Vegan Fashion Week, Day 3: Handbags

With so many products made from the skin of cows, alligators, ostriches, and snakes, what’s a girl to do when shopping for a bag that is both stylish and cruelty-free? Read our guide to vegan handbags, that’s what! From ultra-chic to everyday utility, check out our recommendations, and you’ll have this vegan thing in the bag. 

Ayva by Matt & Nat
Every bag by this all-vegan brand is made from 100-percent recycled plastic bottles. This fold-over tote in deep purple, with an attachable shoulder strap and hidden magnetic closure, can also be worn as an oversized clutch, giving you the ability to transition easily from office meeting to happy hour.
 
Oasis by Urban Expressions
A vegan brand formed by two friends in 2005, Urban Expressions offers a wide selection of unique luxury handbags. Our favorite is this super-detailed seafoam woven hobo bag with a pinch of glimmer.
 

Sebastian Snake Weave by Cornelia Guest
Cornelia Guest believes you don’t need to skin a snake to evoke the animal’s spirit, as this slithery faux python bag is roomy and features a relaxed silhouette.

 
Cottontail by GUNAS

This bold red bag is dedicated to the cottontail, that bunny from our childhood whose population has sadly seen a sharp decline since the 1960s. And in keeping with the throwback theme, Gunas was launched in 2009 at Nolcha, a New York Fashion Week event that features green designers.
 
Playful Handbag by Parfois
A Spanish accessories brand, this handbag is simple but oh-so chic. Black on the outside, brown in the inside, with expanding side zippers and the option to slip it over your shoulder or carry it by hand, this bag epitomizes “playful.”

“V”irkin by Freedom of Animals
The cruelty-free version of the famed Birkin bag, the Virkin is a classy handbag from a vegan company with high fashion standards and ethical morals. Plus, 20 percent of each Virkin bag sale goes to PETA.

Lattice Love Ivory Clutch from Lulus
Although not completely cruelty-free, Lulu’s has dedicated vegan search buttons, which is how we found this fancy little clutch made from ivory-hued faux leather overlaid with metallic laser-cut details. A side-wall pocket provides room for cosmetics and phone while a 46-inch clip transforms the clutch into a full-fledged bag.

Bleeker Bucket Bag by Free People
Bucket bags are hot right now, making this tan vegan leather bundle a great way to get in on the trend. A drawstring closure, tassel-accented ends, and faux suede lining prove “chic” and “cruelty-free” aren’t mutually exclusive.

Short Handle Crossbody by Cooperative
Available at Urban Outfitters, this asymmetrical bag in a striking emerald green makes a bold fashion statement. Plus, it comes with an interchangeable crossbody strap and tote handles, which leave its carrying method in your hands.
 
Angelina by Susan Nichole
A cruelty-free celebration of the crocodile, the Angelina satchel is the newest bag by fashion-lover turned vegan designer Susan Nichole. We love the top zipper closure and gold tone hardware.