Simply The Best Vegan Leather Bags and Accessories. Our Materials Make The Difference

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Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about Doshi? Want to know more about what we make, how it's made, and why it's a good choice? We get asked about this a lot, so we thought we would round up some of the most common questions we get about vegans, vegan leather, and our designer bags and accessories. You can visit our blog for more in-depth coverage of each ofthese questions, but if you're looking for a quick overview, you can browse this page.

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about veganism, vegan leather, and our vegan leather bags and accessories.

What is veganism?

Veganism is the practice of abstaining from the use of animal products - across diet, fashion, and general lifestyle. It’s a philosophy that values animal life, wishes to prevent animal suffering, and absolutely rejects the “commodity” status of animals. Dietary vegans do not eat meat, eggs, dairy products and other animal-derived substances. Many vegans refuse to use leather or other animal-derived clothing, bags, belts, wallets and more. 

Plant-based alternatives - in diet and fashion - are the preferred products for vegans because of this philosophy.

Why go vegan?

Veganism is a lifestyle choice and people have their own reasons for choosing to go vegan. In general, veganism is for people that understand and value animal life enough to no longer support industries and establishments that include animals in their production. 

For someone that wants to oppose factory farming and the high-pollution leather industry, veganism is a way to do so. Veganism is a statement you are making to the world. It’s also a lifestyle alternative that can even open up new paths of health and wellness. Given that plant-based food and clothing are often more nutrient-rich and sustainable, vegan consumer choices can also lead to a happier and altogether healthier life.

What does vegan leather mean? What is vegan leather made of?

Vegan leather (also called faux leather, fake leather, or synthetic leather) consists of many different synthetic or organic materials that act as an alternative to real leather. Without the use of any animal products, vegan leather is constructed to mirror the look and feel of real leather, without the downsides.

Vegan leather has historically been made from synthetic materials such as vinyl and polyurethane (PU), or organic materials like pineapple fibers. Doshi utilizes the highest grade of synthetic PU microfibers within our products, from our bags to belts to backpacks. They all feel like leather, but don’t utilize any animal parts in their construction.

What does vegan leather feel like?

Vegan leather uses materials that mimic the look and feel of leather. This means that vegan leather feels just like real leather. Smooth yet strong, the texture of leather is maintained through complex and more eco-friendly methods of manufacture.

The polyurethane topcoat used in Doshi’s own products means that our bags can feature a number of different textures. These include smooth, pebbled, cross-grain, and waxed - all variations of the leather composition.

Is vegan leather just vinyl/plastic/fabric/etc.?

Vegan leather can be made from a variety of materials, including synthetic materials like vinyl and polyurethane (PU) or organic ones like pineapple fibers. Newer, cutting-edge vegan leather materials include Pinatex (nonwoven material made from pineapple biowaste), Mycelium (Mushroom Leather), and Kraft Paper - all of which are organic and non-synthetic.

Vegan leather can be constructed from all kinds of materials, each with different textures and processes. Their commonality comes in not using any animals in their manufacturing and being more ecologically friendly than their true leather counterparts.

Why vegan leather?

Being vegan is all about choices. In diet and fashion, it’s about forgoing animal cruelty and pursuing ecologically-friendly consumer choices. When you surround your life with healthy choices, such as vegan products and a plant-based diet, you signal to the world that you care about the world - and yourself!

How can you produce vegan leather?

Vegan leather is produced by professionals in laboratories and in factories that utilize sustainable supply lines of plant-based and synthetic alternatives. We help produce vegan leather by partnering with the right professionals that utilize the best materials and sustainable processing. 

Will vegan leather peel?

Vegan leather carries some of the same characteristics of traditional leather, by design, such as the texture and feel. However, due to its different production materials it is less likely to peel in the same way. Like with any product exposed to consistent usage, vegan leather will still experience wear and tear. 

Will vegan leather stretch?

Yes, vegan leather has a similar texture and stretchiness to traditional leather. As a result, vegan leather is capable of stretching and flexing to fit into your pockets or bag.

Is vegan leather waterproof?

Vegan leather is more water-resistant than waterproof. Depending on the materials and build, some vegan leather is more resistant to water than others, but all vegan leather is more resistant to staining and damage from water than animal leather.

Is vegan leather durable?

Yes, vegan leather is quite durable. Due to its careful plant-based construction and design with strong synthetic materials, vegan leather will last for years even with consistent use. 

How long does vegan leather last?

Vegan leather is capable of lasting for years, just like the best leather wallets or belts would. Vegan leather’s construction allows for it to be used on a consistent basis and still last for years more of use.

How do you clean vegan leather?

You can clean vegan leather the same way you should normal leather or other clothing. You can use very gentle soap and water on a rag, or just a clean wipe or microfiber cloth to brush off the surface.