Eco-Friendly & Ethical Designer Crossbody Bag Brands You Should Know

Sustainable fashion is more than a trend—it’s a growing movement. Many people now want to make better choices for the planet, even when it comes to luxury items. That includes choosing designer crossbody bags made by brands that care about the environment and ethical production.

If you’re looking for a stylish crossbody bag that’s also kind to the Earth, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the best eco-friendly and ethical designer brands making beautiful, high-quality crossbody bags using sustainable practices.

Why Choose Eco-Friendly and Ethical Bags?

Before we dive into the brands, let’s look at why making this switch matters.

Better for the Environment

Sustainable brands use recycled materials, plant-based leather, and eco-friendly dyes. This reduces waste, pollution, and carbon emissions.

Fair Labor Practices

Ethical fashion means workers are paid fairly and work in safe, healthy conditions. Choosing such brands supports people, not just profits.

Long-Lasting Quality

Sustainable bags are made to last, which means less waste. You’ll also find timeless styles that never go out of fashion.

Choosing wisely helps the planet—and lets you feel good about your style.

What to Look For in Sustainable Designer Bags

Not sure how to spot an ethical or eco-friendly brand? Here’s what to check:

• Materials: Look for recycled fabrics, vegan leather, organic cotton, or plant-based leather (like cactus or apple leather).

• Certifications: B Corp, GOTS, Fair Trade, and PETA certifications add credibility.

• Transparency: Ethical brands share how their products are made and who makes them.

• Packaging: Eco-friendly brands often use recyclable or minimal packaging.

Top Eco-Friendly Designer Brands Making Crossbody Bags

Now, let’s look at the most stylish and responsible designer brands you should know about.

1. Stella McCartney

Pioneer in luxury vegan fashion

Stella McCartney is one of the first high-end designers to fully embrace cruelty-free and sustainable fashion. Her brand is 100% vegetarian—no leather or fur.

Why it’s eco-friendly:

• Uses alternative leathers made from plant-based and recycled materials

• Transparent supply chain and eco-friendly production

• Ethical manufacturing and circular design principles

Best pick: Falabella Mini Crossbody – sleek, iconic, and animal-free.

2. Matt & Nat

Affordable luxury that’s 100% vegan

Short for “Material and Nature,” Matt & Nat creates vegan bags from recycled bottles, rubber, and cork. Their minimalist crossbody bags are perfect for everyday use.

Why it’s eco-friendly:

• Uses 100% recycled lining

• Vegan materials like PU and recycled PVC

• Fair labor policies and ethical manufacturing in India

Best pick: Bee Vegan Crossbody – compact, stylish, and sustainable.

3. JW Pei

Trendy and cruelty-free bags loved by celebrities

JW Pei is a modern designer brand that mixes bold styles with vegan materials. Known for its unique shapes and colors, it offers both fashion and sustainability.

Why it’s eco-friendly:

• Uses recycled plastic bottles and vegan leather

• Transparent supply chain

• Minimal packaging with recyclable materials

Best pick: Eva Shoulder Crossbody – fun, Instagram-worthy, and made from recycled bottles.

4. Angela Roi

Luxury meets compassion

Angela Roi designs high-end vegan leather bags with a classic, elegant feel. Each piece is handcrafted and made to last, with attention to both style and ethics.

Why it’s eco-friendly:

• Premium vegan leather with no animal products

• Handmade by skilled artisans in ethical factories

• Partners with animal welfare organizations

Best pick: Cher Mini Crossbody – timeless design and perfect size.

5. Pixie Mood

Fashion-forward and eco-conscious

Pixie Mood creates playful, modern bags using vegan leather and recycled materials. Their crossbody bags are both functional and fun, great for work or weekend wear.

Why it’s eco-friendly:

• Uses recycled plastic lining and low-impact materials

• Cruelty-free and certified vegan

• Offers full transparency in production

Best pick: Bubbly Mini Crossbody – lightweight, colorful, and guilt-free.

6. Mashu

Chic and sustainably crafted in the UK

Mashu is a lesser-known luxury brand creating beautifully structured bags using innovative vegan materials. They combine unique shapes with eco ethics.

Why it’s eco-friendly:

• Uses Piñatex (pineapple leather), cactus leather, and recycled wood

• Made in small workshops with ethical labor

• Carbon-neutral and low-waste production

Best pick: The Halo Mini Bag – a conversation starter made with plant-based leather.

7. Marici

Elegant designs using plant-based silk and leather

Marici is a luxury British brand known for its high-quality bags made from Ahimsa silk and bio-based leather. Their aesthetic is refined and sophisticated.

Why it’s eco-friendly:

• Vegan-friendly materials like apple leather

• Zero-waste production techniques

• Made by artisans in Italy with fair practices

Best pick: Compact Crossbody in Apple Leather – refined style with a clean conscience.

8. Sans Beast

Bold design and responsible values

This Australian brand is known for its edgy vegan bags. Sans Beast makes strong fashion statements while being 100% cruelty-free.

Why it’s eco-friendly:

• PETA-certified vegan

• Recycled packaging and low-impact materials

• Supports animal welfare organizations

Best pick: Reader Satchel – bold, boxy, and completely vegan.

How to Care for Vegan and Eco-Friendly Bags

While these bags are durable, a little care can make them last even longer.

• Wipe clean with a damp cloth—avoid harsh chemicals.

• Don’t overload them to keep their shape.

• Store in dust bags or in cool, dry places.

• Keep away from direct heat and sunlight for long periods.

FAQs: Eco-Friendly Crossbody Bags

Are vegan bags as durable as leather?

Yes! Many plant-based and recycled materials are just as strong and long-lasting—sometimes even more resistant to stains and weather.

Do ethical brands cost more?

Not always. Some ethical designer bags are priced like traditional luxury items, but others—like JW Pei or Matt & Nat—are quite affordable.

Can sustainable bags still be stylish?

Absolutely. These brands prove that you don’t have to give up fashion for sustainability.

Final Thoughts

Your crossbody bag can be more than just stylish—it can also support a better world. Whether you’re going for a sleek vegan leather mini or a bold recycled-material satchel, there are so many ways to combine fashion and values.

By choosing from these eco-friendly and ethical designer brands, you’re investing in something that looks good, feels good, and does good for the planet. So next time you shop for a crossbody bag, choose one that speaks to your style—and your values.