Innovative materials redefining faux leather
Faux leather has evolved far beyond its plastic-based origins, thanks to a new wave of innovative materials that are both sustainable and cruelty-free. Among the most exciting developments are plant-based alternatives derived from fungi, apples, and grape skins—resources that are not only renewable but also often repurposed from agricultural waste.
Mycelium, the root structure of fungi, is gaining traction as a leading material in the next generation of faux leather. It can be grown in controlled environments with minimal water and energy, and the resulting material mimics the texture and durability of animal leather. Mycelium leather is soft, flexible, and biodegradable, making it an eco-conscious choice for designers and consumers alike.
Apple leather, made from the leftover pulp and peel from apple juice production, is another standout innovation. This material is lightweight, breathable, and has a smooth finish that closely resembles traditional leather. It’s particularly popular in accessories like handbags and shoes, offering a stylish yet sustainable option for fashion-forward Australians.
Grape leather, created from the skins, seeds, and stalks discarded during wine production, is also making waves in the fashion industry. Especially relevant to regions with strong wine industries, such as South Australia and Victoria, grape leather transforms what would otherwise be waste into a luxurious, durable fabric suitable for garments and accessories.
These materials are not only reducing the fashion industry’s reliance on petroleum-based synthetics but also offering a compelling alternative to animal-derived leather. As demand for ethical and environmentally friendly products grows, these innovative textiles are helping to reshape the future of fashion in Australia and beyond.
Top designers leading the vegan fashion movement
Leading the charge in the vegan fashion movement are designers who are not only embracing sustainable materials but also redefining what luxury and style mean in the modern era. Stella McCartney, a long-time advocate for cruelty-free fashion, has been instrumental in bringing plant-based leathers into the mainstream. Her collections frequently feature mycelium leather, showcasing its versatility in everything from structured handbags to sleek outerwear. McCartney’s commitment to sustainability resonates strongly with Australian consumers who are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their wardrobe choices.
Contemporary labels such as Jonathan Simkhai and Alice + Olivia are also making significant strides in this space. Simkhai has incorporated apple leather into his collections, using it to craft elegant silhouettes that maintain the high-end aesthetic his brand is known for. The material’s smooth texture and durability make it ideal for tailored pieces that appeal to fashion-savvy Australians looking for ethical alternatives without compromising on quality.
Alice + Olivia, known for its bold prints and feminine designs, has begun integrating grape leather into its accessory lines. This move not only supports circular fashion by repurposing wine industry by-products but also aligns with the growing demand for transparency and sustainability in fashion. The brand’s use of grape leather in clutches and belts has been particularly well received in Australian markets, where wine culture is deeply rooted and sustainability is a growing priority.
These designers are proving that ethical fashion can be both aspirational and accessible. By choosing to work with innovative faux leathers, they are setting a new standard for the industry—one that prioritises the planet and animal welfare without sacrificing style. Their influence is encouraging other brands, both established and emerging, to explore sustainable materials and rethink traditional production methods.
As more Australian consumers seek out fashion that aligns with their values, the work of these pioneering designers is not only shaping trends but also driving meaningful change across the global fashion landscape.
Sustainable style meets high fashion
As sustainable materials like mycelium, apple, and grape leather become more refined, they are increasingly being embraced by high fashion houses and luxury labels. These materials are no longer confined to niche eco-brands; they are now gracing runways and red carpets, proving that sustainability and sophistication can go hand in hand. In Australia, where fashion-forward consumers are also environmentally conscious, this shift is particularly resonant.
Designers are leveraging the unique textures and finishes of these plant-based leathers to create garments and accessories that rival their animal-based counterparts in both quality and aesthetic appeal. Mycelium leather, for example, offers a supple, suede-like feel that lends itself beautifully to structured jackets and minimalist handbags. Apple leather’s smooth surface and pliability make it ideal for sleek boots and tailored trousers, while grape leather’s rich texture adds depth to statement pieces like belts and clutches.
Australian fashion retailers are beginning to stock more of these high-end vegan pieces, responding to growing consumer demand for ethical luxury. Boutiques in Melbourne and Sydney are showcasing collections that highlight not only the craftsmanship of these items but also the story behind the materials. This narrative—of innovation, sustainability, and cruelty-free design—adds value for consumers who want their purchases to reflect their personal ethics.
