Soulmatte Beyond Fashion Making the Sustainable Choice Featured | SOULMATTE
July 7, 2025

Shopping Guide: Vegan or Real Leather?

Vegan Leather vs Plant-Based Leather vs Traditional Leather

For years, leather has been a symbol of luxury and durability. However, the environmental and ethical impact of traditional leather production has led many to seek sustainable alternatives. This has given rise to "vegan leather," a broad term encompassing various synthetic and plant-based materials. But what's the difference, and how to make a more conscious choice? Let’s break it down.

Vegan Leather vs Real Leather

🐂Traditional Leather

🏭Vegan Leather (Synthetic)

🌵Plant-Based Leather

What❔
Made from animal hides, typically cowhide, through a chemically intensive tanning process.
Often made from Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) or Polyurethane (PU), plastic-based materials.
Made from renewable resources like 🌵cactus, 🍍pineapple leaves, 🍎apple peels, or 🍄‍🟫mushrooms.
Pros✅
Durable, naturally water-resistant, develops a unique patina over time.
Affordable, widely available, comes in various colors and textures.
Sustainable, partial to 100% biodegradable or compostable, often made with less water and fewer chemicals than traditional or synthetic leathers, and cruelty-free.
Cons❌
High environmental impact due to resource consumption (water, land) and pollution from tanning chemicals, as well as ethical concerns regarding animal welfare.
Not biodegradable, production can release harmful chemicals, doesn't age as gracefully as traditional leather, can crack or peel over time.
Can be more expensive than synthetic options, may require specific care instructions, limited availability.
Soulmatte Beyond Fashion Making the Sustainable Choice Vegan Leather scaled | SOULMATTE

Why Plant-Based Leather is the Future of Fashion:

Plant-based leather offers the best of both worlds: the luxurious look and feel of leather without the ethical and environmental baggage. It's a testament to innovation and sustainability. By choosing a plant-based handbag, you’re making a positive impact on the planet and supporting cruelty-free practices.

“Imagine leather that’s kind to animals and the planet. Plant-based makes it possible.”

1.⁠ ⁠Brand Philosophy: Understand the brand's philosophy and story. Choose brands that align with your values and prioritize transparency and responsible sourcing.

2. Professional Certifications: Opt for materials with professional certifications such as "PETA approved" or GRS (Global Recycled Standard) certification.

3.⁠ ⁠Beware of Wording: "Vegan tanned leather" or "vegetable-tanned leather" does not mean plant-based leather. It refers to animal leather tanned using plant-based tanning agents (such as tree bark, wood, or fruit). "Vegan leather" does not necessarily contain plant-based ingredients. If plant-based content is not explicitly stated, it's likely to be artificial leather made of PU or PVC.

Investing in a plant-based handbag is an investment in the future of fashion—a future that’s stylish, sustainable, and kind.

"Nature is my muse, design is my playground." - Ellis, founder and designer of SOULMATTE, inviting you to explore a world of mindful aesthetics.