Mirum is a new vegan, plastic and animal free alternative to leather and an important innovation for the fashion industry. The British designer Stella McCartney paved the way for the plant material to become an independent accessory collection for the first time.
In contrast to conventional leather, Mirum is completely free of animals, plastic and cruelty to animals. The material developed by Natural Fiber Welding (NFW) consists of purely natural, plant-based ingredients and is the world’s first 100% recyclable and recyclable material that can be safely returned to the earth as a nutrient at the end of its life cycle.
Stella McCartney’s commitment to eco-friendly fashion is well known. Since founding her brand in 2001, she has consistently avoided using leather, fur, feathers or pelts. Now, with Mirum, McCartney is expanding her forward-thinking legacy with a collection that also includes the iconic Falabella and Frayme bags, continuing her mission to offer alternatives that are compassionate to animals and sustainable for the planet.
The global leather industry, which processed 1.4 billion animal hides and skins in 2020, comes at a significant environmental cost. The tanning process releases toxic chemicals and gases, while raising cattle for leather contributes to deforestation, reducing biodiversity and reducing carbon sinks.
Mirum is carefully crafted in a three-step process using bio-neutral and certified bio-based ingredients such as natural rubber, plant-based oil and pigments such as biochar and rust. Mirum manages without the use of plastics and saves water, since no tanning or additional use of water is required. Mirum’s environmental impact is significantly lower than that of conventional leather and synthetic materials, with a remarkably reduced carbon footprint.
The result is a luxurious leather alternative that is characterized by suppleness, durability, water resistance and easy cleaning. The mirum used in the Falabella bag travels from the NFW plant in Peoria, Illinois to Italy, where it is expertly handcrafted into Stella McCartney accessories. The Falabella handbag features sustainable elements such as a recycled brass chain handle, aluminum chain, zero-waste zamak medallions and a recycled polyester lining made from water bottles.
Mirum’s advent is not only a fashion statement, but also a landmark step towards a more compassionate and environmentally conscious future for the fashion industry.
This translated post previously appeared on FashionUnited.com