Fashion events across the country, including Melbourne Fashion Week and Afterpay Australian Fashion Week, have also started to feature designers who prioritise sustainable practices. These platforms are helping to normalise the presence of faux leather made from natural sources in high fashion, encouraging more designers to experiment with these materials. The result is a broader range of styles and price points, making sustainable fashion more accessible to a wider audience.
Incorporating these materials into high fashion collections also challenges outdated perceptions that eco-friendly fashion is inherently less stylish or luxurious. On the contrary, the use of innovative faux leathers is becoming a hallmark of cutting-edge design. For Australian consumers who value both aesthetics and ethics, this evolution represents an exciting new chapter in fashion—one where looking good and doing good are no longer mutually exclusive.
- Mycelium leather is being used in structured outerwear and luxury handbags.
- Apple leather is featured in sleek footwear and tailored garments.
- Grape leather adds texture and depth to accessories like belts and wallets.
“Sustainability is no longer a trend—it’s a necessity,” says a Sydney-based fashion buyer. “Our clients are asking for pieces that reflect their values, and designers using plant-based leathers are delivering just that.”
As the line between sustainability and style continues to blur, Australia’s fashion scene is poised to become a global leader in ethical luxury. With designers and consumers alike embracing these innovative materials, the future of fashion looks not only stylish but also significantly more sustainable.
Innovative materials redefining faux leather
Faux leather is undergoing a chic transformation, thanks to a new wave of innovative materials that are as stylish as they are sustainable. Designers are now turning to unexpected sources like fungi, apples, and grape skins to craft luxe alternatives to traditional leather—without compromising on aesthetics or ethics.
Mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms, is emerging as a standout in the eco-fashion scene. It’s not only biodegradable but also offers a soft, supple texture that mimics the feel of animal leather. Apple leather, made from the waste of the juicing industry, is another game-changer—lightweight, durable, and perfect for structured handbags and sleek footwear. Meanwhile, grape leather, derived from the skins and seeds left over from winemaking, is gaining traction for its rich texture and deep, natural hues.
“These materials are redefining what luxury means in fashion,” says a Melbourne-based textile innovator. “They’re not just alternatives—they’re the future.”
For Australian designers and consumers alike, these plant-based leathers offer a compelling blend of ethics and elegance. With the fashion industry under increasing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint, these materials are proving that sustainability and style can go hand in hand.
- Mycelium leather: Soft, breathable, and compostable
- Apple leather: Lightweight, water-resistant, and ideal for accessories
- Grape leather: Durable with a luxe finish, perfect for ready-to-wear
As demand grows, these materials are becoming more accessible to Australian labels looking to align with global sustainability trends while maintaining a high-fashion edge.
Leading designers championing sustainable fashion
Stella McCartney continues to lead the charge in sustainable luxury, consistently integrating next-gen faux leathers into her collections. Her recent pieces crafted from mycelium-based leather, developed in collaboration with biotech firm Bolt Threads, have made headlines not just for their innovation but for their runway-ready appeal. McCartney’s commitment to cruelty-free fashion has long resonated with Australian consumers, who are increasingly seeking out ethical alternatives without sacrificing sophistication.
Closer to home, emerging Australian designers are also embracing the shift. Labels like A_C Official and Sans Beast are incorporating apple and grape leathers into their accessories, offering handbags and totes that are both fashion-forward and environmentally conscious. Their collections reflect a growing appetite among Aussie women for pieces that align with their values—stylish, sustainable, and smartly designed.
Internationally, Jonathan Simkhai’s recent capsule collection featured sleek silhouettes using grape leather, proving that high-end eveningwear can be both glamorous and green. Meanwhile, Alice + Olivia have introduced apple leather into their handbag line, adding a playful yet polished touch to their signature aesthetic. These designers are not just following a trend—they’re setting a new standard for what luxury fashion can look like in a post-leather world.
“We’re seeing a real shift in the mindset of both designers and consumers,” says a Sydney-based fashion buyer. “It’s no longer enough for a piece to look good—it has to do good too.”
With the Australian fashion market increasingly aligning with global sustainability goals, these pioneering designers are showing that ethical fashion isn’t a compromise—it’s a creative opportunity. Their work is inspiring a new generation of talent to explore plant-based materials and redefine what it means to be fashionable in 2024.