Recently I was asked if buying vegan leather was a more sustainable option than animal leather, and it’s a tricky one to answer! Vegan leather and faux leather are usually the same thing, a material designed to look like leather without using animal hide. Most are made from plastic based materials like PU or PVC, though newer plant based options are emerging. Lifecycle studies, including research presented at the Copenhagen Fashion Summit, have shown cow leather can have a high environmental impact, particularly when livestock emissions and tanning processes are considered. That said, durability matters. A well made leather piece can last decades and be repaired, while some faux leathers may need replacing sooner, which also carries an environmental cost. My advice? Consider your values and aim to maximise cost per wear. Buying fewer, better pieces... whatever the material, is usually the most sustainable approach. LTKaustralia LTKstyletip LTKspring