sustainability

The Portobello highlights Mulberry’s commitment to a sustainable legacy through its meticulous and eco-friendly sourcing, designing and manufacturing.

It’s irrefutable: the fashion industry has been one of the planet’s greatest polluters for decades. Only in recent years has the revolution for sustainable fashion picked up and thankfully, more brands are now going green. UK-based label Mulberry is doing its part with the launch of its first 100% sustainable leather bag, the Portobello Tote.

“Our starting point for this family was the ultimate everyday item, the plastic bag – functional, but throwaway. The Portobello keeps the beautiful utility of this silhouette and elevates it into an elegant tote that is practical and, more importantly, made to last,” Mulberry Creative Director Johnny Coca said of the new collection.

Inspired by Mulberry Green, the brand’s corporate social responsibility arm, the conception of the Portobello highlights Mulberry’s commitment to a sustainable legacy through its meticulous and eco-friendly sourcing, designing and manufacturing.

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When it comes to sourcing, the Portobello is crafted using Heavy Grain leather from a gold-rated tannery and is a by-product of food production. This is the highest rating for environmental compliance and performance capabilities of leather manufacturers awarded by the internationally recognised Leather Working Group. It is also proudly manufactured in Mulberry’s carbon-neutral Somerset in the UK.

In terms of design, the tote is unlined and stitched with Epic EcoVerde thread, a recycled polyester fibre. It features a streamlined body with double loop handles and a shoulder strap, allowing it to be carried over the shoulder or across the body.

While sustainable products usually come at a higher cost than the alternative, Mulberry has pledged not to pass the price on to the consumer. Instead, 100% of net proceeds from the sale of the Portobello will benefit the World Land Trust, a conservation charity that funds the creation of reserves and provides permanent protection for habitats and wildlife.

“I am delighted to oversee the creation of Mulberry’s first completely sustainable bag. Through our Mulberry Green responsibility commitments, we are continuing our innovative approach towards design and manufacturing in a conscientious way, ensuring we will provide truly luxury, truly responsible products for our customers,” said Mulberry CEO Thierry Andretta.

The Portobello Tote will be available in stores and at mulberry.com in a range of signature and seasonal shades: Black, Midnight, Chestnut, Nordic Blue, Crimson, Tangerine Orange and Mulberry Green.