Why vegan leather is not what you think: myths, ethics & impact

When people search “why vegan leather is bad,” they often stumble into myths; that vegan materials fade quickly, smell like plastic, or aren’t as durable as animal leather. The reality? Not all vegan leather is created equal, and some alternatives can be better for both people and the planet.

At George & Mary, we stock non-animal bags and shoes from ethical suppliers who prioritise durability, style, and thoughtful materials. Many of our pieces use recycled PU and recycled PET linings, giving waste a second life while avoiding animal exploitation. We will be incorporating the use of plant-based leathers as they become more available to the market - a very exciting next step.

Leather, by contrast, carries hidden costs that most people don’t see. According to PETA, raising animals for leather requires huge amounts of land, water, and feed, and contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. The tanning process often involves hazardous chemicals including (but not limited to) formaldehyde, chromium salts, dyes, and even cyanide-based treatments. These can pollute waterways and harm workers. Beyond that, there is the very obvious problem of animal suffering - the details and horrors of these we will leave with you to decide if you wish to engage with. These impacts make conventional leather ethically and environmentally problematic.

So, is vegan leather “bad”? Only if it’s poorly made. High-quality vegan leather can resist scuffs, retain shape, and feel premium. When paired with thoughtful design, solid hardware, and good care, these pieces can last for years, just like their animal-based counterparts. The difference is that you avoid contributing to cruelty and many of the environmental harms associated with traditional leather. In fact, one of our suppliers calculated that it would take more than 11 times the amount of carbon dioxide in production of one of their flagship products if it were made with animal leather instead of recycled PU.

When choosing vegan leather, check the quality of the hardware and stitching, and select designs you’ll use every day. Even without seeing the production firsthand, you can make a conscious choice by supporting suppliers who align with your values.

Material choice isn’t the only issue. Overconsumption is fashion’s bigger problem. Whether it’s animal leather or plastic-based alternatives. Millions of bags, shoes, and clothes end up in landfill every year, many after only a few uses. True sustainability comes from buying less, choosing well, and reusing pieces for as long as possible. That’s why we focus on styles built for durability and timelessness, not trends that fade after a season.

At George & Mary, we curate bags and footwear that balance style, function, and conscience. Each piece is designed to be used, re-used, and loved for years, because longevity is the real measure of sustainability. Choosing well-made vegan leather will help to reduce harm, while providing you with quality, durability, and pieces that fit your life beautifully.

If you’ve been hesitant about vegan leather, consider this: a single well-chosen bag or pair of shoes from an ethical supplier can save countless animals, reduce environmental impact, and still deliver the style and durability you want.

If you’re ready to invest in fewer, better pieces, our collection is a good place to start.

Sources: 
PETA & SANS BEAST