Style With SUbstance S2 Episode 3: The Truth About Vegan Leather

All Images: Mashu

Veganism is a popular way to live sustainably, but do you know what your vegan leather is made from? We speak to Mashu founder Ioanna to find out the truth about vegan leather.

Series Two, Episode Three

The Truth About Vegan Leather Ioanna Topouzoglou Mashu Style With Substance Podcast

What Is Vegan Leather

Did you know that vegan leather is usually made of PU, which is polyurethane, which is made from oil? The majority of vegan leather you will find on the high street especially is made of PU. Having oil products that close to your skin is a little worrying right? However there are some exciting new innovative plant based textiles that are fabulous faux leather substitutes. Fabrics like Pinatex are made from food waste so not only is it natural, it is zero waste too. 

The Truth About Vegan Leather Ioanna Topouzoglou Mashu Style With Substance Podcast

An Eco Alternative To Leather

We originally came across Mashu at London Fashion Week and couldn’t believe that these cool, sculptural bags were made from eco friendly materials. Mashu’s Founder Ioanna is passionate about creating really good quality leather substitutes for vegans and people who want an eco alternative to leather. The brand is manufactured in her native Greece and she uses all sorts of interesting materials to try to be as close to zero waste as possible. In this conversation she tells us about the cons of real leather production and tanning and why she believes that plant based textiles are the future for accessories brands.

With thanks to our wonderful guest

Ioanna Topouzoglou

Series Credits 

Host Lucy Kebbell 

Theme created by Joe Murgatroyd 

The Truth About Vegan Leather Ioanna Topouzoglou Mashu Style With Substance Podcast