Cactus leather just got a couture upgrade. In a creative collaboration with PETA, BA Hons Fashion Design students at Northbrook College – part of Chichester Colleges Group – have crafted a bold collection using cactus-based vegan leather from Mexican start-up Desserto.
Designers are increasingly embracing plant-based leathers
This collaboration highlights the power of ethical fashion. Cactus leather has a far smaller environmental impact than animal skins and petroleum-derived synthetic leathers and spares animals from slaughter.
Cactus leather is cruelty-free, sustainable, and looks amazing
“It was such a great opportunity to work with this innovative material created from cactus. The fabric has an effective leather look but is cruelty-free. Creating a dynamic-looking outfit was possible by combining the Desserto fabric with lace inserts. I made a stage outfit for a musician and was able to fit and shape the fabric to my client’s own size. It has enhanced my knowledge of working with ethical fabric options.”
Corinne James, design student.
Cactus is one of the many plant-based leathers to take the fashion world by storm
“At Desserto, we are always thrilled to see our material inspire creativity and innovation. This work with Northbrook College exemplifies the kind of bold, sustainable design we believe in. Seeing our cactus-based leather transformed is not only exciting – it reaffirms our mission to support the next generation of conscious creators. We’re proud to have been part of this collaboration.”
Adrian Lopez Velarde, Co-Founder & Co-CEO of Desserto
We take our vegan hats off to Northbrook’s for leading the way in compassionate fashion design. Let this be a call to other institutions: vegan fashion is the future – and it looks fantastic.
Animal Skins Are Out
PETA has uncovered significant cruelty at farms that supply leather
Animals’ skin is not fabric – and it’s not ours to take. The global leather trade kills around one billion animals every year. A PETA exposé revealed calves branded with hot irons on their faces, and cows and bulls are electrocuted and beaten before being slaughtered.
Leather is also a lucrative co-product of the meat industry – one of the world’s biggest polluters and drivers of the climate crisis.
Tanneries use formaldehyde, coal-tar derivatives, cyanide-based dyes, and other dangerous chemicals, poisoning water and soil.
Vegan Leather Is In
Compassion is always in style. Thanks to innovations like cactus leather, it’s never been easier to choose cruelty-free fashion. Designers and retailers are embracing high-quality, durable, and sustainable vegan leathers.
Want to explore more? Check out these guides to help you make compassionate choices:
Your need-to-know on 13 cruelty-free, sustainable vegan leathers:
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