What is vegan leather, and why choose a cruelty-free handbag?
Vegan leather (also called faux or synthetic leather) means no animal products are used. We use high‑quality polyurethane that mimics the look and feel of real leather—soft, durable, and luxurious. Choosing a cruelty‑free vegan leather handbag means fewer animal welfare concerns, lower environmental impact, and a sustainable alternative to animal hide.
How are Canopy Verde handbags and purses eco-friendly and sustainable?
We design our sustainable handbags using materials like vegan leather and GOTS‑certified organic cotton. Our organic cotton avoids toxic pesticides and fertilizers, and our GOTS‑approved dyes ensure eco‑friendly, low‑toxicity processing. We’ve partnered with a woman‑owned factory—run by a longtime colleague from Fila—since the beginning.
Here at the Canopy Verde office, minimizing waste is practiced everyday. At the design stage, we try to create patterns that generate the smallest amount of wasted fabric and we reuse materials in our prototypes that would have been destined for landfills. We also recycle, compost, and minimize energy usage.
What are the benefits of organic cotton?
Organic cotton is grown without harmful chemicals and uses farming methods that support soil health, cleaner air, and safer water. In eco friendly handbags and totes, it feels softer, reduces toxic exposure, and offers a more sustainable footprint. With organic cotton + vegan leather, your bag becomes both stylish and a mindful fashion choice.
What’s wrong with conventional fabric dyes?
Unfortunately, the dyes that typically make garments a vivid red or bright yellow are some of the biggest culprits when it comes to polluting water sources. Conventional dyes use chemicals and toxins that often find their way into local rivers and lakes.
The organic cotton we use has been treated with eco friendly dyes, as certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), a recognized standard for textile safety. To pass the GOTS certification, dyes are required to meet rigorous standards of metal content, toxicity, and biodegradability. Using eco friendly dyes minimizes our carbon footprint in the manufacturing process.
Where are Canopy Verde handbags made?
Our handbags are made in China, partnering with a woman‑owned factory (my former colleague from Fila) where we share a focus on ethical production. While “Made in China” sometimes raises concerns, we diligently choose manufacturing partners who use sustainable materials, fair labor practices, and energy‑aware processes.
Another reason for choosing China is a personal one. Founder Linda Wong was raised in Taiwan, worked in Hong Kong, and has family in China. The opportunity to help promote quality business practices and green sourcing options in China is personally significant.
Why do eco-friendly handbags cost more?
Eco-friendly handbags cost more because of the higher expense of materials like organic cotton, vegan leather, and certified dyes. There’s often more labor, lower waste, and more thoughtful design. When you purchase sustainable handbags, you’re investing not just in gorgeous design but in ethical production, environmental responsibility, and quality craftsmanship.
How is Canopy Verde involved in the community?
We donate handbags to various causes, from the YWCA’s Purses for Passion in Minnesota to Habilitat in Hawaii. We donate product to school auctions in Brooklyn, where Canopy Verde is based, including PS 321, PS 107, PS 39, and the Assembly of Arts and Letters.
What shipping options do you offer?
Shipping in the US is free with $99 purchase. Purchases under $99 range from $2.50 – $4.50 depending on the weight of the item. We use United States Postal Service and FedEx Ground.
If you need expedited shipping, please select Express Shipping for 1-2 day delivery. Express shipping ranges from $25 to $35.
We currently ship to a number of countries around the world using United States Postal Service.
The rate varies depending on package weight and destination.
Canada – $9 – $25
Australia – $14 – $29
Asia –$14 – $29
We currently do not ship to Europe. For orders to Europe, please visit our Etsy Shop.
We want you to love your new bag! We want you (and any gift recipient) to be happy with your purchase. As long as the item is returned un-used within 30 days, we are happy to provide a refund of the purchase price (minus shipping and credit card processing fees). Please email bags@canopyverde.com.
Where can I buy previous season’s styles?
We are only showcasing our new collection on www.canopyverde.com, but you can go to our Etsy Shop for styles from previous seasons.
What does the interior of a Canopy Verde bag look like?
Most of our handbags (except smallest styles) include two open pockets for essentials like phone or sunglasses, plus one zippered pocket for valuables. Medium and larger styles—totes, weekenders, or travel bags—often feature one or two external pockets too. We use our signature orange lining in every bag to help you find items quickly—no more digging in the dark.
Are Canopy Verde handbags water resistant?
Yes — our vegan leather handbags are water‑resistant and can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. Canvas styles, while durable, need gentler care. Light moisture is okay; avoid prolonged exposure or heavy downpours to keep the look and shape intact.
How do I care for my Canopy Verde handbag?
To clean canvas surfaces, use a soft brush, mild detergent, and water. For vegan leather, wipe gently with a damp cloth. Don’t submerge the bag or use harsh cleaners. For tougher stains like chocolate, try rubbing alcohol on a soft cloth, dab gently. You can also use a fabric protector spray like Scotchgard for extra protection on the canvas.
Yes, please email bags@canopyverde.com for more information.