9 Stylish Vegan Leather Bags That Look Like the Real Thing

By Monica Mendal
March 30, 2019
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Credit: Courtesy of the retailers
Over the years, the fashion industry has been taking strides towards sustainability in an effort to reduce the industry’s collective carbon footprint and avoid animal cruelty worldwide. One of the most popular sustainable trends that designers from Stella McCartney to newcomer Nanushka have been perpetuating in their collections is vegan leather, otherwise known as faux leather.

Vegan leather is an alternative to genuine leather that uses synthetic plastics (polyurethane) or even some plant-based leathers made out of pineapple leaves (pinatex) to give off the illusion of “real leather.” These designers have proven that sustainable fashion is not only ethical and necessary, but also super stylish.

Related:This Brand Makes the Most Flattering Wrinkle-resistant Dresses

As consumers, it’s our duty to make conscious decisions on how we choose to reduce our own carbon footprints. So, how can travelers buy into this trend? Easy. Start with your travel bags. We've rounded up the best vegan leather backpacks, totes, cross-body bags, belt bags, and even a weekender duffel — there’s a vegan leather travel bag for all of your jet-setting needs. The best part? They’re just as luxe as the real thing.
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Stella McCartney Reversible Faux Leather Tote

Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

Stella McCartney has been leading the charge on sustainable high fashion since she first launched the brand. All of her bags are made from 100 percent vegan materials and are the ultimate proof that luxury and sustainability can go hand-in-hand. Also reversible to a golden suede-like material, this roomy tote is the perfect investment travel bag.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $1,250

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Mali + Lily Reversible Vegan Leather Tote

Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

This reversible Mali + Lily tote can be taken from a business meeting to the beach. Wear it with the sleek vegan leather on the outside, then reverse it for a tropical style fit for the sand.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $78

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Urban Originals Splendour Vegan Leather Backpack

Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

This durable vegan backpack from Urban Originals is the perfect bag for a long day exploring a new city.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $98

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Angela Roi Hamilton Round Cross-body

Credit: Courtesy of Angela Roi

You’ll find it hard to believe that Angela Roi’s high-quality bags aren’t actually real leather. This cross-body bag is a chic animal-friendly bag fit for all occasions.

To buy: angelaroi.com, $205

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Pixie Mood Ashton Backpack II

Credit: Courtesy of Pixie Mood

This vegan backpack by Pixie Mood is sleek and functional in design. The spacious interior has multiple compartments and pockets making it a practical buy if you’re traveling with tech.

To buy: pixiemood.com, $85

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Nanushka Vegan Leather Belt Bag

Credit: Courtesy of Net-a-Porter

Nanushka has taken the fashion world by storm with its stylish collection of vegan leather clothing and accessories. This vegan croc belt bag is the ultimate fashion staple for all traveling It-girls.

To buy: net-a-porter.com, $385

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Topshop Spark Piece Faux Leather Hobo Bag

Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

Sophisticated, timeless, and affordable, this Topshop vegan handbag is the ideal everyday bag and the perfect alternative to real leather.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $52

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Von Holzhausen Large Shopper

Credit: Courtesy of Von Holzhausen

Minimal in design, von Holzhausen’s vegan shopper tote is elegant, lightweight, and can be worn crossbody for an added value of functionality.

To buy: vonholzhausen.com, $450

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Matt + Nat Blake Weekender

Credit: Courtesy of Matt & Nat

This Quebec-based brand crafts its stylish vegan leather bags with eco-friendly materials like recycled nylon, cork, and rubber — approximately 21 plastic bottles are recycled for every bag they produce. This duffel has adjustable straps for comfort, two separate main compartments, and a front sleeve pocket that’s perfect for stowing your passport and travel documents at the airport.

To buy: mattandnat.com, $235

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