Natural materials in leather goods : leather, raffia or rush ?

Today, artisan leather goods are booming, driven on the one hand by a growing craze for more natural and responsible alternatives, as well as a growing environmental consciousness.

In 2022, accessories made from natural materials will increase in popularity by 8%,   confirming a return to authentic, sustainable values. But which of these materials should you choose? Raffia stands out as an eco-friendly, handcrafted and versatile option. But how does it compare with other materials such as leather and rush?

Leather : noble, but controversial

Since ancient times, leather has been a material prized not only for its robustness, but also for its elegance. Used in high-end leather goods, it offers exceptional strength and a wide variety of finishes.

However, its environmental impact is often criticised, particularly because of chemical tanning and intensive livestock farming. Faced with these issues, alternatives such as vegetable leather or chrome-free tanned leather are emerging, but they are still limited on the market.

Raffia : an artisanal and ecological treasure

Derived from the leaves of the palm tree Raffia farinifera, the raffia is a soft, biodegradable and resistant plant material. It is particularly popular in crafts, especially in Madagascar, where thousands of artisans weave it with passion to create bags, baskets, hats and other accessories.

Why chose raffia ?

• Ecological : It doesn’t require trees to be felled to harvest it, and it’s entirely biodegradable.
• Artisanal and authentic : Each piece of raffia is unique, shaped by hand using skills handed down from generation to generation.
• Light and supple : Ideal for summer accessories, it offers great design freedom.
• Trendy : Its natural, textured look is increasingly appealing to committed fashion designers.

What’s more, raffia fits in perfectly with an ethical consumption approach, since by adopting it, we support local communities and reduce the fashion industry’s carbon footprint.

Rush: rigid, original and eco-responsible

Less well-known than leather or raffia, rush is an aquatic grass often used in basketry. Its stiffness allows it to be used to create accessories with a sleek, geometric design, perfect for those looking for an alternative to leather with a more pronounced structure.

However, unlike raffia, rush offers less flexibility and can be more limited in terms of shapes and styles. On the other hand, its cultivation generates no pollution and requires no chemicals, making it an environmentally-friendly choice.

Why choose raffia for your accessories ?

Whether you’re a designer looking for an innovative material or a consumer concerned about your ecological footprint, raffia is an ideal alternative.

Durability : Less resistant than leather, but properly cared for, it can last for several years.

• Eco-friendly :100% biodegradable, it generates no toxic waste.
• Versatile : Allows for a variety of creations, from bohemian chic to more sophisticated designs.

Ethical commitment: By buying raffia accessories, you are supporting local crafts and a fairer economy.