What Is Vegan Leather?

Vegan leather is a material designed to resemble traditional animal leather without using animal hides. It can be made from synthetic materials, such as polyurethane (PU), or from other materials, including plant-derived alternatives. The look, feel, durability, and environmental impact vary depending on how each material is made.

From Joy Susan’s perspective, ignorance isn't bliss. When it comes to the things we purchase—items we touch, carry, wear and, interact with each day—knowing what they're made of helps us make informed purchasing choices.

Why Joy Susan chose vegan leather

We believe vegan leather is fashion with a conscience. That’s why we ultimately use it as our material of choice, and why we hope you will, too. But we also love the material for its appearance, versatility, color options, and freedom from animal-derived leather.

Vegan leather can be made in many colors, textures, and finishes. As you browse our vegan leather products, you’ll find several color options for every style. Compare that to traditional leather, where the natural grain and texture can vary. For every product in Joy Susan’s collection, what you see is what you get.

Our products can be finished with an eye-catching sparkle or a glossy sheen, and can be saturated in a range of colors that put leather to shame. So, if you’ve got a favorite shade, Joy Susan likely has it—we’ve been able to generate polyurethane-based products in almost 100 different colors.

So what is vegan leather and is it durable?

Joy Susan’s vegan leather bags are made of 100% pure polyurethane, a synthetic material with no animal products or by-products whatsoever. It’s a material we’re experienced in working with, and when compared to other artificial leather options, polyurethane’s rich texture and versatility give it the edge.

Some other vegan leathers incorporate fibrous hides in an attempt to simulate a more leather-like feel. At Joy Susan, we never do this, and we never have to. Because with expert design and careful attention to detail, it’s difficult to tell our bags from genuine leather.

When it comes to versatility, our polyurethane products are built to last. Depending on use and proper care practices, you can expect to enjoy Joy Susan’s vegan leather accessories for a long time.

How do I clean vegan leather products?

Keeping your Joy Susan bag in tip-top shape is easy. Minor marks and smudges can be wiped with a baby wipe or wet cloth. You can also spot clean the surface as needed using lukewarm water and a mild soap or detergent. Stains can also be removed using rubbing alcohol, although we recommend testing this on an inconspicuous area of the bag first.

Why vegan leather? Because ethical fashion is smart fashion.

Our vegan leather handbags and clutches will look good on you, and they’ll also make you feel good about your cruelty-free fashion decision. So get shopping—Joy Susan has a wide selection of exclusive options you’ll love.