Leather production in India, while culturally significant, poses environmental challenges. Vegan and sustainable alternatives are gaining popularity, with brands like Roadster, Doodlage, and Brown Living offering eco-conscious fashion choices. These products combine style with responsibility, supporting India’s green movement. From upcycled materials to organic cotton, Indian consumers can now embrace fashion that respects both tradition and the planet.
Leather has long been a staple in Indian fashion, revered for its durability and style. However, the environmental toll of traditional leather production is significant — from water-intensive tanning processes to hazardous chemical use and greenhouse gas emissions. In India, where leather manufacturing is widespread in cities like Kanpur and Chennai, addressing these issues is crucial for sustainable development.
Fortunately, the rise of vegan leather and sustainable fashion alternatives is transforming the industry. Indian brands and e-commerce platforms are championing eco-conscious choices that blend cultural aesthetics with environmental responsibility.
For example, Myntra’s Roadster sustainable collection offers stylish bags and footwear crafted with innovative vegan leather alternatives. These products reduce reliance on animal hides and toxic processing, promoting cleaner production methods. Similarly, Doodlage creates upcycled fashion by repurposing textile waste, minimizing landfill impact while delivering unique, trendy apparel.
Brown Living (brownliving.in) focuses on sustainable lifestyle products including vegan leather goods and accessories made with natural materials, supporting local artisans and ethical manufacturing. Meanwhile, FabIndia and Nicobar emphasize handloom and organic cotton, integrating traditional Indian craftsmanship with eco-friendly practices.
For casual wear, ether’s organic cotton t-shirts on Myntra and Bamboo Tribe’s bamboo fiber clothing available offer breathable, natural alternatives to synthetic fabrics, reducing chemical use and water consumption.
In ethnic fashion, House of Pataudi’s sustainable line on Myntra combines royal heritage with eco-conscious design, appealing to consumers who value tradition and sustainability. Upasana’s handloom clothing further supports rural weavers, preserving India’s textile heritage while promoting green fashion.
By choosing these brands, Indian consumers contribute to a shift towards more sustainable fashion practices. Cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi are witnessing growing demand for vegan and eco-friendly apparel, reflecting a broader cultural move to protect the environment.
Adopting vegan leather and sustainable alternatives not only lessens environmental impact but also encourages ethical labor practices and supports local economies. As India’s fashion landscape evolves, embracing these innovations ensures style does not come at the planet’s expense.