Why Cork Leather is the New Black in Sustainable Fashion!

What is Cork Leather?

Cork leather comes from the bark of the oak tree, which is mostly found in the Mediterranean countries of Portugal, Spain and Italy. The bark is stripped off the tree (without damaging the tree), left to air dry and mature after which it is processed to form fabric sheets. That's how you get this 'leather' type material that feels almost like suede but is extremely light-weight and supple. Best part is that its 100 vegan, natural and organic.

Using eco-friendly dyes, the cork fabric is coloured (at House of Ethics we like our colours to be neutral and classic in shades of brown, navy and black) or embossed with patterns and impressions. You can read more about how cork leather is one of the most sustainable vegan leather alternatives in this blog post.

The bark of the cork oak tree is processed to create cork leather

What are the benefits of using cork leather?

As more and more people are turning towards a vegan lifestye and transitioning away from the world of fast fashion, there is a move towards finding fabrics and materials that natural, cruelty-free and environmentally-friendly. Cork Leather checks off a lot of boxes, as the cork fabric is:

• 100% plant-based

• Chemical-free

• Organic

• Hypoallergenic

• Plastic-free

• Ethically-sourced

• Light-weight

• Water-resistant

• Scratch-resistant

• Easy to maintain

• Affordable

Using Cork Leather for Sustainable Fashion

Its not surprising then that the fashion industry has embraced cork leather as the 'new black'. Both its durability and uniqueness has made cork leather a fast favourite for a number of high-end and luxury design houses. Brands from Prada to Calvin Klien are increasingly integrating cork leather and cork fabrics, particulalry within their footwear designs and accessories. In fact, its surpassing many other types of materials, particulary Pu / faux leather.

For the above, and so many more reasons, cork leather is becoming a vegan leather of choice for so many brands and designers. Since its durable and can withstand stains, scratches and a full British summer downpour, the high quality and long lifespan of cork leather means that it resonates really well with the principles of the slow fashion movement too.

Cork leather bags are extremely light weight and easy to maintain, especially when compared to bags made with animal or even Pu leather.

How is Cork Leather used in fashion?

As you become more aware of its uses in your life, you'll see cork and cork leather used everywhere around your home, your office, even in rockets designed by NASA! In the world of fashion itself, cork leather is most popularly used as an alternative to animal leather particularly when it comes to vegan fashion accessories. You will find cork leather used as a material for:

• Handbags (tote, shoulder bags, crossbod bags)

• Backpacks (including diaper bags)

• Laptop bags and sleeves

• Cosmetic bags and pouches for toilettries

• Shoes and sandals

• Jewelry (necklaces, earrings, bracelets)

• Belts and suspenders

• Hats and fedoras

• Wallets, card holders and coin purses

• Keyrings and key fobs

• Sunglass cases and covers

• Wristwatches

Cork leather laptop bags and wallets have a beautiful unique look

You can browse through the collection of our bags, wallets and accessories for women and men to see for yourself how beautiful and high quality cork leather is, especially when compared to other chepater Pu leather alternatives.

I hope you found this article useful and feel free to save it or come back to it again, especially when you're looking to buy yourself or a loved one a beautiful vegan gift for their birthday or Christmas! You can also subscribe for more content or get 10% off your entire order when you sign up.