items that connect us to our cultural roots. Heightened concerns surrounding environmental challenges, such as climate change and pollution, have prompted Indian consumers to seek eco-conscious options, including sustainable fashion. They are increasingly appreciating brands that emphasize social accountability. Here are the five eco-friendly and vegan leather fashion companies promoting sustainability in India.

Zouk

Zouk brings a daily lifestyle with a touch of modernity and tradition. Handcrafted, cruelty-free, proudly Indian- Zouk is all about connecting vibrant Indian culture with the contemporary world. The beauty and elegance of Jute was discovered by Disha Singh while taking a ‘Design thinking’ course at IIM Ahmedabad, along with 80 classmates and coursemates. She visited a village in Kutch in 2015, where products crafted by local women were there. And the most shocking fact was that not even a single product was sold. Disha was surprised why, despite their appeal, when she asked some of her friends, they resonated with the same thought of starting Zouk.

The company was conceptualized to create a modern Indian accessories brand that reimagines traditional handicraft fabrics for the new millennials. To start, they produced their inaugural collection of 20 laptop bags. Ikat fabric from Kutch was used along with leather. These were showcased at a flea market in Mumbai. Remarkably, all the bags were sold within the first five hours. It really boosted Disha’s confidence to take up this full time.

Arture

Arture, co-founded by Keshsa Vasant and Shivani Patel in Chennai, India, is an internet-first brand established in 2015. This vegan leather handbag and wallet brand sources all its materials from 100 percent natural sources since day one. They get their raw materials from the place where the plant-based fabrics naturally grow and where they are harvested, then optimally used material comes next. ‘Less is more’ when it comes to extraction from nature is their motto. All aspects of their business would make them more sustainable strive towards that end.

There are four artisans in-house, three men and one woman-who ensure that opportunities are given to all artisans without any gender discrimination. They utilize cruelty-free and eco-friendly materials, including cork, cactus leather, and organic cotton. Whenever feasible, they avoid using any materials that could harm the environment. Their packaging incorporates recycled materials and is entirely plastic-free.

Artella

Artella, created by Rashi Sanghvi, has rigorously stood by the ethics of animal welfare. As a lifelong vegetarian, she has always tried to find substitutes for leather products. While studying abroad, she met many people who sharpened her perspectives and dreams, inspiring her vision. Artella is a combination of concern for animals, fashion, and flora. This Indian label specializes in vegan accessories that are non-leather, eco-friendly, and plant-based, marrying style with ethics.

Artella was launched in 2020, aiming to change the landscape of everyday use accessories with sleek, minimalistic, animal-friendly, and eco-friendly features. Artella embraces contemporary inspirations, however, it is rooted in timeless design and offers bold vegan accessories artfully crafted to be customized, transcending fashion. The PETA-certified startup aims to provide a range of fashion accessories, including wallets, tote bags, top-handle bags, cross-body bags, laptop bags, and belts for both men and women.

Aulive

Aulive is a bootstrapped company located in Delhi, India, established in 2017 by Yashraj V Rathor and Wamika Shekhawat. It functions as an internet-first brand that specializes in handcrafted vegan leather handbags and wallets. Aulive is an appealing brand founded on the commitment to producing high-quality, cruelty-free goods. Aulive utilizes premium vegan leather to create eco-friendly products. Their sustainable alternative is sourced from Italy, renowned for its quality and minimal environmental impact. Their handcrafted duffel bags, backpacks, and purses are both simple and elegant. This plant-based leather alternative is derived from pineapples, coconuts, and cork.

The Burlap People

The Burlap People was established by Samriddh Burman, who is often referred to as ‘Chief Jujumahn.’ The brand also includes Karuna Ezara Parikh as a key member. Samriddh Burman's vision for The Burlap People was influenced by his family's jute enterprise in Calcutta and his upbringing in sustainability and mindful living during his time at Luther College. He merged these experiences to develop a brand centered on eco-friendly and fashionable burlap products. Karuna Ezara Parikh became part of the team, and they share a mutual enthusiasm for creativity, mindful consumer habits, and utilizing social media to foster a community around sustainable brands.

The Burlap People works in partnership with third and fourth-generation indigenous artisans to produce aesthetically pleasing, high-quality, natural products that are also environmentally sustainable and durable. 

 

Also Read: Inimitable Indian Traditional Art and Handicrafts Increasing Global Demand

This initiative blends fabric made from natural fibers such as jute and cotton with reclaimed leather. Every bag is handcrafted without a focus on mass production. It stands out as one of the pioneering Instagram-based businesses in India.