The world of fashion is continuously evolving and with the rise of environmentally conscious and cruelty-free fashion choices, terms like vegan leather and faux leather are often used interchangeably. While both are favored by sustainably-minded shoppers, you may be wondering what the difference is. That's why in this guide, we'll compare non-animal-derived leather options so you know what you are investing in with each purchase.
At its core, vegan leather is an alternative to traditional leather that doesn’t use animal products. When considering what vegan leather is made of, it can be a variety of materials, from polyurethane, mushroom, pineapple leaves (Piñatex), apple peels, to many more. Brands like Ming Wang, dedicated to offering timeless and cruelty-free looks, often use vegan leather in their designs. People often pit "vegan leather vs real leather" in debates—while genuine leather comes from animal hides, vegan leather provides a similar aesthetic without ethical concerns. The big question many have is, "Is vegan leather durable?" The answer is yes, especially when it's well-crafted and maintained.
Essentially, faux leather is synonymous with synthetic leather. The term "faux" translates to "fake", so when we break it down, it's fake leather. Regarding what faux leather is made of, it's typically derived from synthetic materials like polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyurethane (PU). If you’re wondering how to clean faux leather, it's relatively easy with a damp cloth and mild detergent, but always check the care label!
They may seem interchangeable, but the distinction is more in the terminology's implications. Vegan leather emphasizes the ethical choice of avoiding animal products. In contrast, faux leather indicates a material that mimics the look and feel of genuine leather without necessarily emphasizing its ethical attributes. However, in most modern contexts, they denote the same thing: cruelty-free leather alternatives.
"Pleather" is a term that was coined by merging "plastic" and "leather." It usually refers to leather made from plastic materials, making it a subset of faux leather. It’s another popular alternative to genuine leather.
At Ming Wang, we empower you to combine effortlessly timeless elegance with a commitment to more sustainable practices. Whether you’re a dedicated style enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of sustainable fashion, understanding the nuances between vegan leather and faux leather can help. Both are excellent options for those who wish to marry style with ethical and cruelty-free choices.
