What is a Vegan Bag?
- Soho Francotte
- May 25
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 21
A vegan bag is a fashion accessory made without any animal-derived materials: no leather, no fur, no wool, no silk, and no animal-based glues or dyes. It constitutes an ethical alternative that respects animals, without compromising on style or quality.
Complete definition of a vegan bag
Essential characteristics
A vegan bag is distinguished by:
0% animal materials: Total exclusion of leather, fur, wool, silk.
Next-gen materials: Use of innovative bio-based materials.
Ethical approach: Respect for animal welfare and the environment.
Premium quality: Resistance and aesthetics comparable to traditional materials.
Beyond the absence of leather: a global approach
The term "vegan bag" goes beyond the mere absence of leather. It encompasses a philosophy that prioritizes animal welfare and, increasingly, an environmentally friendly approach. At Lubay, this approach is at the heart of every creation, by selecting innovative and respectful materials. Lubay, this commitment is at the heart of every creation, as we select innovative and respectful materials.
Why choose a vegan bag?
Animal welfare: By opting for a vegan bag, you help reduce the demand for animal products and limit animal exploitation.
Reduced environmental impact: Traditional leather production consumes enormous amounts of water, energy, and toxic chemicals. Vegan alternatives, particularly biomaterials, have a smaller environmental footprint.
Innovation and diversity: The market for vegan materials is booming. New materials emerge regularly, offering unexpected textures, finishes, and performances.
Quality and longevity: Contrary to popular belief, many vegan materials are extremely durable, designed to last and easy to care for.
Innovative materials for vegan bags
Plant-based and bio-based alternatives
Leap® (apple-based)
Developed by Beyond Leather (Germany).
91% bio-based certified by USDA.
Vegan certified by the Vegan Society.
Transforms apple waste into premium material.
Cork
Harvested in Portugal without felling trees.
Naturally waterproof, lightweight, and durable.
PETA Vegan Approved and OEKO-TEX® certified.
Promotes CO₂ capture.
Grape Skin® - VEGEA (grape residue-based)
Manufactured in Italy.
Gives wine waste a second life.
55% recycled grape pomace.
REACH, GRS and PETA Vegan Approved certified.
Piñatex® (pineapple fiber-based)
Made from pineapple leaf fibers.
Robust texture and unique relief.
Natural and high-performance alternative.
The importance of accurate terminology
It is crucial to name things correctly. The expression "vegan leather" is a lexical oxymoron, as leather, by definition, is of animal origin. Using precise terms to describe materials is a guarantee of transparency and honesty towards the consumer. At Lubay, you will find the specific names of the materials we use (Leap®, Grape Skin®, Cork) for clear and accurate information. We have also written an article on this topic, which you can find here.
Lubay: vegan bags made in Belgium
At Lubay, every bag demonstrates that contemporary aesthetics and commitment can meet with rigor. Our bags are designed and manufactured in Belgium, using carefully selected vegan materials from Europe.
Our unique approach:
Clean and timeless design: Sophisticated lines, intense or luminous colors.
Next-gen materials: Grape Skin®, Leap®, Cork - all made in Europe.
Belgian manufacturing: Traceability and high standards.
Terminological transparency: Precise names for each material.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Bags
What is a vegan bag?
A vegan bag is a fashion accessory entirely designed without any animal-derived materials. This includes leather, fur, wool, silk, and even certain glues or dyes. The goal is to offer an ethical and animal-friendly alternative, without compromising on style or quality.
Why choose a vegan bag?
Opting for a vegan bag is a choice motivated by several commitments: animal welfare, material innovation, and durability. The vegan alternatives we use are selected for their robustness and ease of care.
What innovative materials are used for Lubay vegan bags?
The premium vegan materials used at Lubay include Leap® (apple-based), Cork (harvested without felling trees), and Grape Skin® - VEGEA (grape residue-based). These plant-based alternatives are selected for their quality and ethical manufacturing in Europe.
Are Lubay bags durable and designed to last?
Yes, absolutely. At Lubay, we select innovative vegan materials, developed in Europe, for their superior quality and robustness. Whether it's apple-based Leap®, grape residue-based Grape Skin®, or cork, our bags are designed to accompany you daily and withstand the test of time, while maintaining their refined aesthetic. They are made to accompany you faithfully, year after year.
Why does Lubay prioritise transparency in its terminology?
At Lubay, transparency is paramount. The expression "vegan leather" is, in our view, a misnomer because leather, by definition, is of animal origin. We prefer to use the specific names of our innovative materials (Leap®, Grape Skin®, Cork) for precise and clear terminology, reflecting our authentic commitment. For more information, we invite you to read our dedicated article on this topic.
Where are Lubay vegan bags made?
Each Lubay bag is designed and manufactured in Belgium, in our own workshop. We prioritize local craftsmanship and transparent production, thus guaranteeing premium quality and impeccable traceability, far from mass production.
To learn more about our materials, click here.
And to discover our vegan bags made in Belgium, click here.
