What is Sustainability?

Why it matters

Sustainability has become one of the most important factors for shoppers choosing fashion and accessories today. People want products that not only look beautiful but also reflect their values and have a positive impact over time. In the world of leather goods, sustainability is not just about how a product is made but also about how long it lasts and how it performs over its life cycle.

A well-made leather bag can last for decades. This longevity is one of the most significant ways a product can reduce its environmental impact. Fast-fashion items made from synthetic materials often wear out quickly and end up in landfills, while a high-quality leather bag that improves with age stays in use for many years. This reduces waste, lowers the need for frequent replacements, and supports a more circular, responsible approach to consumption.

Sustainability is also about transparency and responsibility in sourcing. Choosing natural, durable materials over synthetic alternatives reduces dependence on petroleum-based plastics and ensures products age gracefully rather than degrade. For many shoppers, investing in a long-lasting leather piece is a conscious decision to support quality over quantity — a core principle of sustainable fashion.

How it works / What it means in leather goods

Sustainability in leather craftsmanship involves several key factors: material selection, durability, design philosophy, and lifecycle impact. The most sustainable leather goods are those made from high-quality hides that are responsibly sourced and carefully processed to preserve their strength and integrity. Full-grain leather, for example, is prized for its natural durability and ability to last for decades, reducing the environmental footprint of frequent replacements.

Durability is one of the most important elements of sustainability. A bag that can be used for ten or twenty years has a far lower overall impact than one that must be replaced every year. Quality craftsmanship also plays a critical role. Bags that are well-constructed, with reinforced stitching, strong hardware, and timeless design, remain functional and relevant for longer.

Design philosophy matters too. Creating pieces that transcend seasonal trends and age beautifully aligns with sustainable values by encouraging long-term use. Natural materials like full-grain leather also develop a patina over time, becoming more attractive rather than deteriorating — a sharp contrast to synthetic materials, which often crack, peel, or degrade.

Example in Latico products

At Latico, sustainability is woven into the brand’s philosophy through a commitment to quality, longevity, and timeless design. The company uses 100% full-grain cowhide, a natural material that is valued for its durability and ability to age beautifully. Because Latico bags are built to last for decades rather than seasons, they inherently support a more sustainable lifestyle by reducing the need for frequent replacements.

The brand also avoids synthetic materials like polyurethane or faux leather, which are derived from plastics and often wear out quickly. Instead, Latico focuses on slow-fashion principles — creating pieces that are meant to be used and loved for many years. This approach aligns with sustainability by emphasizing durability, responsible material choices, and lasting design rather than short-term trends.

Common mix-ups

Sustainability vs. Eco-friendly: While the two terms are related, sustainability is broader. Eco-friendly refers to specific environmental benefits, such as reduced emissions or renewable materials. Sustainability includes those but also considers durability, product lifecycle, and responsible consumption.

Sustainability vs. Vegan: Some shoppers assume that vegan materials are automatically more sustainable. Many vegan leathers are made from petroleum-based plastics, which can have significant environmental downsides. Natural full-grain leather, while animal-derived, is often more durable and longer-lasting.

Sustainability vs. Ethical: Sustainability focuses on environmental impact and longevity, while ethical production focuses on social responsibility, such as fair labor practices. The two often overlap but are not identical.

Latico’s perspective

At Latico, sustainability is about more than just materials — it is about creating products that stand the test of time. By using premium full-grain leather and focusing on craftsmanship, we design bags that age beautifully and stay in use for decades. This reduces waste, supports responsible consumption, and offers customers lasting value.

Our commitment to quality means that every Latico bag is an investment in longevity. We believe that the most sustainable choice is one that lasts — a piece you carry for years, that becomes more beautiful with age, and that never goes out of style.