Animal-free fashion: alternatives to 21 iconic wardrobe staples
Countless undercover investigations have shown that raising, farming, and killing millions of animals for fashion every year is a devastatingly cruel industry, but giving up animal-derived fashion doesn't mean giving up the style classics you love. Plant-leather boots, cruelty-free bags, and animal-free versions of your favorite brands are easier to find than ever. We've rounded up the best alternatives to iconic fashion staples, from Dr. Martens to UGGs.
Instead of leather Dr Martens: Dr Martens 1460 Vegan Felix Lace-Up Boots
Stomp around in classic Doc Martens minus the leather with this lace-up boot made from a tough yet high-shine animal-free material. All the iconic Doc Martens features are there: the grooved sides, the yellow stitching, the heel loop. This style also comes with the air-cushioned sole that makes it such a dream to walk in. It’s oil and fat-resistant, has great abrasion resistance, and will protect from slipping. Team them with a floral dress for a grunge appeal.
Instead of Timberland: Will’s Insulated Dock Boots MK2
These waterproof faux-leather boots with a chunky sole and PrimaLoft animal-free insulation will keep you warm and comfortable in any weather conditions. Made in breathable microfiber with a thick lining made from recycled fibers, these boots will make sure you never miss leather Timberlands. Pair with leggings and a sweatshirt for a great day out, no matter the weather.
Instead of UGG boots: PAWJ Short Boot Chestnut
Do you love the snuggly warmth of an UGG boot, but hate the thought of young sheep being killed for shearling? Then look no further than PAWJ’s fully animal-free faux-shearling style. The sole is flexible and shock-absorbent, and the reinforced heel adds to the shoe’s durability. Wear with a tracksuit on those lazy Sundays when you’re just craving that extra comfort.
Instead of leather Birkenstocks: Birkenstock Sydney Vegan
All the comfort of the original Birkenstock sandals, but no animal leather. The original contoured footbed, the flexible and lightweight sole, the adjustable straps with the recognizable metal buckle - all the details you know and love from your old-school favorites are present in this cruelty-free, animal-friendly sandal available in a variety of colors. Add these to any summer outfit and you’ll never have to worry about uncomfortable sandals again.
Instead of Frye boots: Bhava Weston Classic Tall Boot
Timeless style meets quality in these faux-leather boots from animal-free footwear brand Bhava. The premium lining offers breathability while the cork padded interior adds comfort. The rounded toe and low block heel make this a classic style that will become a long-term wardrobe favorite. Pair them with a relaxed day dress and a mid-season coat.
Instead of Wolverine boots: V.GAN Arti Hiker Boot
Hiking lovers, this is one for you. Exceptional grip, stability, and durability make this high-performance shoe the perfect choice for a day on the trail. The leather-free upper is waterproof and scuff-resistant, while the outsole is designed for comfort and longevity. Wear with your hiking gear and enjoy your day exploring the great outdoors.
Instead of Red Wing boots: NAE Vegan Chelsea Boots Evie
A Chelsea boot makes getting dressed effortless - versatile and easy to match, this is a perfect daytime style. This design in recycled fibers in a rich cognac hue has a chunky sole and a soft microfiber lining. Wear this pair with jeans and a loose-fitting blouse for the maximum in off-duty cool.
Instead of Ariat cowboy boots: Will’s Western Boots
A good Western boot can take an outfit from boring to boho-chic in a matter of seconds. This pair from Will’s is made from bio-based animal-free leather in a warm chestnut hue. A block heel gives slight elevation while staying easy to wear. Pair it with a boho dress for the ultimate in cowgirl style.
Instead of fur and leather Sorel boots: Sorel Whitney III Mid Women’s Winter Boot
Sorel offers several animal-free versions of its much-loved winter boots (however, do note that glues and adhesives used in the shoe may not be animal-free). Waterproof and weather-resistant, this design will keep you warm all through winter. Team with your down-free puffer jacket and your cotton beanie and you’re ready to face the cold in cruelty-free style.
Instead of LL Bean boots: Will’s Insulated Dock Boots
Drop the leather with this lace-up boot from Will’s in breathable microfiber. Incorporating recycled materials such as recycled animal-free shearling, this style is the ideal choice for an outdoorsy weekend. Throw on your winter coat and add a wool-free scarf for a simple cold-weather ensemble
Instead of leather Converse: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Malden Street Boot
The iconic Converse Chuck Taylor All Star style is available in multiple faux-leather versions, making the perfect addition to a relaxed yet effortlessly cool outfit. Functional yet unmistakably stylish, this is one staple shoe you’ll want in your wardrobe. Wear with jeans and a denim jacket for a classic look that can’t go wrong.
