Vegan accessories that hit all the major trends for fall
These vegan-friendly picks are how you go leather-free in style
Forget cheap-looking handbags and shoes that won't last for more than a season, there are plenty of fashion brands these days offering faux-leather accessories that look and feel sumptuous, and age just as well as the real thing. London-based designer Stella McCartney, for example, is known for her dedication to using only "vegetarian leather" for her luxury label and its four-figure handbags. Plus, whether or not you're one of the small percentage of Canadians that are vegan or vegetarian, you'll appreciate that these synthetic-leather finds are, for the most part, also markedly more affordable.
The check bag
Menswear fabrics are ubiquitous this fall, particularly when styled in unexpected or head-to-toe combinations. Why not try this plaid bag with synthetic leather trim on for size?
Neverland Grey Misc. Women's Crossbody, $50, aldoshoes.com
The oversized carryall
Very oversized bags and totes, as spotted on the runways at Marni, Isabel Marant and Chanel, are an everyday must-have. Melie Bianco bags are PETA-approved, and ethically manufactured in China.
Diana Tan Large Shoulder Bag, $115.20, meliebianco.com
The cowboy boot
If you don't already have a pair of Western boots for the season, these bright red ones from Matisse are a stylish, affordable option that will look good with almost every pair of jeans in your wardrobe.
Matisse Vegan Cavalier Boot, $117.90, freepeople.com
The hands-free bag
Fanny packs and small crossbody bags are still popular, and this sleek waist bag from pioneering brand Matt & Nat can be worn both ways, depending on your outfit. The Montreal-based label doesn't use leather or other animal-based materials for their handbags, footwear or eyewear.
Park Bag in Clay, $95, mattandnat.com
The fashionable gloves
Long gloves were sported on the runways at Calvin Klein, Prada and Chanel this season, and this tall pair from ASOS can be worn above the elbow, or scrunched down to your wrists for maximum visual impact. The gathered cuff will help them stay put.
Leather Look Long Gloves, $29.46, asos.com
The animal-print shoe
Animal prints are continuing to trend, including in footwear. These faux snake print mules are not only stylish, they're also comfortable and commute-friendly.
Flat Mules, $85, gapcanada.ca
The box bag
Structured box bags are an easy way to dress up any outfit. This pretty, mauve-coloured one from Zara also happens to feature another top handbag trend: a top handle. Wear it crossbody for day, and as a hand-held purse for evening.
Crossbody Box Bag with Top Handle, $49.90, zara.com
Truc Nguyen is a Toronto-based writer, editor and stylist. Follow her at @trucnguyen.