Cork Purses - Earth and Animal Friendly 'Leather'
Posted in Accessories, Entertainment, Fashion, Green Products
Cork harvesting has been a way of life in Mediterranean Europe for at least 1000 years. The ancient cork forests stretch along the southern Mediterranean coast from Italy to Portugal with individual cork trees living up to 600 years. Cork harvesting is one of the planet's best examples of a sustainable agro-forestry system where people conserve their natural resources, without disturbing or destroying the environment.
The bark of the cork tree is harvested from the tree without injury. A mature cork tree can have its cork bark harvested every nine years, regenerating itself with no harm to the tree.
You may know cork for its use in win bottle stoppers, but have you ever considered cork purses? Cork Design carries some of the most unique bags I've seen, made from cork. Water and fire-resistant, the cork purses have a feeling similar to nubuck suede, but are cruelty-free. They're super lightweight, as well.
My personal favorite purse is the Toggle - I received mine in the tiger pattern. To say it is adorable is an understatement, even my husband loves it. This particular purse has a zip pocket on the inside, as well as a cellphone pocket.
I took the purse with me when we went to visit family in CT. My mom loved it, she had to keep rubbing it because she loved how soft it feels. Even my brother thought it was cool. I did get caught in the rain with it a couple of times, and, despite the water-resistant claim, I was worried it would suffer water stains or leak. It didn't do either, and still looks brand new.
Cork Design's purses range in price from $35 for the change purse and $95-$185 for all other purses. Don't let the prices discourage you - these purses definitely give you that feeling that they will last for a long time to come. I'm not the most gentle person when it comes to clothing and accessories, and I've had mine for about 2 months now, and it still looks brand new! If you knew me, you'd understand why that means a lot.
Cork Design also carries other products created from cork - placemats, belts, aprons, wallets, ties, and more.
9 Responses
1
Missy
July 29th, 2009 at 12:15 pm
Hey, Stephanie:
Those are awesome looking! I swear just about any material can be turned into something "pretty" and "chic".
We just need to get into the hands of awesome designers.
Cork is here! (and it looks good)
Cheers,
Missy
2
Natural Rugs
July 29th, 2009 at 5:45 pm
Its about time the fashion industry should be aware of the natural alternative with their "thing." Renewable resources like the cork should be patronized and used properly.
3
Cork Purses Are Here! (And They’re Cute) | Keetsa Mattress Store – Keetsa! Blog – Eco-Friendly and Green News
July 29th, 2009 at 8:15 pm
[...] via Focus Organic [...]
4
Bilety lotnicze
July 30th, 2009 at 3:26 am
The first time I saw it, I was like: God, definately not. But the longer I look at it, the nicer it gets.. - With the right outfit it could be lovely - ie the model with the white dress and hat make it look very natural. Something very nice for hot summers and vacation trips on an exotic island
. Though the prices do seem a little steep IMO.
5
Alexandra Ploiesti
July 30th, 2009 at 4:39 am
This is a brilliant idea, very environmentally friendly, i am going to buy one now.
6
wyposazenie hoteli
July 30th, 2009 at 5:50 am
This does not seem like a good idea. I mean cork? it sounds kinda pointless.
7
Stefanie
July 30th, 2009 at 6:51 pm
Missy, I saw some purses once made out of tires! Yep, pretty much anything can make something attractive if you want!
Natural Rugs, I've seen a lot of eco products in the fashion industry lately - from first time use materials like cork to recycled materials.
Bilety, you'd be surprised how many outfits these purses look good with! Yes, the prices seem a little high, but considering you probably won't have to purchase another purse for years, it works itself out.
Alexandra, I know you'll love it!
Wyposazenzie, how is it pointless? It's a sustainable way to make an attractive accessory. Much better, to me at least, than a leather purse.
8
Wilson Pon
July 31st, 2009 at 2:00 am
Stefanie, it's a very nice designed and sophisticated purse. The great thing about this cork purse is it totally environmental friendly!
9
Green Life 3.0
August 3rd, 2009 at 4:51 pm
When Green Living become more popular, the eco fashion will be the trend for the next years. Eco friendly outfits have great designs. It's time to use the resources more naturally and make more earth friendly designs without letting go the fashion style.