You don’t buy high quality leather, you invest in it
Why high-quality leather goods are a better investment than fast fashion?
The disposed fast fashion in the Atacama desert, Chile. As customers, we are part responsible for this
Fast fashion has become a major problem in recent years. The industry's rapid production and consumption of cheap, disposable clothing and accessories have led to a range of environmental and ethical concerns. DW, the German broadcasting company, made an interesting documentary on this which you can watch here. But investing in high-quality leather goods is a great alternative to fast fashion.
Here are some reasons why:
Durability and Cost-Effectiveness
A classic example of longevity
This is a 44 year old messenger bag (2023) made in Australia. The owner of bag, Roxana, told me her friend who made the bag has passed away but the bag remains pristine after regular usage. This bag is made of cow hide and you can see the beautiful patina formation. I was in a 8 hour train journey with this bag, most of the time, I either kept feeling the texture, smelling the leather or just admiring the beauty of the piece.
High-quality leather goods are designed to last for years, if not decades. Leather is a durable material that can withstand wear and tear, making it an ideal choice for frequently used items such as bags, wallets, and shoes. Although high-quality leather goods might be more expensive than their fast fashion counterparts, they are more cost-effective in the long run. They don't wear out easily and don't need to be replaced as often, which ultimately saves consumers money.
Carbon footprint reduction is not only through manufacturing, but it also entails how waste is treated, how transportation is done, how long the products last etc.
The production of fast fashion has a significant impact on the environment. According to the United Nations, the fashion industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions and 20% of wastewater. In contrast, investing in high-quality leather goods is a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly choice. Leather is a natural, biodegradable material that can be recycled, repurposed, and reused. Furthermore, some companies that produce high-quality leather goods have implemented sustainable practices in their production processes. For instance, some use vegetable-tanned leather, which is a more sustainable and Eco-friendly alternative to traditional tanning methods that use harmful chemicals. Vegetable tanning uses natural materials such as bark, leaves, and roots to create a more environmentally-friendly leather product.
Economic Benefits
Leather craft is over 7000 years old. Artisans fall in love with the craft honing skills overtime.
Investing in high-quality leather goods also has economic benefits. Many high-quality leather goods are produced by skilled artisans who have honed their craft over years or even decades. By investing in their products, consumers can support these artisans and their local communities.
In addition, investing in high-quality leather goods supports the economy by promoting local businesses and reducing dependence on foreign imports. The production of leather goods can create jobs in local communities and contribute to the growth of the economy.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
The benefits of investing in high-quality leather goods over fast fashion options are evident in the numbers. Before we slide into numbers consider the poster below :
The data:
According to the Leather Working Group, the global leather goods market was valued at USD 414.92 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2021 to 2028.
The fashion industry produces around 92 million tons of textile waste each year, according to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
The average American throws away 70 pounds of clothing and other textiles each year, according to the Council for Textile Recycling.
The fashion industry is responsible for 92 million tons of solid waste per year, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
The leather industry has a lower environmental impact than other materials commonly used in fashion, such as polyester, nylon, and cotton, according to a study by the Danish Environmental Protection Agency.
Conclusion
Investing in high-quality leather goods is a smart choice for consumers who value durability, sustainability, and ethical production practices. These products are cost-effective in the long run, environmentally-friendly, and support local artisans and the economy. The numbers speak for themselves, and they show that high-quality leather goods are a better investment than fast fashion options. So, if you're looking for a long-lasting and sustainable addition to your wardrobe, consider investing in high-quality leather goods.
Thanks for your time.
