Think small is where RLSD takes a look at some of the companies around the world that we think are doing the right thing with leather. This is a greenwashing free zone – no matter what they produce, sustainability is at the heart of what they do.
What makes your company different?
Our story is about making a positive difference in the world, by connecting producers in small communities to the global market and creating fair job opportunities. We create social impact in India, and at the same time we reduce our environmental footprint as much as we can.
Why is leather so important to you and what other materials do you use?
Research has shown that a significant part of the environmental impact of leather occurs in the manufacturing process. Therefore, it is not only the chemicals used in the tanning process that should determine how sustainable the leather is. Accordingly, water, wastewater, air emissions, and energy use are responsibly managed at our tanneries. To ensure a best practice tannery, we work with Leather Working Group (LWG) certified tanneries.
Next to leather, cotton is a material we use a lot, for the lining on the inside of our bags, the webbing straps and the dustbags. All the cotton fabric we use comes from Dibella India, an innovative organisation based in the South of India that shares our values, ensures traceability up to farmer level and also ensures that the cotton farmers receive a fair price.
What is your signature product?
Stella, is a favourite from our FW22 collection. Stella is a classic and chic bag that will accompany your city exploring by day and take you out for martinis by night. Just swap the casual checkered webbing strap for the full leather strap. The long flap, magnetic closure, outlined stitching, as well as its bold silhouette, gives Stella a 70’s inspired look.
What do O My Bag say?
Ensuring the longevity and durability of our bags is critical in our design process. At the same time, we always strive toward choosing sustainable, low-impact materials.
What does RLSD say?
O My Bag’s products really let the leather do the talking. The beauty of the natural, durable material is the highlight of all of the designs.
Find out more here.
Josslyn Shi from California College of Art has been crowned Overall Winner of the Real Leather. Stay Different. International Student Design Competition at a glittering final event held at the U.S. Embassy in London.
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Meet 24 year old Yu ChiKit, this year's gold winner of the Student Design competition: Accessory Category. Don't forget to watch the video!
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