Lab grown leather. Why?
Vitrolabs, a company that has discovered a tissue engineering process that can grow cowhide in a lab has just raised $46million in funding for production. This is undoubtedly amazing, but what problem is it solving?
There’s nothing like adding that unmistakable leather smell to your wardrobe in the form of a cool biker jacket or well-fitting dress, but the price of quality clothes doesn’t come cheap.
Sure, the durability of leather means it’s worth parting with your hard-earned cash, but it’s not always do-able, especially after an expensive December.
Well, it’s time we let you in on fashion’s best kept secrets.
There are savvy ways to shop for stylish pieces if you know how. From flash sales to discounted sites, here are four ways you can get the leather look for less.
THE OUTNET
Launched in 2009, the sister site of luxury e-tailer Net-a-Porter offers over 350 designer brands for up to 70 percent off. Selling end-of-season stock from some of the top labels around, including Ganni, Erdem and Isabel Marant, it has quickly become the go-to place for bagging bargain pieces. Each item shows the discounted amount and, if you search around, you’re sure to get your leather fix. It’s worth browsing its in-house label, Iris & Ink, which includes a ‘Considered Collection’ of lower-impact, recycled and organic materials, too.
BRAND ALLEY
If you love the sales, but don’t love the January rush then Brand Alley is the site for you. A members only platform – that is totally free to join, might we add – that offers daily flash sales with up to 80 percent off fashion, beauty and homeware. Buyers only buy stock according to their customers’ demands, meaning you might have to wait a little longer for that coveted wardrobe update, but it will be worth it. Time is of the essence as once an item is gone, it’s gone. So pay attention and revamp your wardrobe for less.
TK MAXX GOLD LABEL
You’re likely to be familiar with the treasure-hunt shopping experience that TK Maxx offers, but did you know about its Gold Label section? Offering incredible designer pieces from Valentino to Marni with huge discounts of up to 60 percent, it’s certainly worth having on your radar. The team behind the shopping chain are experts on negotiating prices from brands and swooping in on surplus stock, and you could just stumble across a stylish piece that will last you a lifetime. It might take a little rail rummaging, but perseverance is key. Trust us!
VESTIAIRE COLLECTIVE
The French website burst onto the scene a decade ago and has become the leading online marketplace to buy and sell pre-owned designer goods. Contribute to the circular economy and delve into the Aladdin’s cave of luxury. Providing a seamless shopping experience with its ‘must-haves’ arranged into beautifully curated edits, each piece is checked by a team of in-house experts so you are guaranteed to purchase authentic items. It launched its ‘Brand Approved’ initiative earlier this year, meaning it collaborates directly with the label rather than an individual seller. Both Alexander McQueen and Mulberry are on the roster.
By Joely Chilcott
Vitrolabs, a company that has discovered a tissue engineering process that can grow cowhide in a lab has just raised $46million in funding for production. This is undoubtedly amazing, but what problem is it solving?
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