Sustainable Accessories
Fashion-forward and environmentally friendly
By Addalie Viscarra, Contributing Writer
Sustainability is growing in popularity, as newer generations become more and more aware of the environmental consequences of fast fashion. Being sustainable does not have to mean sacrificing style. Throughout my journey and research of becoming more sustainable, here are some brands I’ve found that aim to be greener while staying fashion-forward.
JW PEI
JW PEI is not talked about enough. The brand was created by husband and wife duo Yang Pei and Stephanie Li in 2016, which specializes in vegan leather handbags. To ensure the sustainability of their products, JW PEI uses fabric made from recycled plastic bottles.
With a range of unique collections, no vegan handbag is like any other. Their most popular collection, “The Gabbi Collection,” features a croissant-shaped bag with a scrunched handle that's available in a variety of colors. For being a designer brand, their products are reasonably priced, with bags that start at $89.
JW PEI has gained traction, with a feature in Vogue, In Style, Elle and more, and celebrities such as Emily Ratajkowski, Nina Dobrev and Ashley Greene spotted sporting their handbags. I purchased my own Gabbi Bag recently, and I couldn’t be more excited to flaunt it. If you’re interested in supporting JW’s purpose by buying one of their beautiful bags, you definitely won’t regret it.
CRAP Eyewear
If you’re on the hunt for a pair of sunglasses that adds a little extra something to your fit, then CRAP Eyewear takes the pedestal. This brand is one of the most unique and eccentric brands for its iconic designs, and its sustainability is the cherry on top. They make their glasses with bio acetate, a biodegradable and plant-based frame material. Additionally, they don’t use plastic for shipping.
Their products include a variety of sunglasses with different frames and colors that can accentuate any face shape. Some of the best-selling sunglasses include “The Supa Phreek,” “The Paradise Machine” and “The Full Bloom.” Solely by reading the names of some of their sunglasses, it’s clear that CRAP Eyewear wants every customer to be authentic, bold and express their individuality. Browse their website and look at the endless options of colorful bliss; you won’t be disappointed.
Tarte Cosmetics
Tarte is a cosmetic brand that focuses on makeup and skincare, and the variety of products is endless: mascara, primer, foundation, bronzer and one of my favorites, concealer. The brand uses natural ingredients like acai, Amazonian clay, maracuja and more, which supports its mission to promote clean, cruelty-free productions that are both sustainable and not dangerous for your skin.
My go-to product is the “Shape Tape Contour Concealer” because the durability and quality are hands down the best. One layer can last hours during the day and provides an even and full coverage. If you want to support a cruelty-free makeup brand while looking fierce, this is one of the best brands to support!
GLDN Jewelry
If you like customized jewelry, GLDN Jewelry is a hidden gem. This brand was created by a single mother who started small on Etsy, then it eventually took off. GLDN Jewelry focuses on customizable pieces so the customer can have a deeper connection with them. Not to mention, the majority of their materials are “recycled” and their sustainability practices leave almost zero waste in their production. Their multiple collections feature necklaces, bracelets, anklets, earrings and more. Whether you want a zodiac or constellation necklace, GLDN Jewelry has unique pieces that any customer can make sentimental.