With veganism on the rise, many people are looking to make more ethical and sustainable choices in all areas of their life. One small but impactful switch you can make is choosing vegan wallets over traditional leather options. But what exactly is a vegan wallet, and what should you look for when shopping around?

A vegan wallet is one made without any animal products, most commonly leather. Instead, vegan wallets will be constructed using synthetic materials like plastic and polyurethane or natural materials such as cork, bamboo, and even pineapple leaves (piña). Brands like Matt & Nat, Urban Expression, and Save the Duck offer stylish wallets and purses made completely vegan.

Opting for a vegan wallet is an easy way to avoid contributing to the leather industry, which has been widely criticized for its treatment of animals. Cowhide leather often comes from cattle raised for beef and dairy who are ultimately sent to slaughter. Other common leathers like lambskin, deer, ostrich, and crocodile also directly contribute to industries that exploit animals.

Beyond animal welfare considerations, vegan wallets have other advantages too. They are often cheaper than high-end leather brands, as the materials are more affordable. Synthetic vegan leathers have also improved greatly in quality and durability over the years. And for the eco-conscious, many vegan wallet materials like piña and cork are sustainably harvested.

Making the switch to a stylish and functional vegan wallet is easy. Look for chic vintage-inspired styles or more modern, minimalist designs to suit your tastes. Consider optability and organization features like interior card slots, coin pockets, divided billfolds, and phone compartments or card cases. And choose a material like synthetic leather, cork, bamboo, recycled plastic, or piña based on your priorities of style, durability, and budget.

With so many options today, there’s no need to sacrifice your values or style in choosing a wallet. Ditch the old leather and opt for a cool vegan wallet you can feel good about. You’ll be well on your way to accessorizing a more compassionate, sustainable lifestyle.