So, you hear the term “Vegan Leather” and you think, 100% Eco-friendly, animal friendly, no harsh chemicals, sustainable, and all of those other good terms we love to hear. But honestly, how “Vegan” is Vegan Leather? Have you ever really thought about it? Most of you probably haven’t, and that’s A-ok my friends! Because guess what, I have thought if it for you! Why, you ask? Well, honestly y’all, I want you to know what you’re buying. I also want you to know that the term “Vegan Leather” is not as clear cut as it is made out to be.
Let me just dive right into this blog and tell you what Vegan Leather is. It’s PLASTIC y’all! Those terms that you hear of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or PU (polyurethane), are simply plastic. Now, you are probably thinking, plastic is good; we are not harming any animals in the process (I have another take on that too because I also use genuine leather. But, that’s for another blog post). Well, to that statement, I say yes and no to plastic is good. Yes, as in no animal is being used for their hide or fur. No, as in we are talking about plastic and a lot of plastic is made with harsh chemicals that are very dangerous for you and the environment. Remember you guys, plastic is a big topic today. We see so much of it in our oceans because there is no where else for it to go. You can’t even use plastic straws in some states (AZ is not one of those).
Ok Julissa, so you are telling me this Vegan Leather is not all played out to what it’s said to be. So, is it good to buy a Vegan Leather handbag or no? Well, it depends on what you are looking for in a handbag and, in my opinion, what and how long you feel you will use that handbag for. I am also going to tell you to do your research! (But no worries, mine is already done here for you.) Quality is one of the aspects of my business that I strive for. That includes where my materials are coming from and what they are made of.
I have done extensive research on the vinyl fabric I have chosen to use in the making of my handbags. The vinyl I have chosen is an upholstery vinyl, 100% PVC BUT, it is Phthalate free. This is VERY important because Phthalates have been proven to cause cancer as well as many other health issues. (Please take the time to read up on Phthalates here: https://www.bcpp.org/resource/phthalates/). The vinyl fabric used in my handbags is also lead free, BPA free, TRIS free, Formaldehyde free, and does not contain any conflict minerals. It is stain, mildew, and UV resistant and passes anti-bacterial/microbial tests. With all of this being said this material is Prop 65 compliant and AB 2998 compliant (flammability). The vinyl materials I use are also ACT (Association for Contract Textiles) registered.
My handbags are designed to be as environmental friendly as possible, by sourcing materials that are going to be as Eco-friendly as possible. And I have decided to be an owner of a company that is honest and keeps you informed. Not only do I want all of you to ABSOLUTELY LOVE your J. Christine Handbags, but I want them to be as safe as possible. There are a lot of brands that use very cheap PVC/PU products and very cheap usually means unsafe chemicals and a handbag that will not last.
I hope this post has been very informative for all of you who prefer to shop Vegan Leather Handbags and shows you that I do my best to give you the BEST!
Much love,
Your Girl, Julissa