Solarie Milano
Instead of leather loafers: Solari Milano Vegan Oxford
All the elegance without the cruelty and environmental destruction of leather: Italian shoe brand Solari Milano crafts sleek, formal footwear from animal-free materials. This rounded-toe lace-up style makes for the perfect complement to special-occasion looks. Wear with a suit, what else?
Instead of Canada Goose: Save the Duck Puffer Jacket Carly
No geese had to be live-plucked for this high-performance puffer from cruelty-free outerwear brand Save the Duck. Using the brand’s own filler Plumtech, this style saves 14 ducks from a life of misery in factory farming - while never compromising on style and warmth. Use this cold-weather classic to top off any winter outfit.
Instead of down-filled Patagonia: Patagonia Women’s Micro Puff Insulated Hoody Jacket
Love Patagonia’s high-tech puffers? No need to give them up to spare animals: the brand offers a range of down-free designs. This lightweight, packable style uses PrimaLoft recycled polyester filler that is kind to the environment as well as animals. Wear with jeans on those chillier days.
Instead of down-filled The North Face: The North Face Thermoball Hooded Jacket
The North Face was one of the first brands to implement down-free fillers. Their Thermoball technology mimics goose down but is more versatile - all while keeping animals safe. Packable and wind-proof, this style will become your new cold-weather go-to. Pair with leggings or track pants for a sporty day out.
Instead of wool-lined Carhartt: Carhartt Women’s OG Detroit Jacket Winter
No wool lining necessary with Carhartt’s bomber jacket in organic cotton. The corduroy collar and chest pocket create texture, and the triple-stitch detailing offers durability. An iconic casualwear garment, this jacket will lend an effortless touch to weekend looks. Just add jeans and a light knit for fall-fashion perfection.
Instead of down-filled Columbia: Columbia Women’s Idyllwood Insulated Jacket
Columbia’s down-free range is versatile and high-performing, while leaving geese and ducks in peace. Breathable and waterproof, this style features an insulation layer made with recycled polyester. The drawcord-adjustable waist allows you to personalize the fit, and the roomy pockets make handbags obsolete. Pair with a knit dress to hit that ideal intersection of fashion and functionality.
Instead of Coach bags: Marhen J Solene
Secretly dreaming of a Coach Brooklyn bag? Your dreams are about to become reality, and no cows need to die for it: Korean sustainable fashion brand Marhen J has created the ultimate dupe with Solene, a faux-leather design replicating that curved half-moon shape. Made from regenerated cellulose, this handbag adds polish to workwear as well as weekend looks. Carry it with a structured dress and boots.
Instead of Kate Spade bags: Matt and Nat Adria UPPEAL
Animal leather is a thing of the past with Canadian fashion brand Matt and Nat’s sleek range. One of the first brands to pioneer animal-free accessories, Matt and Nat are now working with apple-derived faux leather UPPEAL to create this structured style that’s a great match for daytime outfits. Use it to complement classic pants and an oversized blazer.
Instead of Michael Kors bags: Miomojo Isotta Bowler Bag
A softly rounded design meets a muted olive shade in Italian brand Miomojo’s elegant bowler style. Crafted with corn leather, this bag is spacious enough to fit all essentials, while the gold-toned detailing adds radiance. Wear with a maxi dress and sneakers.
Instead of Fossil bags: Hozen Sling Pouch Tan
Incorporating non-toxic water-based animal-free leather, this soft and slouchy cross-body will make you forget all about animal skins. It’s made ethically and locally in Los Angeles, and even the adhesives used in its production are free from animal-derived ingredients. Wear with a soft knit and wide-leg jeans.
Instead of Levi’s jeans: Nudie Jeans Wide Heidi Classic Blue
Jeans are usually free from animal materials - but some brands, such as Levi’s, sometimes feature a leather patch on the back, which can deter animal-conscious shoppers. Not so with Nudie Jeans, whose eco-conscious collection is fully leather-free. This classic style is the perfect complement to anything from an on-the-clock white blouse to a graphic tee on the weekend.
More than a billion animals are killed for their skins each year. Cows make up the largest share of the global leather trade, and many endure horrific suffering long before their skins become shoes, bags or belts. Please join Species Unite in taking the pledge to stop buying skin today.
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Plant-leather boots, cruelty-free bags, and animal-free versions of your favorite brands - see our full guide to the best cruelty-free alternatives to iconic fashion staples.